Throughout my journey to fulfill my dreams, no one ever warned me about the amount of frustration that I would have to deal with. At times those overwhelming bouts of frustration can lead to a deep depression. Every year around my birthday and toward the new year my feelings of frustration are at its peak.
What am I doing wrong? What can I do better? Why didn’t I reach this goal?
These are just some of the things that swirl through my mind, like a tornado, destroying any feelings of accomplishment. Luckily, year after year of going through this emotional turmoil, I’ve figure out the best ways to overcome it.
For years I felt guilt for even feeling frustrated. I couldn’t understand why I can’t seem to be grateful for the strides that I have made in my career. Even my loved ones didn’t understand my lack of wanting to rejoice in my blessings. After explaining how I felt, they still couldn’t fully understand– shoot, neither could I.
It wasn’t until recently someone sent me this interview with TD Jakes. Towards the end he speaks about frustration as if he knows me. First, I want you to take a look at this clip so you can understand where I’m coming from.
Now that you’ve watched the video, you see what I mean. When you’re standing still and you know you should be soaring, it can be gut wrenching. That’s why I wanted to share with you the ways I deal with frustration. I promise I won’t give the cliche answer of count your blessings:
- MOVE! -Seriously! As the famous quote from the crappy college commercial stated: “You’re still sitting on the couch, get up!” Making moves or keeping busy helps me avoid the “Frustration Depression”. During the winter, I know things tend to be a little slow but find something constructive to keep you on a better path.
- Stay off of social media– In a previous post I explained why doing a social media detox is vital to a healthy life. Well, this would be the PERFECT time to start that detox. When I’m in frustration mode, I find it best to focus solely on me and not what anyone else is doing. The “Compare and Contrast Syndrome” can be detrimental to my progress.
- Inspiration – I read books, watch videos or look for quotes that will inspire me. This TD Jakes interview was one that worked for me but there are countless others out there can heal your frustration wound.
- Don’t Give Up – Entrepreneurship and living out your dreams will become so frustrating you’ll have moments where you want to give up. I feel like a hypocrite telling you this but “don’t give up”. Wipe your tears away, (yes, the frustration will make you cry) take a deep breath and keep it moving. As I sit here and reflect the many times I could’ve given up, I thank God for giving me the strength to overcome the frustration and continue to persevere.
The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will. –Vince Lombardi
Leave a comment below and share how you deal with frustration. People can always use some additional tips and tricks.
Xo
Nekia
