By Stephen Propst
Staying motivated about your recovery can be tough, but we have some tips on how to stay focused!
I’ve lived with bipolar disorder for a quarter of a century now. There was a time when I believed that successfully managing my mood swings was impossible. But, over the years, I learned I could move beyond my diagnosis and rediscover a full, meaningful life.
Is a similar, mistaken mind-set holding you back? It’s time to start removing those mental barriers! Here are 20 ideas to help transform your thinking. Let’s get you started moving forward by first having you look back …
1) Review your past
Life is a learning experience. Where you’ve been before helps provide direction for where you’re headed next.
2) Reenvision your future
Changing your thinking can help turn dreams into reality. Picture now what you want to achieve down the line.
3) Reconnect with yourself
The true you is still there. Take time to re-embrace your humanity, dignity, and self-worth.
4) Reclaim your personality
Don’t let a set of symptoms strip away your personality. Never let your diagnosis define you.
5) Release grudges
Nursing a grudge can cause your brain and body to respond as if under stress. Be willing to forgive and move on.
6) Rebuild relationships
Call an old friend or send a note to a family member. Strengthening your circle of support bolsters recovery.
7) Recall past victories
When was the last time you acknowledged feeling “normal”? Often, we’re quick to dwell on the tough times yet slow to remember the good.
8) Regenerate your hope
Don’t underestimate the power of hoping for a better tomorrow. That expectation has kept me going during my darkest times.
9) Reeducate yourself and others
Attend conferences and avail yourself of online resources. The power of knowledge can not be put in a pill!
10) Reach out and help someone else
Small acts of altruism can lift your spirits and fulfill your soul. Volunteering builds self-esteem and enriches life.
11) Redesign your wellness plan
Are you working with the right professionals and developing effective coping skills? A “well”-designed recovery plan is crucial.
12) Retool your treatment plan
Is it time to make a change? Getting a second opinion or working with your psychiatrist to find a better medication might be the answer.
13) Rethink your timing
There are no quick fixes and no miracle cures. Consistently and comprehensively controlling bipolar over time is the answer.
14) Reduce fear and anxiety
Keeping emotions bottled up retards recovery and saps stamina. Find constructive ways to air feelings and share concerns.
15) Record your sleep patterns
Document and discuss sleep cycles with your doctor. Shut-eye fluctuations greatly impact mood stability.
16) Recommit to getting fit
It pays to mind both brain and body. Daily exercise, healthy eating, and annual physicals are fundamental to overall well-being.
17) Retrain your brain
Rocky relationships, destructive thoughts, and unhealthy routines can all sabotage recovery. Seeking therapy, controlling stress, and avoiding triggers all help manage mind and mood for the better.
18) Refrain from negative self-talk
I spent years in therapy focusing on what I was saying to myself. I eventually learned that lightening up on self-defeating language reaps positive results!
19) Redirect your anger
Anger, while a legitimate emotion, should be dealt with constructively, perhaps in therapy. Avoid bottling it up or taking it out on others. Never let anyone—including yourself— convince you that having a rich and rewarding life is not entirely possible.
20) Remember your triggers
For me, hot temperatures and hot-tempered people are major triggers. Stay clear of conditions and situations that mess with your mood.
Attitude makes all the difference. Never let anyone—including yourself—convince you that having a rich and rewarding life is not entirely possible. You can rekindle your hopes and reclaim your dreams. Start recharging your recovery, beginning today!
Used by permission.