Striving for inner strength and resiliency is important when we have a loved one in the military. Inspired by the one who’s serving is often a help as we cope with life in their absence.
But if we’re not careful, our thoughts can also be our worst enemy. Negative thinking can sap our strength. To fight that tendency, try embracing these 8 positive thoughts each day:
1) I am loved by God, no matter what.
We all mess up. But there’s nothing we can do to make God love us less. He’s always there with open arms, waiting for us to return.
2) I cannot always control what happens, but I can control how I react to it.
I will stop looking back at the things I cannot change and instead look forward to the things I can.
3) I am worthy.
We must quit seeing ourselves in a negative light and, instead, focus on the positives about ourselves.
4) I will focus on what matters in my life, and let the rest drop away.
This means I will quit trying to live up to someone else’s expectations of everything I should be doing. Don’t let others set our priorities.
5) I will take time every morning for myself.
For me, this means quiet time with God. That’s the biggest thing I can do for me. When I let life crowd out that time, my day suffers and so do those I interact with.
6) I will remember to be thankful.
There is so much in our lives that’s good. The only reason we miss it is because we’re spending too much time focusing on the parts that aren’t.
7) I will choose forgiveness.
Carrying a grudge is hard work. By choosing to forgive, the burden lifts.
8) I will put relationships above things.
Whether it’s things to do, things to have, or any other type of things, those will no longer be my priority. Instead, I will spend my time on people, on being with them.
This isn’t a magic formula, but just like daily exercise, this way of thinking makes me a stronger person. I’ve learned—the hard way—that it’s just as important to keep my mind and spirit in shape as it is my body.
