September 22nd was the best day so far in 2022. At precisely 9:04 PM EDT, the earth’s equinox was experienced by everyone simultaneously worldwide marking the start of the autumn season in the northern hemisphere. As the days become shorter, the leaves will soon start to turn from green to vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. But the autumn season also means the holidays are just around the corner. And if you are like me, the quickly approaching holidays can be a morale buster.
For this week’s blog, I want to talk about morale. I am sure you have heard this said at your workplace, especially from a manager.
“We have got to find ways to boost morale around here.”
In my blog last week, I opined about the upcoming changing of the seasons and the inevitable gloominess some will begin to feel. So instead of workplace morale, let’s focus on our own personal morale. Let’s talk about some ways to boost your own morale and perhaps find some ways to improve your mental health in the process.
4. Bless Someone Who is in Need
Helping someone in need can and typically does result in you yourself being blessed. Though our goal should never be to receive a blessing, the feeling one receives knowing that someone’s life truly is a blessing.
And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners to be repaid in full. But love your enemies, do what is good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is gracious to the ungrateful and evil. Be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. John 6:34-36 (HCSB)
Here at Outer Banks, there are plenty of opportunities all along this sandbar. And with time being our most valuable asset, you can help others even if your finances are low. Places like the Beach Food Pantry or your local Crisis Pregnancy Center — one which chooses life — are great places to volunteer. So get out there and volunteer your time. Check around in your local area for opportunities during this holiday season. I promise that you will be a blessing to someone and your spirits may also receive a boost as a result.
3. Get Out and Socialize
Every day we wake up and start over again the mundanity of life. One way to combat our humdrum life is to take a break from the daily routine. As the weather is cooling off, grab a light jacket and go for a walk. But better yet, grab some friends and go on an adventure with them. Here on the OBX that could be as simple as climbing a lighthouse or climbing Jockey’s Ridge for the 100th time. If mobility is an issue, perhaps a movie night will work.
My wife and I will be starting again our weekly movie night with a couple who live in Southern Shores. We laugh and then we cry but the important thing is to get out and get away from the rut of our routine-driven lives.
2. Do Not Overcommit
The pastors and elders at our church insist upon everyone who is serving to attend at least one of the two worship services we have on Sunday mornings. This is one of the many reasons why I love my church as I tend to jump in and try to be involved in everything and over-commit myself.
Though I am speaking of the time spent in service and worship at a church, the same can easily be related to any other aspect of our life. Overcommitting inevitably leads to stress and anxiety. And for someone already struggling with anxiety, adding more stress is the last thing you want.
So when making commitments this holiday season, be mindful of your most valuable asset — time! As I alluded to above, I have made the mistake of overcommitting many times which led to unnecessary burnout, stress, and anxiety. Do not make the same mistake and overcommit this holiday season. Be realistic about what you can and cannot do. Be honest with everyone and yourself. It is okay to say no.
1. Avoid Negativity
A few weeks back I wrote a blog titled trying to stay positive in a world full of negativity. In that post, the focus was on avoiding people who always exude negativity. But in closing this week’s blog, let’s focus a little on the inward negativity we inflict on ourselves.
God created us with very powerful minds. And with our minds, we are able to create vivid and imaginative thoughts and feelings both good and bad. However, all it really takes for negativity to creep into our psyche is one disparaging social media post or one politically motivated news story on TV. And of course, being around people who seemingly are always negative can cause huge degradation in mental health.
Trying really hard not to sound like Joel Osteen, but there is some truth to his babble. Though his theology is badly mistaken, spreading good thoughts over bad ones can indeed be helpful to someone who is suffering from depression. There is still good to be found in the world. And though this may seem difficult at times, avoid negativity and instead strive to seek out the goodness around you.
So instead of mindlessly watching the evening news or some TV series that insists on shoving politics in our faces, try reading an inspiring blog such as mine. There are also some YouTube creators who share quality content on a daily basis. Stop the madness. Turn off the TV News. Back away from social media and read my blog.
The world is changing so my question to you is how are you going to avoid negativity this week?
How are you going to avoid negativity?
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If you made it this far, please consider commenting below, subscribing, and also sharing on your social media sites. Most importantly, I ask for your prayers. I write this weekly blog as an outlet in my fight against depression. However, my hope is that something I write here may help others who may be struggling. If you would like to help with my battle against depression, check out my online Etsy store and affiliate links. Most proceeds are donated to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
If you or someone you know may be contemplating suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or by dialing 988. You may also text HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line. In emergencies, call 911, or seek care from a local hospital or mental health provider.