I've found one thing consistently changes a shitty situation to a less shitty one. Often, it even snowballs into a good one. It's not easy. You won't like it. But it's the most effective way I know to reframe your outlook when it feels like you're completely boxed in.
Gratitude.
I know, it might sound silly. But think about it: aren't they usually having a pretty great time? The folks who gush about gratitude... they seem pretty happy, right?
All I'm saying is that when I finally gave in and tried it—when I'd run out of options—it worked. No, it won't solve everything. But it's not supposed to either. When you're in a shitty situation, that's what you focus on. Consciously making an effort to think of something you're grateful for is what helps your brain shift gears. That's what pivots your focus from what's bad to what's good. It's not about forgetting about the bad stuff. The helpful part is making sure you don't overlook the good. Because that gives you more options to work with in your shitty situation.
When gratitude shows up, so do solutions.
The more gratitude you look for, the more possibilities emerge.
What are three things you're grateful for today (not just in life)?
Why?
onward.
-dmac