Navigating Tough Times, Ruts, and Funks

Have you ever found yourself feeling down even though nothing seems particularly wrong? Maybe you're facing a challenging situation, or perhaps you're stuck in a phase where life just feels dull, like you've lost your spark and aren’t sure how to reignite it.

If you’re nodding along, know that you’re not alone. I’ve been through it too, and I’m here to tell you that you will get through it. It takes time, but the discomfort is temporary, and there is a way forward. But how exactly do you get there?

Acceptance

The first step to healing and moving forward is acceptance. To truly move through difficult emotions, we need to first acknowledge them. It’s okay—and completely normal—to feel what you’re feeling. Whether you’re feeling off, sad, anxious, or even resentful, your emotions are valid. Sometimes, I’ve found myself upset for feeling a certain way, frustrated that I couldn’t just let go and move on. But I’ve learned that trying to suppress those feelings only makes them linger longer.

The key is to recognize and accept your emotions. Identify what you’re feeling, understand why, and remind yourself that it’s okay. We’re human, after all—we feel things deeply. Emotions like jealousy or resentment are natural, even if they’re uncomfortable. Often, these feelings stem from insecurities or a lack of self-love. Many times, the journey through a hard time is actually about discovering new levels of self-love.

Allow Yourself to Feel

Once you’ve accepted your emotions, the next step is to feel them. Give yourself permission to experience your emotions, whether it’s for a day or just a moment. I’ve noticed that the more I allow myself to truly feel, the less time I spend feeling down. As you get to know yourself better, you’ll start recognizing your emotional patterns. I used to distract myself with old coping mechanisms, like hanging out with people, scrolling through social media, or binge-watching my favorite shows. These aren’t bad activities in themselves, but when used as distractions to avoid emotions, they can be counterproductive.

Now, I prefer to sit with myself in stillness—no phone, no distractions. I breathe deeply, with my hands over my heart, focusing on the present. I take time to ask myself what I’m feeling and why. Sometimes, I even reflect on past experiences that may have triggered these emotions. I reassure myself that it’s okay to feel this way and allow myself to cry if needed. This practice of acknowledging and feeling my emotions has helped me move through tough times with greater ease.

Talk to Someone

There’s immense value in talking to someone. If you’re not comfortable sharing your feelings with another person, journaling can be just as therapeutic. Expressing your emotions, whether through words or writing, can help clear your mind. Talking to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist can also provide much-needed support. However, be mindful of whom you confide in. Friends and family can be biased, and they may hold on to what you share, so it’s sometimes better to talk to a therapist who won’t judge you for how you’re feeling in the moment.

Therapy is also a great option if you’re dealing with unhealthy coping mechanisms. A therapist can provide tools to help you process your emotions and navigate difficult times. Remember that your friends and family have their own emotional limits, so be thoughtful about when and how you lean on them.

Cultivate Healthier Coping Mechanisms

Once you’ve spent time with yourself and possibly shared your feelings, it’s important to shift your focus toward the things that bring you joy. Identify the activities that fill your heart and make time for them. Whether it’s a favorite hobby, a walk in nature, or cooking a healthy meal, integrating these moments of joy into your routine can make a significant difference.

Make self-care a regular part of your life. If you haven’t treated yourself to a spa day in a while and it’s something you enjoy, schedule one—even if it’s a DIY spa day at home. If working out lifts your spirits, make it a priority. The more you incorporate activities that truly fulfill you, the better you’ll feel over time.

Positive Self-Talk

Finally, how you talk to yourself matters. Negative self-talk can be incredibly damaging, even if it feels justified in the moment. Instead, practice replacing those negative thoughts with positive affirmations. If positive statements feel out of reach, start with something more achievable, like “I am learning to love myself” or “I am making progress every day.” These words are often easier to believe and can still have a powerful impact on your mindset.

The journey through tough times can be difficult, but by accepting your emotions, allowing yourself to feel, seeking support, adopting healthier coping mechanisms, and practicing positive self-talk, you can navigate through the storm and come out stronger on the other side.