Do you think more about the way things are, the way things could have been, or the way things might be in the future? What about when life deals you a miserable situation, do you consider the possibility that something amazing might come from it?

Most of us, don’t. At least, not initially. We grieve, obsess, reminisce, and ruminate. These all have their place, but there comes a time to ask what good things could come from this unfortunate circumstance.

But most of us don’t get taught essential life skills like this. Here are 5 ways to make the best of a negative situation:

1. Look for the lesson.

2. Study and develop coping skills particular to your situation.

3. Focus on healthy habits.

4. Allow yourself to be sad, but not all the time. Practice gratitude to draw you out of your sadness at least once a day.

5. Explore what new people and possibilities this situation will open your life to.

Most of the time we don’t see most of the possibilities before us. This is uniquely true when life deals us an unexpected blow. Open yourself to new possibilities.

Matthew Kelly

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