By Stephen Propst
Positive affirmations and practicing mindfulness can be improve your perspective and your mood.
You’ve heard the expressions “mind your money” and “mind your manners.” Well, it pays to mind your mindset too! Mindfulness is doing what you can to battle bipolar presently, purposefully, positively, and practically to the fullest extent possible. It’s acting with awareness and control, and in anticipation of regaining a full and meaningful life.
Being mindful matters in every facet of recovery— from overcoming obstacles to seeking support to maintaining motivation. Practicing mindfulness means that you are more aware of how your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors impact your physical and emotional health.
In dealing with bipolar, being mindful moves you away from clutter, chaos, confusion, and commotion. It moves you toward clarity, certainty, confidence, and competence. Mindfulness means taking ownership and becoming more creative and innovative in your approach to your recovery. The goal is simply to get your life back in balance.
For me, taking ownership means working hand-in-hand with my psychiatrist on mood management. My doctor doesn’t just give orders; rather, he expects me to take responsibility when it comes to wellness.
Managing my mindset about recovery has been critical. I’ve used mindfulness to reduce stress—taking a walk while engaging in positive self-talk—and in cognitive therapy sessions—focusing more on listening and embracing potential solutions. (My personal trainer wishes I would be more mindful when we’re working out and pay more attention to what I’m doing!)
I didn’t learn this concept overnight. Pursuing mindfulness happens one step at a time. While having an ultimate goal is important, don’t be so preoccupied on an outcome that you miss out on the journey. Learn to focus on the process itself and you increase the likelihood of a favorable result. Though I still have major bouts of depression, I’ve learned to force myself to accomplish something positive. In doing so, I am amazed that I can still capitalize on creativity during trying times. (Many of my articles have almost magically emerged during periods of deep despair.)
Here are five steps to get you moving in a more mindful direction:
- Step back and take time to reflect. Take note of how you’ve been addressing your mood and your life in the past. Get an objective picture, apart from all the subjectivity and emotionality which can cloud your thinking. Then, take time to learn from your mistakes and capitalize on your successes.
- Step forward and anticipate that positive results will come from practicing mindfulness. Consciously decide to be the champion of your own recovery. You can begin today by examining what you say to yourself and others.
- Step away from triggers, like those bad relationships and environments that are not conducive to recovery. It makes no sense to unnecessarily stall or sabotage progress toward wellness.
- Step toward the resources, people, and ideas you can rely on for the journey. Equip yourself with the knowledge, tools, and support you need. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
- Step out and be willing to take a calculated risk. You’re not throwing caution to the wind when you do something that’s bold but beneficial.
Mindfulness can be integrated into many areas of your life. Personally, I try to use the concept whether it’s improving attitude or strengthening relationships. It helps me manage my expectations, limitations, and vulnerabilities.
Mindfulness requires vigilance. Be aware if you start doubting your ability to be mindful or discounting its potential. Be prepared to retreat, reflect, and regain control when needed. The key is to take active, mindful control of your life and stay on the road to wellness.
Bipolar can put you on what you think is an undesirable, unalterable path. But you can choose to start managing your mindset more mindfully. You’ll find more ability to cope with bipolar and more reason to hope for better days ahead.
Used by permission.