Negativity

Why Bother With Acceptance?

August 15, 2012 by Donna Marie

An unknown author once wrote that absolutely nothing happens in our world by mistake. Understanding this, recognizing it as a simple truth of life, can be an incredibly liberating step on the path to acceptance.

Simply put, acceptance is the ability to give in to the reality of a situation, without attempting to alter it. Typically, the concept of acceptance is associated with something difficult or uncomfortable, whether it is an occurrence external to ourselves, or the most important acceptance of all: self-acceptance.

Whether one is struggling to accept some event that has transpired or an aspect of their personal life, a crucial first step to happiness is embracing life on life’s terms.

Essentially, acceptance means that one cannot resist or struggle, but also, one cannot merely tolerate. Acceptance requires a removal of negativity and resistance. When you truly accept something, you believe it is the appropriate circumstance.

Self-acceptance, for example, emerges when we accept every aspect of our individual selves, unconditionally. This means acknowledging limitations and imperfections as inherent and necessary.

Five Important Ways to Deal with Stress in the New Year

January 18, 2010 by Donna Marie

Are you feeling like stress has taken over your life? Do you have too much on your plate or too many tasks that need completing? Does it sometimes seem a bit overwhelming? Relax! There are many easy and simple ways to deal with stress.

Here are five ways you can banish overwhelming stress from your life! The first thing you need to do is take a look at your surroundings. Many people find that they have unknowingly surrounded themselves with people or things that bring added stress to their lives without even knowing it!

If you have a friend whose life problems are always bringing you down, or a family member that places too many burdens on you on a regular basis, your first action may be to limit your interactions with them. Instead choose to surround yourself with other people who bring positive energy to the table!

Next, remember to be mindful at all times. Take some time every day to check in with yourself about the great things that are going to happen during the upcoming day and to be thankful for the blessings you do have in your life. In such a fast paced world it’s easy to focus on things that might weigh on us or bring us down. It is sometimes an after thought to focus on the things that may bring us up.

Your next challenge while dealing with stress is to stop your judgment of others (and yourself.) By judging other people we simply bring harsh words and negativity into our environment, which does not do any good for anyone!

Next up is a tough one for many. It is important to learn how to say no. For the “people-pleasers” out there, this is one written especially for you. When you are in a situation where someone is trying to have you take on more then you believe you can handle – summon up your courage and say “no” to them. You’ll find that this becomes easier the more you practice this skill. Many people will respect you more if you graciously decline to take something on, rather than taking on more than you can chew at the present moment.

The last item on the short list of how to deal with stress, is to make sure to have a time and a space just for you. Find a comfy chair or a sunlit porch or a park where you can relax. Take the time to breathe and allow your body to relax. Many people practice meditation, listen to music that relaxes them, or practice deep breathing for 20 minutes at a time.

Once you begin taking some time for yourself every day, you will find a reduction in your stress levels almost immediately! If you begin these daily steps to deal with stress, you will find yourself on your way to a better, more relaxing daily life.