This too shall pass

Changes in our life can be tough to cope with, whatever form they take. Psychotherapist Julia Samuel shares her guide for not only surviving but thriving in difficult times.

- Julia Samuel

It is clear that talking and reflecting while we are in a phase of change is key if we are to fulfill our potential and thrive. It is important that we take a holistic approach and become aware of how everything we choose to do, or not do, has an impact. The 8 Pillars of Strength is a framework to find the attitudes, the ways of being and the good habits that will help build our strength to manage the highs and lows throughout our lives.

I cannot state strongly enough how important it is for each of us to develop our own toolbox of support, to find our own particular way of doing this. It requires work to build the pillars, and commitment to keep going. They work best as an integrated whole. You choose which ones are key for you.

1 Relationship with Oneself

The relationship with oneself is the pillar that influences every other relationship in our life and is central to our wellbeing. We need to be aware of what is going on inside us and accept who we find ourselves to be. A good guide is to be as kind and respectful to ourselves as we would be to a good friend.

What helps: There may be many different conflicting and confusing messages going on in our mind. A useful way to find out what we are thinking is to write a journal. Writing down the competing messages, and what we are feeling, enables us to begin to clarify what is going on inside us and gives us the information to ensure we find the right support. Journalling is a well-researched source of self-support that has been shown to be as effective as therapy. Perhaps do this before or after the relaxation exercise in the Mindbody pillar.