One way we can heal and effectively move forward is by taking up a cause that has particular importance to us. Maybe this means going back to school for a degree in the mental health field, maybe it means becoming a life coach or starting a social media empire designed to spread awareness and give hope to fellow survivors.
Maybe this just means we start doing things we never had time for before because we were too consumed with negativity to give positive energy to others. Maybe be become more involved in the kids’ school activities, in writing, in speaking, in our church. Maybe the cause you choose is simply something that has always interested you, and you finally vow to yourself to pursue it. There are so many interpretations for what constitutes “a cause,” and this will mean something different to everyone.
Pursue what is meaningful to you.
Don’t be suckered into taking up activities that are too draining or time-consuming. Or, be forced to take up anyone else’s cause. Everyone is different – we all march to the beat of our own drum. You’ll still need to maintain balance in order to stay at peace.
You might choose to pursue something for a short period of time, then switch to something new. Or, you may find that doing something definitive is enough to get over this proverbial hump and make it to the other side. Or, the journey can be lifelong.
The amount of time you commit to is entirely up to you.
When we make a pledge to better ourselves, we evolve. It may not be overnight, but every time we become determined to take a new direction, we will likely feel a sense of calm overcome us, eventually, simply because we are making a decision that we’re happy about…of our own accord.
Again, it’s incredibly important to not overextend and to allow yourself enough time daily for self-reflection. It’s also important to internalize what you’ve learned, and what you’ll continue to learn and to understand that the learning process is lifelong and ever-evolving. Make sure you save space for the optimism and gratitude you’ve come to realize is important to carry with you at all times. Looking sight of this will only wield you right back to where you started.
When we’ve reached a certain part of the journey, we have to ensure we don’t retreat back to the emotional state we’ve left behind. To go back to the same place we were at prior to making a commitment to healing would be toxic.
So, whatever the endeavor you choose, make sure it’s meaningful enough to fill you up and not suck the life out of you. If you find it’s too much, stop. It’s that simple. But, taking on a cause that makes you feel fulfilled can be a powerful tool in the recovery journey.