Why do some people thrive under pressure while others can’t seem to hold it together? What is the difference between a healthy mind and one weighed down by life’s challenges? As we learned last week, pressure builds. If we fail to deal with it in a healthy way, it will come spewing out in the most unfortunate places.
While one size certainly doesn’t fit all when it comes to brain health, I believe one of the keys to a healthy mind is knowing how to cope with life’s ups and downs.
What if the key to maintaining a healthy mind is not about luck or avoiding challenging circumstances or situations?
Admittedly, learning healthy coping skills will take a lot of work. It’s a lot easier to mindlessly scroll through social media and zone out while watching YouTube or Netflix. When life gets tough, we tend to withdraw from relationships, events, or activities rather than choose the healthier alternative. The unhealthy coping skills require less from us and are easier to learn, but ultimately, they lead us down the wrong path.
Are you drifting?
We naturally drift towards the unhealthy. We won’t accidentally end up with a healthy mind wondering, “How did I get here?” If we want something different, we must put in the work. We must intentionally develop healthy coping skills over time to help us address the challenges that come our way.
“But Craig, sometimes I struggle to get going.” I need a word of encouragement. I get that. I need that as well.
If we look at 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, we see that “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”
If you feel overwhelmed, heavy, or struggling to get going, I get it.
It’s easy to get bogged down by the weight of this world.
Maybe it is time to develop a new healthy copy skill. It could be time to share your stress or problem with a trusted friend. Perhaps it is time to start fresh, eat healthy, and practice good nutrition. How about learning relaxation methods or practicing mindfulness?
Are you missing that trusted friend? Do you need a support system, a word of encouragement, or better yet, a community? This is precisely why the Overflow Community exists. Not a member of the community? Tap the button below 👇 to receive your free invitation.
