During trying times, an individual who embodies determination will learn to overcome adversity, therefore not succumbing to oppressive forces, and evolve into a progressive mindset.
It is universally regarded that difficult and trying times are destined to arise, as the world and thus our lives are not a euphoria. In demanding times, these negative forces can end up dictating an individual’s life; provided they give into the “darkness” which represents all the complications and problems causing an individual to abandon hope. This forces them into a more discouraged mindset, which takes attention away from optimistic factors present in their life.
In contrast, an individual who does not allow oppressive forces, during difficult times, to rule their mentality, will figure out how to overcome the adversity, and gain a mindset more focused towards the positives in life. Therefore, allowing for a greater sense of appreciation and ability to grow both physically and mentally.
A determined individual is one who carries a strong moral compass. They obtain a want for resolve, going through trials and tribulations to achieve their desires. Individual’s are not born with this characteristic; it is something embodied through experiencing external forces in life. Through experience and wisdom, one can learn that when faced with obstacles or difficulties, action can be taken to resolve it. There is no straight path towards the future, but rather an individual must forge their own unique path. Hence, giving the opportunity to overcome difficult situations and manifest their own destiny.
At times, I would find myself getting caught up in the negatives present in my life, such as my health, which is represented by the red on the black branches in my visual. By doing this, it caused me to act more pessimistic, and start to be dragged down by my fear of the unknown.
Several months ago, I was enveloped in a mentality focused on the idea that my life had been taken from me. After being diagnosed with two chronic illnesses, I was unable to participate in any of my extracurricular sports, and my performance in school fell. All the characteristics that had made me who I was, were taken in an instant. My views on life became distorted, and I started focusing primarily on self-pity and loathe.
In recent months, I have stayed more concentrated on the positives in my life. After enduring reality for what it had become, and finally accepting it, I was able to bring myself into a healthier mindset. I became truly grateful for everyone and everything in my life that took the time to help and believe in me. This has allowed me to gain a greater sense of appreciation for family and friends, and the tasks I accomplished before I was diagnosed. I knew that while I could not change my condition, I could change my mentality towards it. This idea has made me more determined to get healthy, as well as stay more positive to improve the mood of those around me, and most importantly, myself.
Regardless of age or experience, it is easy to get caught up in the moment and forget about past and future goals when in difficult times. In doing so, and feeling as though life will not get better, it will discourage any room for growth. Everyone has the opportunity to see the light in situations, but they must first gain the confidence and determination to break free from the chains of their own self loathe, and into a place of freedom.
Image references
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Halliday, K., 2018. Positive Psychology In Difficult Times – The Positive Psychology People. [online] The Positive Psychology People. Available at: <https://www.thepositivepsychologypeople.com/positive-psychology-difficult-times/> [Accessed 19 February 2022].
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