097 How to rebound from discouragement

Feeling down? That’s not unusual, especially in the new year. In this episode, we talk about how to rebound from discouragement.

This week’s Inspire Me quote is from Neal A. Maxwell:

“Discouragement is not the absence of adequacy but the absence of courage.”

The start of a new year can prompt discouragement. Whether the discouragement is inspired by resolutions, reflections, or realizations, there are some key truths that, when we remember them, can help. Discouragement:

• Is natural.
• Is temporary.
• Is not the problem.
• Points to a loss.
• Is overcome by confidence.

Quotes from the show:

• “Circumstances change and you do, too. The key is, how do we grow in our resilience to circumstance.” —Leary
• “The problem is, for most of us… we think our circumstances indicate something about our value. …In some ways, that’s shame-based thinking.” —Leary
• “I often think, when I’m discouraged, that I need to fix my discouragement. And that isn’t the thing that needs to get fixed. What needs to get fixed is the understanding—what that’s leading to. Discouragement is like the dashboard indicator going off—the check engine light—saying, ‘There’s something wrong inside. Take a look.'” —Leary
• “Gaining courage comes from understanding something about the reason for your discouragement. Discouragement itself isn’t the problem; discouragement is the pointer that something underneath is going on.” —Leary
• “We tend to believe in the zero-sum game: if somebody else is winning, we are losing. That isn’t anywhere near truth. In fact, the truth is, when we can practice gratitude, for even somebody else’s win, we win—because it transforms our thinking and it reminds us that it’s not permanent… and there have been many blessings we have received along the way.” —Leary
• “[Discouragement] is overcome by confidence—confidence in God and not in yourself.” —Leary
• “‘A man who always stays on his hands and knees in prayer can’t fall a very long distance. If you stay there, no matter what you deal with, your fall is short.'” —Armin quoting his pastor

This week’s Challenge Me:

Pick one of the quick pick-me-ups below and do it:

Resources mentioned in or related to this podcast that may be helpful to you:

• Episode 45: “Ten habits to create a lifestyle of gratitude.”
• BoldIdea Workshops in Denver, San Francisco, and Minneapolis.