What could be easier than telling someone to be more resilient? Just bounce on back, better than before!
Man up, dude!
But the fact is, trauma hits everyone differently and recovery is a process.
While we are enduring this “situation”, you’ve heard all the experts talk about what you need to do to stay strong, to be more resilient and it all sounds so freakin’ easy, right?
Well, maybe not…respect yourself enough to not beat yourself up if you’re just not feelin’ it.
Here’s a suggestion:
Fix your thinking on your objective (i.e. to regain your strength, energy or focus).
Consider how you’re feeling now (do a scan of what’s gnawing at you—give it a name).
Set out a plan for recovery (speak to someone you trust: therapist, clergy, family, friend, etc.).
Make small efforts and recognize yourself for your attempts.
If you find yourself falling back, get help. There’s nothing “manly” about depression, despair or distress.
We are all in our own space, in our heads and bodies. We are all built differently with our ability to handle stress and problems for which we lack the tools.
The act of “man-ing up” is not an exercise in being an idiot, it’s a call for rational behavior in light of facts and circumstances.
Be good to yourself!
