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As Eckhart Tolle often says, you have a life. Everything else, your worries, all your experienced sufferings are simply your life's situation. 

How we see our life and our situation can color how we live and experience life. It is sometimes hard to imagine that no matter what, we are the author of our own stories: As a palliative care physician and certified life coach, let me help remind you that if things can go wrong, they can also go right. 

Join me in my podcast as we visit people's lives and stories of how we can make our own life a great one, one chapter at a time. 

Write Your Best Chapter is a podcast about life, death and everything in between. 

http://www.drfaryal.com

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  2. "Why Me?"

"Why Me?"

Jun 9, 2023

When you find yourself thinking "why me?" and experiencing negative thoughts or emotions, it's important to manage your mind and shift your perspective. Here are some strategies that can help:

  1. Recognize and accept your emotions: It's normal to feel frustrated, upset, or overwhelmed when faced with challenging situations. Allow yourself to acknowledge and accept these emotions without judgment. It's okay to feel what you're feeling.

  2. Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Instead of being self-critical, offer yourself words of encouragement and support. Remind yourself that everyone faces difficulties at times, and it's not a reflection of your worth or capabilities.

  3. Challenge negative thoughts: Question the validity of your "why me?" thoughts. Understand that life is full of ups and downs, and unfortunate events can happen to anyone. Ask yourself if there is any evidence to support the belief that you are singled out for misfortune. Often, you'll find that this belief is based on a biased perception.

  4. Reframe the situation: Try to reframe the situation in a more positive or realistic light. Look for any potential silver linings, lessons, or growth opportunities that may arise from the experience. Focus on what you can learn and how you can become stronger through the challenges you face.

  5. Practice gratitude: Cultivating a gratitude mindset can help shift your focus from negativity to positivity. Take a moment to reflect on the things in your life that you are grateful for, even amidst difficult circumstances. This can help you develop a more balanced perspective.

  6. Seek support: Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or a therapist to talk about your feelings and gain a fresh perspective. Sharing your thoughts and concerns with someone who can offer support can be incredibly helpful.

  7. Take care of yourself: Engage in activities that promote self-care and well-being. This can include exercise, spending time in nature, practicing mindfulness or meditation, journaling, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy. Taking care of your physical and mental health can positively impact your mindset.

Remember that managing your mind takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself and give yourself permission to experience the emotions that arise. With time, you can develop a more resilient mindset and navigate through challenging situations with greater ease.