Life happens and it happens quickly. No matter how much we plan and prepare, we can never predict how things will end up. When it rains, it pours, and it may even flood!! Still, we have to put on our cute rain boots and look forward to the rainbow!

When it feels like things are going all wrong, here are four positive things to remember:

1. Trouble don’t last always! There is no way around the hurdles that are in our path, but eventually the hurdles get lower and then disappear (for a while). Remember change will come and overtime things will improve! Eventually you will get a better job. Eventually you will get out of debt. Eventually your life can and will get better! During times like this it is important to manage your stress. Exercise, meditate, watch a funny movie, or put on your favorite playlist. Also make time to talk to your good friends, sometimes they will remind you of other times you’ve survived challenging times!

2. Lessons are learned during these times! Tough times really show what you are made of and what you can handle. Sometimes these rough periods are as a result of bad decisions made, and we learn what NOT to do! Sometimes the tough periods force us to look at things from a different perspective. Take a minute to think about what you have learned (or will learn) as a result from a difficult time. Short on money? Learn how to coupon! Lost a job? You have free time to explore a hobby or learn something new. You may have to cut the cable and slow down on extra-curricular activities, but use that time for self-improvement. Life is constantly teaching us lessons, pause and think about what you can learn!

3. Things could be worse! Despite all of the things that are going wrong, there are still reasons to be grateful. Focus on what you do have and what you can do! You still have your health, despite your financial troubles. Have health issues, maybe you have a good support system around you. Recent break-up or lost a loved one, be thankful you had a chance to experience love-some never do. It doesn’t make it all better, but it is a step in the right direction. Someone once told me, throw your problems in a pile with everyone else’s and you’ll gladly take yours back!

4. You still have goals! A bump in the road slows you down, but it doesn’t stop your journey. Even if there is bump after bump, it is still possible to keep moving forward. Will it take longer? Maybe. Will you have to get creative about reaching your goal? Maybe. If your goal seems too far off, set a smaller goal related to the bigger goal. Finding time for our interest is a good way to not only reduce stress but to also ensures your goals don’t fall by the wayside.

Feministas, how do you stay positive when the road gets rough? What tips do you have for staying positive when the struggle seems like it will never end?

[info_box type=”alert_box”]Caring for yourself including takes care of your finances.  I encourage all ladies who are serious about self-care to go on The Happy Finances Challenge. In 42 days you can learn to make money decisions that will lead to long-term financial happiness.  [/info_box]