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HOW TO FIND PURPOSE IN THE MIDST OF DEPRESSION

Purpose:

The definition:

  1. The reason for which something exists or is done, made, used, etc.

  2. An intended or desired result; end; aim; goal.

  3. Determination; resoluteness.

Synonyms:

Function, expectation, direction, aspiration.

 

The word purpose has positive undertone to it when you look at its meanings. Depression, on the other hand, is steeped in negativity. I’ve been there and maybe you have too. In today’s society, it’s easy to find a lot of things to nitpick at, including yourself. I put together a quick list of tips to help you pick yourself up when you’re struggling with depression, but first I want to assure you that dealing with this feeling is something that you must do daily. You must unpack your feelings of insecurity and lack and be transparent with yourself before you can truly break ground.

 

LOST

I wanted to empower you with this first tip because if you’re like me, you’ve been guilty of getting lost in the wrong things when you find yourself in state of depression. I might spend more time than necessary being consumed by social media, reading news stories that create an unnecessary feeling of worry, or even binge watching Living Single reruns while eating junk food. Your way of dealing with depression is probably different, but we are similar in a way. We are both in need of something substantial. Lately, I’ve found peace in getting lost in the Bible. There’s a calm in His Word that brings me back to childhood, where concerns were simple and measurable.

“My grace is sufficient for thee: my power is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Wherefore I take pleasure in weaknesses, in injuries, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then I AM STRONG.” II Corinthians 12:9-10

Your perceived weaknesses must not be misinterpreted. When you feel like you are at your weakest, that is when God is doing his work!

LIST

This is a challenging step because it requires honesty and maybe a little bit of tooting your own horn. As women, we must grow comfortable with setting goals and accomplishing them. When you feel that sadness creeping in, don’t be afraid to think about those goals and the feelings that invigorated you when you reached those milestones! Now that you’re thinking about it, what was the reason you took that first step toward achieving that goal anyway? Does your “why” still exist or do you need a new one?

 

INSPIRE

Here’s another insightful exercise. Think about who you know that looks up to you and think about why. I bet your nieces and younger cousins admire you for more reasons than you know. If they are old enough to understand the question, ask them how you have inspired them. Consider your professional relationships. I’m certain you bring something unique and wonderful to your workplace; do you know what it is? If you don’t know, ask someone with who you have a good rapport. Ask your significant other, your parents, siblings, and close friends; finding out who you’ve motivated is a wholesome pick-you-up. Give it a try!

ASPIRE

You’ve begun doing some introspective work, so what’s next? Phone a friend and find out what they’re up to, then ask them to include you, of course! Wow, your BFF is headed to a women’s empowerment event and you’ve got nothing planned? Sounds like you might need to be there with her!

There’s power in doing something new. Who knows who you might meet or what creativity you may spark? It takes courage to make changes, but when you’re ready, there won’t be anyone who can stand in your way. Except for you.

 

Your accomplishments matter, your thoughts are powerful, and your attitude is adjustable. Do your best to dismiss things that subtract from your joy because energy isn’t just what you gain when you sleep; it’s all around you. Cultivate your environment so you can graduate to your next level, Queen.

What settles your spirit when depression strikes? Please share your best practices in the comments, ladies!

 

(Depression is very serious. If needed please seek medical help that can help you deal and overcome)

 

Jeannelle “Jean” Lundy

@thefitfreshmom

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