We always want what’s best for our loved ones. But sometimes, especially when things aren’t going so well in their lives, you find yourself struggling to see the brighter things in your own life.
Don’t be fooled – just because people around you might be in a slump, this doesn’t mean that you are too. Even though we celebrate our friends’ successes, we don’t have to experience their sadness. Showing empathy doesn’t mean you must mirror someone else’s emotions. Rather, it is the emotional maturity to understand what someone else is going through with the ability to know how this interacts – or perhaps, more importantly, doesn’t interact – with your own emotions.
Follow these tips to ensure you are able to put yourself first and remain happy even when those in your life are not.
You are not responsible for someone else’s happiness
It sounds a lot easier than it is, but once you accept this, you will find the worry and stress you have over other people slowly melt away. Just as you are entitled to experience happiness, others are entitled to go through a range of other, less joyous emotions. It’s a part of life. It’s not your responsibility to fix someone, so stop trying.
Don’t take on someone else’s burden
How can you take care of others if you’re not taking care of yourself? By taking on the unhappy moods of those around you, you are not only harming yourself, but you are putting yourself in a position that means you will be less effective at providing them with support and advice. Instead, focus on your own happiness and try not to obsess over the problems of others. If you are compelled to help, then ask them outright – what is the best thing I can do to help you?
Practice mindfulness
Once you have learnt how to enjoy your life as your own, it is important to remember that just because you are enjoying the metaphorical sunshine doesn’t mean that others are. Be mindful of what might be seen as disrespectful or upsetting to others. If someone were in mourning, you wouldn’t run up to them with stories about how happy you are. There is a time and place for everything, and being mindful of not only yourself but also of others around you will ensure everyone can enjoy their happiness in their own time.
If you want to learn more about how to practice mindfulness and take care of your emotional well-being, contact me today to discuss whether emotional freedom therapy, hypnosis or meditation might help you.
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