8 Things To Do When You're Feeling Discouraged

Are you feeling discouraged because your new job or relationship isn't going according to plan? Or maybe you've hit a slump at home and feel down about your latest setback? Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed or stuck in a rut?

Whether you want to change careers, break up with someone, get over a breakup or simply bounce back from a bad day, there is always something within us that stops us from achieving our goals. Struggling with life events or other issues seems to get worse over time. Sometimes, we can’t seem to change anything around us. And we wonder why things continue to go wrong.

Here are 8 simple steps to help you move beyond setbacks and get back on track.

1. Be patient

If you feel discouraged before trying something new, just remember that everything takes practice. You don't have to accomplish things immediately or perfectly at first. Every time you try something new you'll eventually get better. If you're working hard on a project but not seeing results, try re-assessing what you're doing. Sometimes if we give ourselves a little extra time to work on a problem, the solution becomes clearer.

2. Take Calculated risk and Let yourself fail

Whenever possible, weigh the pros and cons of a risky decision and determine whether or not it really benefits you. Even if you are discouraged because it seems difficult or you are likely to fail, sometimes taking a risk can pay off big dividends in the end. Remember that failure doesn’t always mean you did anything wrong. Oftentimes, our expectations of success are unrealistic. That's okay! We learn a lot from our mistakes, and those mistakes often lead to successes later down the road. So if you've failed at something, make sure you use that experience to help you succeed in future endeavors.

3. Think creatively

Many times, we limit our ideas by thinking we need to follow the rules set out by others. When you find yourself feeling stuck, think about what would happen if you were able to break free from those boundaries.

4. Find inspiration

Inspiration can come from many different places. Observe the world around you and notice what inspires you. Seek inspiration from your family, friends, teachers, and coaches.

5. Use humor

Humor helps you deal with problems and situations that make you feel discouraged. Just remember, it should always be short and sweet. Long-winded jokes won't endear you to anyone. Try telling a funny story instead.

6. Think positively

We often think negatively, especially when faced with challenges. However, if we focus on the possible outcomes of a situation, rather than the negative reality, we'll likely come up with some creative solutions. One study found that people who were asked to imagine the best outcome to a given scenario had higher levels of motivation than those who imagined the worst outcome.

7. Remember the power of prayer

Many people believe that God answers prayers when he deems it necessary. Even if you don't believe in God, you still have faith - believing in something bigger than yourself. Prayer is said to be a powerful tool in times of trouble. Make a habit of praying no matter what.

8. Relax

Our minds are constantly thinking about the future or worrying about the past, but relaxing can put us back in the present moment and reduce anxiety. Practicing mindfulness has proven to be effective, as it trains your brain to focus on the here and now, instead of dwelling on the past or future. Meditation, yoga, and deep relaxation all help to relax the body and mind. Whatever method you choose, do it regularly and notice improvements in your mindset.

Setbacks are only temporary. When you hit a roadblock, don't let it consume you. Just get started again and find a solution. Your situation might look dire, but it won't last forever. You'll get back on track eventually. Always remember to appreciate what you already have. Whether you're feeling discouraged because you failed at something, or maybe because you haven't done anything yet, know that you have more good stuff than bad. And that's worth celebrating!

What are your tips for overcoming discouragement? Let me know in the comments below.