Hope is described as an optimistic state of mind that is based on an expectation of positive outcomes for events and circumstances in one’s life or the world at large. Hope comes into play when things are not going well or there is considerable uncertainty about how things will turn out. It arises at just the right moment to remove blinders of fear and despair and allows us to see the big picture. Hope is the belief that things can change.
Having hope requires thoughtfulness and a bit of work. It involves being able to identify pathways to achieve the desired future and the ability to pursue those pathways. Hope is not something, however, that happens to us. Hope is something that we practice. It is a habit that we need to strengthen, develop, and grow.
“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all darkness” – Desmond Tutu
There is a tremendous amount of research to support that hope is important to humans flourishing. It is one of the character strengths most associated with life satisfaction and well-being. As such, there are many ways that we can cultivate hope, deepen hope, and hang on to hope. Here are just a few:
Focus on What You Can Change
Being able to recognize things that are outside of our control can bring a sense of peace. When we can recognize what we cannot control, we also can recognize what we can control. This enables and empowers us to re-focus our energy and practice self-care.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the practice of being present, self-aware, and engaged in what you are doing and where you are at that moment. By practicing mindfulness, we train our attention to observe our thoughts and feelings and alter our behavior towards them. Over time, we can train ourselves to bring our attention to the present and be more open to our responses to the world around us.
Find Gratitude
Gratitude is a feeling of appreciation for all that is good in our lives. Purposely recognizing what we are grateful for can uplift us when things seem bleak. Cultivating gratitude can provide meaning in our lives.
Meditation
This is one of the best ways to be present at any moment. Meditation drops us into the here and now and can be done by anyone, anywhere, any time. Meditation is about changing your relationship with your thoughts. It is a very simple practice, even if it is not always easy. At a minimum, all it involves is taking a few deep breaths, becoming aware of the present moment, and acknowledging what is happening in your mind.
The more hope that we can cultivate today, the better equipped we are to face the future. By being open to hope, we can face the challenges that lie ahead and find creative solutions to rebound from obstacles and demonstrate resilience.
Contact VIP Ketamine Clinics
Our Modesto, CA ketamine clinic offers ketamine infusions for a variety of mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. Our first priority is the emotional, mental and physical wellbeing of our patients. If you or a loved one are suffering from a psychiatric disorder, contact our ketamine clinic for a free consultation. We will help point you in the direction of health and wellness, whatever direction that may be.