Dark Visions

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How is this season treating you? Have you changed like the leaves on trees? Perhaps you are cold, like the frigid temperatures in Chicago.

We have options when responding to difficult moments in life. Resources may be limited, but we can choose our reactions to the environments we find ourselves in today.

The mind's eye determines our perceptions. In a world where racism, sexism, and other forms of oppression remain salient, we are not powerless. We can control how we think about problems.

Discipline is fundamental to our success.

Are you on holiday break or organizing your vacation plans? In addition to relaxing, consider how you will make time for key projects.

Exempt from campus duties on vacation leave, I maintain daily writing commitments. Over the last year, I have finished two novels, collaborated on articles, and continued this blog.

Despite changes in work locations, some aspects of my schedule remain the same. After my morning journaling session, I start my day's workout. When I arrive at the gym or on the road for a run, I start in the dark and finish after sunrise.

You may be experiencing a moment of darkness in your life. You may feel like you are going deeper into a cave. It's hard, but push yourself to believe there is light on the other side of your challenge.

Find power in your routines.

Think about creating a mantra to support positive habits and develop a more optimistic mindset.

Try this one; "I am breaking down dark problems into vibrant opportunities." Repeat this phrase to yourself multiple times, and see how it resonates with you.

If it doesn't work, choose a phrase that helps you connect with the right emotions and take productive action.

My advice comes from the many challenges I have encountered during this season of life.

I returned to the job market after six years at the American University of Antigua College of Medicine. During the initial phase, I established a goal of applying for three jobs per day. From these lengthy, time-consuming applications, I received rejections from many and interviews from a few.

I dealt with my family's emotional reluctance to leave Antigua at home. They understood our reasons for relocating but did not want to lose friends or elements of their island lifestyle.

I attempted to put money aside in preparation for a potential income gap. But life happened. The refrigerator broke, our car needed repairs, my son needed money to attend an international swim meet, my daughter got injured, and I needed to pay for a rental car, all of which put a dent in the savings plan.  

Over the last three months, I've had to see through many dark moments. Some issues remain outstanding, but I know the light is near.

We can't give up. They win if we allow them to control our minds and abilities to respond.

Change is good. It allows us to adapt and pursue strategies aligned with the genius placed inside us at birth.

If you need a push to find purpose this weekend, check out the latest vlog episode below.