Keep living.
This quote from the movie "A Man Called Otto" really touched my heart in a different way.
Ok so if you haven't seen this life changing film yet starring Tom Hanks, then this is your sign to finally do so. It's basically a film about moving on and forward after a traumatic event.
I don't want to preempt anything else except that powerful line there from that film because you deserve to enjoy the movie by yourself to fully appreciate the plot and the life lessons in between.
To be candid about it, I felt that it was something really serendipitous as I found this film while onboard my flight back to Manila.
Very much in alignment for my theme this year which is all about transformation.
You see, I made myself a promise that upon returning from the holidays, I will work on myself once more, both personally and professionally because I believe that by allowing myself to grow and to change, I inspire others to do the same.
Change can be both exciting and scary at the same time. However, by embracing the unknown and uncomfortable fully, we allow ourselves to grow into the person that we are meant to be.
And that means being able to push forward, no matter how hard times may be as you focus on what you really want for yourself, coming from a space of honesty and vulnerability.
Easier said than done I know. However, it's very much possible. You just have to be mentally resilient as you work on yourself and manage your emotions so you don't fall into the trap of spiraling down as you become overwhelmed by things happening around you and within you.
1.) When someone you love dies
I know it hurts. So much. Whether it's a member of your family, a friend or your significant other, the loss can be so overwhelming. The key here is to take time to grieve and allow yourself to sit comfortably with your emotions so you can process them better. However, it is also very important to know that it's only their physical form that died; the beautiful memories you have created will continue to live on for as long as you keep them close to your heart. Take your time to heal and do what's best for you as you come into terms with what is here and now. In the process of doing so, keep living. Your departed loved ones would have wanted you to do just that because know that wherever they may be now, they will always be a part of you and they would want to see you go on with your life happily eventually.
2.) When you experience failure
Losing can sometimes feel it's the end of the world specially if you've already given your all and done your best. Cheer up. It shouldn't be. Keep living. Think about it this way: it's a reminder that there's still room for improvement or something better is in store for you. Never doubt yourself and your capabilities. You will always be more than enough. Let the dust settle first and then pick yourself up and start all over again. Don't stop until your proud. Because someday, I am quite sure, you will be if you only commit to moving on and forward from that painful loss.
3.) When you experience a break up
Fact: it's very difficult to move on from a relationship that ended when you have gotten used to being with that other person whom you thought you will share the rest of your life with. However, please take to heart that it had to happen for a reason. Whether it's about you finally realizing your worth and what you truly deserve or perhaps for you to realize what you have been neglecting for the longest time, embrace the lessons that go with it as you keep living. Not everyone has to play a part in your story but it doesn't mean that you won't have your own happily ever after eventually. Trust the process and your journey towards finding the love that's meant to be.
4.) When you experience delays
Waiting can be such an agonizing experience. I mean, who wants to bask in uncertainty right? However, it doesn't mean that as you wait for something to come to fruition, your life stops with it. Keep living. Make the most of the time you have exploring other options while improving yourself along the way. Stressing over the wait won't hasten the process anyway so might as well focus on just being productive right? Trust me, your patience will pay off eventually.
5.) When you have reached a certain level of success
Being on cloud nine is such a wonderful feeling don't you think? I mean who doesn't want to experience that different high when you reach your goals? Don't get me wrong, it's ok to celebrate. However, it is also important to note to never let it get into your head. Keep living. Stay grounded. Know that everything is temporary. Enjoy while it's there and celebrate yourself but never lose track of what truly matters most: yourself, your wellbeing and the beautiful relationships you kept that helped you achieve that success.
By this time I know you finally got my point across.
Never make life, whatever happens to you along the way, make you forget how amazing it is and what beautiful things still lie ahead for you.
Because like I always say,
Life goes on. So can you.
Keep living.
