grief

Flourishing In The Face Of Life's Challenges

Each one of us takes a unique journey in life, and along the way, we encounter common challenges that shape us as individuals. No one's life experience is the same as someone else’s. That isn't to say there isn't any commonality at all, though. These challenges can serve as opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and resilience. It's quite possible that how we respond to these challenges will shape our entire life.

These common challenges are universal experiences that many people face. From dealing with loss and rejection to navigating career changes and understanding ourselves. Additionally, overcoming past traumas, the ending of relationships, and health issues that serve to make us feel like failures.

These challenges are part of everyday living and while they may be difficult to navigate, they can’t always be avoided or ignored.


How will YOU respond to these nine common challenges most of us face?

 

 

Coping with loss.

A loved one passing away is something no one can escape. At some point - and often multiple points - in your life, you will lose someone you love.

 

Grief is a complex and individual journey, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to coping with the pain of losing someone dear. It is important to allow yourself to grieve in your way and at your own pace, recognizing that there is no right or wrong way to mourn. Some may find solace in talking openly about their feelings and seeking support from friends, family, or support groups. Others may prefer to process their emotions privately.

 

It is crucial to be patient and kind to yourself during this time. Understanding that healing takes time and that there is no set timeline for letting go. While it may be tempting to try and push away the pain, it is important to acknowledge and honor the emotions that arise from the loss of a loved one. Allow yourself to feel the full spectrum of emotions. Including sadness, anger, guilt, and even moments of joy or laughter when reminiscing about the person you lost.

 

Taking care of your physical and mental health is essential during this time. Engaging in activities such as exercise, meditation, or therapy can help you navigate the difficult emotions that arise. Additionally, finding healthy ways to commemorate your loved one, such as creating a memory box or writing letters. Participating in rituals or ceremonies can provide a sense of closure and help keep their memory alive.

 

The opinions of others.

While it would certainly be nice to escape the opinion of others, good luck getting through life without dealing with it.

 

Whether it is friends, family, or random strangers, people will have an opinion on how you are living your life. The key is to know your core values and stick to them no matter what other people think.

 

Dealing with someone's negative opinion of you can be challenging, but some strategies can help navigate such situations. It's important to remember that you cannot control how others perceive or judge you. It's essential to focus on your self-esteem and not allow someone else's opinion to define you.

 

One effective approach is to practice self-reflection and self-awareness. Evaluate the validity of the opinion by considering whether it is based on accurate information or simply a subjective judgment. If there are aspects of yourself that you feel need improvement, you can use this feedback as an opportunity for growth.

 

It's also important to surround yourself with a supportive network of friends and loved ones who appreciate you for who you are. Their positive reinforcement can counterbalance the negative opinion and remind you of your value. And remember that the only opinion that truly matters is yours.

 

Rejection.

It would be shocking if you coasted through life without the bitter sting of rejection.

 

Being rejected can be a painful and challenging experience, but it also offers valuable opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Rejection teaches you resilience. It’s through facing rejection and overcoming the associated emotions that you develop strength and learn to bounce back. It reminds you that setbacks are a natural part of life, and you can persevere and learn from them which leads to personal and professional growth. 

 

Rejection can provide valuable lessons in self-reflection and self-improvement. It encourages you to assess your strengths and weaknesses, identify areas for growth, and make necessary adjustments. It provides an opportunity to reassess your goals, aspirations, and the paths you have chosen. Rejection can push you out of your comfort zones, urging you to explore new avenues, acquire new skills, or seek alternative opportunities. Ultimately, it is through the process of reflection and self-improvement that you can transform rejection into a catalyst for growth.

 

Career change.

Some people are fortunate enough to finish school and go into a job that carries them to retirement. While that sounds nice, most of us will have to go through some career changes in life.

 

Here is a list of 10 things that can help you navigate this transition:

 

  • Assess your skills, interests, values, and passions. Reflect on what truly motivates and fulfills you in a career.

 

  • Explore different industries and roles that align with your interests. Learn about the job market, required skills, and potential growth opportunities.

 

  • Connect with professionals in your desired field. Attend industry events, join relevant online communities, and seek informational interviews to expand your network and gain insights.

  • Identify skills from your current experiences that can be applied to your new career. Highlight these skills on your resume and during interviews to demonstrate your value.

 

  • Consider acquiring new qualifications or certifications to augment your knowledge and credibility in your desired field. Take advantage of online courses, workshops, or vocational training programs.

 

  • Gain practical experience and exposure to your desired industry through volunteering or internships. This can help you build applicable skills and expand your network.

 

  • Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experiences and skills for your new career. Update your LinkedIn profile and other online platforms to attract potential employers.

 

  • Consult with career counselors, coaches, or mentors who can provide valuable advice and support throughout your career change journey.

 

  • Consider the financial implications of a career change. Review your budget, savings, and potential income changes to ensure a smooth transition.

 

  • Career changes take time and effort. Be prepared for setbacks and rejections along the way. Embrace the journey and be open to new possibilities.

 

Figure out who you are.

It can take a long time to figure out who you are. Often you spend your entire youth trying to pinpoint it. 

 

Understanding oneself is a lifelong journey of self-discovery and personal growth. There are no simple questions. Yet, humans have been struggling to find simple answers for ages.

 

Here is a list of things that can help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself:

 

1. Set aside time for introspection. Reflect on your values, beliefs, strengths, weaknesses, passions, and goals. Journaling can be a helpful tool for self-reflection.

 

2. Ask trusted friends, family members, or mentors for their insights on your strengths and areas for improvement. Their perspectives can provide valuable insights into how others perceive you.

 

3. Take personality assessments such as Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), Enneagram, or Big Five Personality Traits. These assessments can offer insights into your personality traits, preferences, and behaviors.

 

4. Engage in activities that genuinely interest and excite you. Explore new hobbies, take classes, or join clubs or communities that align with your interests. This can help uncover new aspects of yourself.

 

5. Develop emotional intelligence by paying attention to your emotions and understanding how they influence your thoughts and behaviors. Practice mindfulness and self-compassion to deepen your emotional awareness.

 

6. Set short-term and long-term goals that align with your values and aspirations. This process can provide clarity on what truly matters to you and help you align your actions with your desired outcomes.

 

7. Step out of your comfort zone and embrace new experiences. Travel to new places, try new things or engage in activities that challenge you.

 

8. Read books, articles, or listen to podcasts that explore topics related to self-development, psychology, and personal growth.

 

Overcoming your past.

Your past may not include any serious trauma or skeletons in the closet. But everyone has some regrets and bad decisions.

 

Reflecting on the past is good, but you can't continue to live there. Being able to move beyond the past is an important part of all your experiences. Begin by acknowledging that your past is a part of your life but does not define your present or future. Accept that you cannot change what has happened, but you have the power to shape your present and future choices. Practice self-compassion and forgive yourself for any mistakes or regrets. Understand that growth and personal development come from learning and going forward, not dwelling on past actions or events.

 

Direct your energy and attention toward the present moment and the possibilities that lie ahead. Set goals and create a vision for the future that aligns with your values and aspirations. Take steps to make positive changes in your life, whether it's seeking new opportunities, building healthy relationships, or acquiring new skills. Surround yourself with supportive and uplifting people who believe in your ability to change and grow. Cultivate gratitude for the positive aspects of your life.

 

The end of a relationship.

You’ve heard the stories of high school sweethearts living their lives happily ever after. Many people, though, will likely go through a few relationships before finding “the one.”

 

The end of a relationship can be a massive upheaval. But eventually, you need to get up, brush yourself off and put yourself out there again.

 

Here are some steps to help you let go, heal, and move forward:

 

1. Permit yourself to grieve the loss of the relationship. Allow yourself to feel the sadness, anger, or confusion that may arise. Express your emotions through journaling, or talking to a trusted friend or therapist.

 

2. Focus on taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. Prioritize self-care routines, get enough sleep, and maintain a balanced diet.

 

3. Reflect on the relationship and the lessons you've learned. Identify any patterns or behaviors that may have contributed to the end of the relationship. Use this self-reflection as an opportunity for personal growth and development.

 

4. Lean on your support system of friends and family. Share your feelings and thoughts with those who care about you. Connect with others and try to engage in social activities or hobbies that bring you joy.

 

5. Establish boundaries with your ex-partner to create space for healing. Limit situations that may trigger negative emotions or reopen wounds. Unfollow them on social media to minimize reminders of the past. Give yourself time to heal before considering any form of contact or friendship.

 

6. Reconnect with your identity. Focus on personal goals and aspirations. Embrace this opportunity for personal growth and to shape your life according to your desires and values.

 

7. When you feel ready, be open to the possibility of new relationships. Move at your own pace and prioritize your emotional well-being. Be patient and allow yourself to naturally connect with someone who aligns with your values and supports your growth.

 

Health concerns.

Life comes at you very fast if you suffer a severe health issue. Even a less serious health issue could change the way you live your daily life.

 

Regardless of the severity, most people will have to deal with medical issues, their own or others. Helping yourself and others with health issues involves a combination of personal care, support, and empathy. Learn and understand the specific health issues you or others are facing. Research reputable sources, consult healthcare professionals, and ask questions to gather information. This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions, offer support, and provide accurate information to others.

 

Prioritize your health and well-being. Ensure you are taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional needs. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle includes regular exercise, proper nutrition, sufficient sleep, and stress management techniques. By taking care of yourself, you'll have the energy and resilience to provide support and care to others. Encourage others to adopt healthy habits as well.

 

Show compassion and understanding to those dealing with health issues. Listen and provide a safe space for them to express their feelings and concerns. Validate their experiences and offer reassurance. Simply being present and listening can provide immense comfort. Help with practical tasks such as accompanying someone to medical appointments, organizing medications, or assisting with household chores. Offer to connect them with counseling, or support groups that can provide additional assistance.

 

Failure.

Good luck trying to get through life without failing at something. The reality is everyone fails at some point, which is a good thing. Failure can be the best lesson you will ever learn.

 

Take the time to reflect on your failures and identify the lessons they hold. You learn a lot about yourself in the face of failure. Understand the factors that contributed to the setbacks and analyze what could have been done differently. Use these insights to refine your approach and develop strategies for future endeavors. How you choose to react to failure will shape your entire life. Embrace failures as valuable learning opportunities that can lead to growth and improvement.

 

Reach out to trusted individuals who can provide constructive feedback and guidance. A mentor or coach can offer valuable insights, share their own experiences of overcoming failures, and provide support and encouragement. Additionally, consider expanding your network and connecting with like-minded individuals who have experienced similar setbacks. Sharing experiences and learning from others who have overcome failure can provide motivation and inspiration on your journey.

 

My final thoughts are.

In most of our lives, we will face half of, if not all of the above challenges. As the stoics tell us, it is how we respond to the challenges we face that shapes us.  

 

For more information, read these posts.

Tolerate The Large Challenges In Life

The 7 Logs: Common Challenges We All Face In Life

 

Thank you for taking the time to read this post.

Coping With The Loss Of Someone Close

Seasons of life and loss

Throughout our lives, we move through seasons. Some seasons bring much joy to us, But, our seasons of grief or loss can be the most difficult we face as human beings. As we discovered in the previous 2 posts of this series, we all suffer some type of loss in our lives. It is safe to say we will face multiple kinds of loss. It can also be said that how we manage our loss is as individual as we are.

While some losses are just harder the closer, we were to the loved one. Some losses challenge us at the heart of who we are, such as, a mother, who had lost her only child, can struggle to find her place now that she has no claim upon the title of ‘Mom’.

If your loss was sudden, shock and disbelief can take over. If protracted, you may be exhausted and relieved, yet, feeling guilt and remorse.

 

Learning to cope with the loss of someone close to you.png

 

How to cope with guilt when you lose a loved one

When you lose a loved one, it can be incredibly difficult to carry on, as you’ll find yourself feeling empty and possibly depressed for a long time following. This is a normal part of the grieving process, and by facing and embracing these emotions, you will gradually be able to heal and remember that person in a more positive way.

But another common emotion to be struggling with at this point is guilt. While this is another common emotion, it is not as adaptive and can be unhealthy. Here we will look at where the guilt comes from and what you can do about it.

Why you feel guilt or remorse

When someone dies of natural causes or an accident, it is no one’s fault. However, it is very easy to end up blaming yourself and feeling remorse. Perhaps you think if you hadn’t called them over, then they never would have been on the road when that car came. Maybe you think you could have encouraged them to go to the doctor sooner.

This is one cause of guilt during grief, but it is far from the only one. Likewise, it is also common to feel guilt over the way you’ve handled their death. Perhaps you feel guilty for not being sadder or too sad. Maybe you feel guilty for not being more supportive of your family. Or maybe you feel guilty years later for moving on with your life. Sometimes, you can simply feel guilty for being alive when your loved one isn’t.

All these things are very normal, but they are not healthy, and ultimately, they need to be overcome for you to move on with your life.

Overcoming your guilt

Overcoming guilt is about learning to forgive yourself and let go. Because, ultimately, your loved one would undoubtedly prefer that you were happy and getting on with your life as you should.

This means sitting down and honestly assessing your feelings. Of course, if events had been different, then your loved one may have died, or they may not have. You could not have known the future, and you acted as you thought was best at the time. Likewise, everyone else is equally culpable for their actions or inactions, and most likely, nothing anyone did would have made a difference anyway.

Likewise, you should not feel guilty about being alive or for being happy. If anything, you should cherish your happiness even more out of respect for those who don’t have it. You owe it to your family who are still alive to be the happiest and best version of yourself.

It is easy to say these things and less easy to believe them or act on them. Consider seeing a cognitive behavioral therapist, and they will be able to help you come to terms with reality and adopt better-coping strategies.

 

Some pain is simply the normal grief of human existence. That is pain that I try to make room for. I honor my grief.
— Marianne Williamson

 

Dealing with the practicalities

When a loved one dies, it can sometimes seem disrespectful or churlish to think of the practical implications. Seemingly, the best thing to do is to focus on the emotional aspects, on how much we are going to miss that person and how tragic it is that they have died.

And, of course, in some ways that should be your primary concern. But at the same time, it’s important not to forget the considerable, practical implications that can also have a big impact on your life and that can contribute to your feelings of love and loss.

Losing a partner

Losing your partner essentially means losing your plans for the future. It means facing life alone or, potentially, having to go through the stresses of dating again one day in the distant future. What’s more, it might mean a lot of financial strain. Perhaps you’ll need to leave your home now that you are only on one salary. Perhaps you will struggle to raise children if you are at that stage.

Final preparations

Whether you are a relative or a partner, there is also a good chance you may be responsible for funeral preparations. This can involve another big expense on your part, as you pay for the costs. Likewise, the sheer scale of the event to organize, especially one that has such an emotional element, can be overwhelming.

Paperwork

There’s also a lot of stressful paperwork involved when you have lost a loved one. This might mean claiming life insurance, or it might mean removing your loved one’s name from bills and other official documents for example.

There is no stopping

Meanwhile, you will find that life just doesn’t stop, as much as you might wish it would. Eventually, you will need to return to work, children will need to be taken to school, and you will need to do your food shopping.

How to Cope

All this makes it considerably more difficult to deal with the powerful, negative emotions you will be going through.

The first thing is simply to recognize this element and to be prepared for it. If you are struggling, then note that this is something that other people can help you with, and they will surely be willing. Asking someone to do a food shop, to take the kids to school, or to help you with legal documents can be a lot off your mind, and they will be happy to help.

If possible, you should prepare for this eventuality before the fact. This is why life insurance is so important as well as creating a will. While we never like to think of our mortality, doing so can be a huge help for our surviving family and is well worth the effort.

What you can do to support the person who’s lost someone close

When someone is going through the loss of a loved one, it can be incredibly hard for the friends and family who are watching on. When you see someone in so much pain, you will, of course, want to help and support them, but what can you possibly say or do that will make them feel better? How should you act around them?

Be there for them

The first thing to recognize is that no ‘blanket advice’ is going to be particularly useful. Everyone is different, and thus, the right approach will depend on their personality, their experience, and the relationship they had with that person.

But no matter who your friend or relative is and no matter what their circumstances, one thing that isn’t helpful is to try and avoid them. This is the reaction that some people have when they’re too unsure as to how they should treat the person who is suffering. Of course, this is an unintentionally selfish reaction that will make someone who is going through a terrible loss feel ostracized and more alone.

Talking does help

While people differ, you shouldn’t assume that your friend or relative doesn’t want to talk about their loss, especially a long time after the fact. For someone who has suffered a great loss, it’s often hard to speak openly about that person or their relationship without worrying they will make people feel uncomfortable. This results in a situation where they are left feeling as though they must swallow an awful lot of pain and where they can’t talk about someone very important to them. Often, the best thing you can do is to ask them about that person or how they’re feeling but follow their lead on this.

Never offer comparisons

While your impulse might be to say, ‘it will be alright’, or ‘it’s like the time I lost my rabbit’, these are not helpful comments. Unfortunately, when someone has died it has already ‘not been alright’. Likewise, it is folly to compare grief and it can (unintentionally) come across as though you are undermining their pain.

Be sympathetic and listen, but don’t claim to understand, and don’t try to reassure them that it’s ‘not that bad’. Just be there to listen.

Offer diversions

The offer of a meal out, a movie, or a walk in the park to your friend or relative might allow them to forget their troubles for a while. Again, follow their lead. Don’t treat them as though they’re made of glass because sometimes a bit of normality is exactly what they need.

 

I hope this post has given you food for thought both as someone who has lost someone close or in the supporting role of someone who has had to assist a friend or relative. I would be most grateful if you share this post.

Moving Forward After Losing A Loved One

Grams Wisdom 9

My Gram and I shared a very important loss. Her eldest daughter, my Mother, had an aneurysm the day after her 72nd birthday and was gone in the blink of an eye. Leaving us to learn this lesson together. How do you move forward after losing someone you love?

I moved through the time until the funeral as if in a daze. Gram had given me my instructions the day after Mom was gone, and that carried me through. She, on the other hand, once the last guest had gone, never spoke my Mother’s name for the next 6 months.

Note: Gram and I navigated through our grief together, yet with very different approaches. I spoke frequently of my Mom, telling stories about her from my childhood, while Gram looked through photo albums with pictures of a serious faced little girl who grew up to be that woman.

How to move forward when you've lost someone you love.png

Getting over a loved one’s loss

Losing someone that you love is one of the most painful and distressing experiences that many of us will ever go through, and it’s something that other people just can’t relate to unless it has happened to them.

In the days and weeks following this hurt, it can sometimes feel as though nothing will ever be the same and as though you can never go on. It can often feel as though you shouldn’t want things to return to normal or even for yourself to be happy, as though your happiness is disrespectful to the one you’ve lost. The thought of laughing or playing again can be enough to make you cringe and maybe it was poet W.S. Merwin who said it best:

Your Absence has gone through me

Like thread through a needle.

Everything I do is stitched with its color.

So, the question you might be asking now is whether things ever will get better. How can they?

Time the great healer

The important thing to understand is that you never ‘get over’ the loss of someone you love. You will always carry the scars of that loss with you, and it will influence everything you ever say and do. It will make you more sensitive to others, it will change your idea of ‘what matters’, and you will never forget that person.

But this does not mean that you aren’t allowed to move forward with your life and that you won’t be happy again. And in fact, what you will find is that it is far from being disrespectful. Being happy is the most respectful thing you can do for the deceased.

You will know that you are coping well when you are able to remember something that your loved one said or did and smile. When you can look back on your memories of them happily and smile about it, then you can more effectively keep them alive in your mind, while moving on with your own life.

How long does this take? That depends on a lot of factors and there is no hard and fast rule. Generally, though, after a couple of months you should find that you spend a little less time focusing on the feelings of despair and that you’re able to slowly start picking up the pieces.

Keeping their memories alive

When we lose someone we love, one of the most painful things we must deal with is the knowledge that we’re not going to see them again. This is ultimately a ‘selfish’ perspective that focuses on your own feelings, but it’s also a very human response and a testament to your love for that person.

But worse than not seeing someone again, is not remembering them at all. That is why it’s important to fight the urge to ‘avoid’ painful feelings and why it’s so important to find ways that you keep their memory alive. Here are some ways you can do that.

Tell others about them

As briefly alluded to before, some people will respond to grief by shutting down and pretending it’s not there. If the memory of someone is too painful, then it can be tempting to avoid it all together.

Instead though, try to keep your loved one in mind by bringing them up in conversation. Don’t be afraid to point out how much your friend, partner, parent, or child would have loved what you’re doing, or how much you miss them. The more you talk about them, the easier it will become, and the more you’ll be able to enjoy their memory with others.

Display photos

Keeping photos of your loved one around is also a nice way to keep them in mind. Keeping them in group photos is a nice way to prevent those photos from being morose.

And consider where you’re going to keep those photos. Sometimes, it’s easy to have a photo on a desk and never to look at it. One unique idea is to keep a photo of your loved one in a drawer that you will open regularly. That way, you’ll find yourself having to look at it occasionally.

Emulate their best qualities

When someone dies, their humor, their beliefs, their good nature, and their ideas can live on in you. Try to remember the best qualities of the person that you miss and to emulate those in your own actions. If a deceased friend was notable for their enthusiasm and positivity, then try to channel a bit of positivity in your own approach to things. When you do, you’ll be keeping their spirit alive and ensuring that they made a positive contribution to your life.

I hope you have found this post useful. Please share it with anyone you feel could benefit from its message.

We All Face Loss And Grief

Illustrating grief

When you think of “grief” do you conclude that it means the loss of a loved one? While that is the most obvious of its meanings it is certainly not the only one. Grief can encompass many differing life circumstances and have similar emotions to the loss of a loved one. Let’s look at other less considered examples of grief to see how they are different in form, and yet alike in the feeling of loss.

Coming to terms with loss and grief.png

Sources of grief

Resembling the loss of a loved one, a divorce or break-up can also cause grief. Often, the assumption is that breaking up isn’t ‘as bad’ as someone dying, but of course, you can never compare emotions. If a breakup is final, then you will experience many of the same things: you will never see that person again (potentially), you will have to reassess your future, and you will have to think of the implications it has on other people you know either directly or peripherally. At the same time, you will have to deal with the idea that this person no longer loves you and that a once very close friend now harbors negative feelings toward you.

Likewise, losing a job can also cause types of ‘grief’. This results in the loss of the future you thought you had secured. It affects your sense of self-esteem. It forces you to reassess your identity, and it means a drastic change in your routine and the people you were seeing regularly. Losing a home, losing a beloved pet, or even being ill or injured can all have similar effects.

Many kinds of grief

With so many different causes, it should come as no surprise that different types of grief can be categorized differently. Often grief is described as ‘normal grief’, with other types including ‘anticipatory grief’ (grief that results from something expected), ‘complicating grief’ (grief mixed with other more complex emotions), ‘chronic grief’ (grief that does not subside as expected), ‘delayed grief’, ‘collective grief’, ‘inhibited grief’, and more.

Learning all these labels is not necessarily helpful as, even then, you may experience a form of grief that defies description or that can fall under several headings. The point is that ‘grief’ can emerge in many forms and as a result of many different triggers. You should never approach grief of your own, or of anyone else’s, with preconceptions or prejudice. Our grief is just as individual as we are.

 

Grief is in two parts. The first is loss. The second is the remaking of life.
— Anne Roiphe

 

Grief should never be compared

‘Why are they crying so much? It was only their Granddad!’

If you have ever thought or felt the above, then it’s important to change the way you think about grief and sadness. Likewise, if you have ever thought that your own personal experience of loss ‘trumps’ that of someone else, then you, again, are probably wrong.

The key thing to keep in mind here is that sadness and grief are not quantifiable. What’s more, no, one instance of loss is ‘worse’ than another.

Grief is an individual feeling

One reason for this is that every relationship is different. Just because your Granddad is ‘old’ doesn’t mean you will feel less or be any less sad when they die. If you have a close relationship with them, if you talk to them often on the phone, and if you consider them one of your closest friends, then losing them can be just as bad as losing someone who is traditionally closer.

Likewise, the way people respond to grief is different. Some people are simply more sensitive than others and more inclined to react very badly if they should lose someone they love. Regardless of whether you think they are being ‘overly’ sensitive, that sadness is very real to them.

Moreover, every situation is different and has its own tragedy. Losing someone suddenly can be a terrible shock that leaves you reeling and unable to come to terms with what has happened. Losing someone slowly though will often mean watching them die over time and having to deal with a drawn-out loss.

Then there are the subsequent complications: the way that your children deal with the loss, the way in which your employer reacts, the fact that you might also fall ill at the same time.

No two situations are ever the same, and thus, they cannot be compared objectively. You can’t put yourself in someone else’s shoes unless you have experienced the exact same thing that they have and even then you may not feel the same..

Seek for objectivity in grief

For these reasons, you should never compare grief. That means you should never judge someone’s reaction as being over the top or too detached, and you should never get a sense of superiority out of your own experiences.

At the same time though, it also means you should never judge your own reactions. Allow yourself to react as you react, and don’t have any expectations for what you consider to be appropriate feeling. It’s by objectively accepting your emotions that you will be able to move on healthily in time.

 

I hope you found this post beneficial and that you will share it with anyone you believe might also benefit from its message.