Have you ever faced a time when giving up felt like the only option? As beautiful as it is, life often comes with its share of challenges. It can be messy, painful, and relentless, sometimes all at once. Through the years, I’ve shared my struggles with you—moments when I wanted to let go of Positive Focus. Sometimes, things didn’t unfold as planned, and I felt alone in my efforts. Yet, each time I reached that brink, I reminded myself why I began this journey in the first place: to help others feel seen and heard so they can create lives they truly love.
My purpose has evolved, but my core ‘why’ has strengthened.
I’ve also felt the urge to give up on global hugs more times than I can count. I would get discouraged, thinking it should be bigger and more impactful by now. Yet, every time I felt that way, a moment would come—a heartfelt hug that profoundly touched someone, a shared connection that would not have happened had I stopped. When someone tells me they needed that hug more than I could have imagined, I remember why I pressed on. This past weekend, a young man walked by our hugs, and then he turned around and came back. He said he wouldn’t get one because he feared he wouldn’t let go. We had a long, comforting hug, and he was grateful.
Remembering your ‘why’ can be a guiding light during dark times. But sometimes, what you need most is simple: rest.
Rest is vital for clarity and perseverance. I’ve learned that my biggest feelings of overwhelm come when I’ve neglected rest. Self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential, especially when life tests you. Rest is not a sign of weakness—it’s a necessary pause that empowers you to keep moving forward.
And yes, it’s also important to know that quitting can be okay. We quit jobs to find better ones, let go of habits that no longer serve us, and step away from paths that don’t align with our deeper calling. If you reach a point where quitting feels right and aligns with your core values, then it’s okay to choose that path. The key is intention—knowing you’ve explored your options, given your best effort, and are moving towards a life that fulfills you.
Moving forward, I invite you to rest and regain your strength by:
Breathing: When overwhelmed, take three to five deep, slow breaths. We often breathe shallowly without realizing it. Deep breaths can help center your thoughts and ease your mind.
Pausing: Step away from what’s causing stress. A brief pause to walk, listen to music, or meditate can refresh your perspective.
Stepping slowly: Take the next right step. You don’t need to focus on your final destination today. Take one small, intentional step forward. Trust that you can and will adjust along the way.
Reflecting: Revisit your ‘why.’ Remind yourself of your core purpose and the impact you wish to make. Reflection can reignite your drive and provide clarity.
Lastly, know it is also okay to quit. Pause, breathe, rest, and if the answer still leans toward quitting, you can trust that it’s a conscious decision made for your well-being, not knee-jerk.
Until next time, rest and know that you are loved.
Affirmation:
I give myself permission to rest so I can return stronger and wiser.
Words to Love By:
Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. — Confucius
It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop. — Confucius
Rest and be thankful. — William Wordsworth
