Life has a way of testing us—and that’s why it helps to know a few proven ways to get through life’s toughest moments. One moment, everything feels steady. The next, the ground shifts beneath your feet…
In these moments, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed, lost, or even powerless. But here’s the truth: while we can’t always control what happens, we can choose how we move through it.
There are powerful, practical ways to get through difficult times—and to do so with grace, resilience, and hope. This isn’t about pretending everything is fine.
It’s about honoring your feelings, taking small steps forward, and trusting that brighter days will come. Whether you’re facing a storm right now or preparing for life’s inevitable challenges, this guide will walk you through five proven ways to regain your footing and strengthen your inner resilience.
1. Own and Process What You’re Feeling 🧠
Difficult times stir up all kinds of emotions—grief, anger, fear, disappointment, even numbness. It’s tempting to push those feelings aside and “just stay strong,” but burying emotions often makes them louder over time. True strength lies in allowing yourself to feel, fully and honestly.
“The emotion that can break your heart is sometimes the very one that heals it.” – Nicholas Sparks
Give yourself permission to experience whatever is coming up. Journaling can be a powerful outlet—writing down your thoughts can bring clarity and relief.
Talking to a trusted friend, counselor, or support group can help you process emotions in a healthy way. Even mindful movement, like walking or yoga, can release emotional tension stored in the body.
If you’re unsure where to start, here’s a simple emotional check-in you can use:
😢 Sadness
😠 Anger
😨 Fear
😶 Numbness
2. Focus on What You Can Control 🗂️
When life gets tough, it’s easy to get trapped in a loop of “what if” thinking and fear about things we can’t change. But constantly spinning your wheels over the uncontrollable only drains your energy and leaves you feeling stuck.
The key is to shift your focus to what is within your control—even if it’s just one small thing.
Start by making a simple list:
👉 What you can control today
👉 What you can’t
Then, choose one small, actionable step you can take right now. That might be moving your body, preparing a healthy meal, cleaning your space, or calling a friend. These “micro wins” rebuild a sense of agency and momentum, even when everything else feels chaotic.
This exercise is grounding. It reminds you that while you can’t dictate circumstances, you always have power over your choices, mindset, and actions.
From there, choose one step you can take: a workout, a nourishing meal, a cleaned space, a phone call to someone supportive. These “micro wins” build momentum and help rebuild a sense of agency.
Here’s a helpful way to break it down:
✅ What You Can Control
🚫 What You Can’t Control
3. Shift Your Mindset: Resilience Over Perfection 🏋️
During difficult times, your mindset can either trap you—or free you. It’s easy to fall into perfectionist thinking, telling yourself you need to have it all figured out, or that setbacks equal failure. But resilience isn’t about being flawless. It’s about being flexible—learning to bend without breaking.
“You may have to fight a battle more than once to win it.” – Margaret Thatcher
Start noticing your inner dialogue. Are you expecting yourself to handle everything perfectly? Are you judging yourself for struggling? If so, it’s time to reframe:
💪 I don’t have to do this perfectly—I only have to do it imperfectly but consistently.
🕰️ This setback is not permanent.
🌱 I can learn and grow from this experience.
Remember: resilience is built one choice at a time. Give yourself permission to fall and rise again. The goal isn’t to avoid the hard moments—it’s to move through them with grace and courage.
4. Prioritize Self-Care for Body and Mind 🧘♀️
When life feels overwhelming, self-care often falls to the bottom of the list. Yet it’s one of the most powerful ways to rebuild your strength. Your body and mind are deeply connected—caring for both creates the resilience you need to face difficult times.
Start small. Move your body, even with short walks or stretches. Choose foods that nourish, not drain. Protect your sleep—it restores your nervous system. And don’t underestimate mental rest: deep breathing, nature time, or even a creative hobby can reset your mindset.
These small actions aren’t about ignoring your challenges. They are about fueling yourself to meet them—one healthy choice at a time.
Here’s how caring for your body and mind can help:
Physical activity and good sleep improve stress coping abilities
Outdoor activity and sunlight exposure increase serotonin levels
Mindfulness and yoga practices lower cortisol and calm the nervous system
Consistent exercise improves sleep duration and efficiency
Movement and rest balance improve focus, memory, and decision-making
5. Build Connection and Seek Support 🤝
One of the most important ways to get through difficult times is also one of the hardest: reaching out.
When life feels heavy, it’s tempting to pull away—to put on a brave face, retreat into solitude, and convince yourself that you should be able to handle everything on your own.
But here’s the truth: while solitude can sometimes offer clarity, isolation magnifies pain. Connection is what helps lighten the load—and reminds you that you are not alone.
Difficult seasons are part of being human. And humans are wired for connection. It’s in relationships—whether deep or simple—that we find comfort, perspective, and the strength to keep moving forward.
Sometimes all it takes is one conversation, one compassionate ear, to shift the weight you’re carrying.
“We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to.” – Brené Brown
Support comes in many forms. You don’t have to share everything with everyone. Start small. Let someone in.
🙋♀️ Talk to one trusted person. A friend, family member, or mentor.
🫂 Lean on community. Support groups, faith circles, online communities—spaces where you feel safe.
💬 Seek professional help if needed. Therapy, coaching, or counseling provide expert tools to guide you forward.
Remember: asking for help is not weakness—it’s wisdom.
We all need others to remind us of our strength when we can’t see it for ourselves. Building connection is one of the most powerful ways to get through life’s toughest moments—and one of the most healing.
FAQs About Ways to Get Through Life’s Toughest Moments
1. What is the best first step when going through a difficult time?
Start small. Focus on one thing you can control today—whether it’s moving your body, reaching out to someone, or simply allowing yourself to feel. Progress begins with one small choice.
2. How can I stay positive during difficult times?
Staying positive doesn’t mean ignoring your struggles. It means balancing them with hope. Practice gratitude, focus on what you can control, and surround yourself with supportive people.
3. Is it normal to feel stuck or numb?
Yes. Feeling stuck, numb, or disconnected is a natural response to overwhelm or grief. These feelings aren’t permanent. With time, self-care, and support, your sense of hope will return.
4. When should I seek professional help?
If your difficult time leads to overwhelming sadness, anxiety, hopelessness, or affects your ability to function daily—reach out to a professional. Therapy is a powerful tool for healing and growth.
5. How can I support a friend who is going through difficult times?
Listen with compassion. Be present without trying to “fix” their situation. Offer consistent encouragement and remind them they are not alone. Sometimes the best support is simply showing up.
Moving Forward Through Life’s Toughest Moments 🌟
Difficult times test us—but they also reveal the depth of our resilience.
Remember, getting through hard seasons isn’t about doing it perfectly. It’s about showing up for yourself, one small choice at a time. Feel what you need to feel. Focus on what you can control. Shift your mindset. Care for your body and mind. And above all—lean on connection.
No one is meant to face life’s storms alone. The steps you take today will carry you forward. Trust that brighter days are ahead. You are stronger than you know—and this chapter will not define you. Keep going.
