We all go through pain, difficulty and tragedy in our lives. But not all of us suffer from them. The difference is dependent on our choices. It’s our thoughts and beliefs about what we’re going through that can lessen or worsen our pain. It’s one of the reasons why you and a neighbor could go through the same exact thing and have entirely different experiences. And it explains why individuals who have twice as much problems as someone else seem healthier. They’ve learned to accept, adjust and learn from the challenges they face instead of fight against them.

Although we revere and envy individuals with lives that seem perfect, it’s those who struggle and successfully learn to cope with the hand their given that are strongest. They may not be perfect or seem perfect, but those who can identify their own struggles, learn to accept and work on it are much better off than those who avoid addressing their problems. If you are one are one of these survivors, (individuals who are proud to be a work-in-progress) you will find your tribe in our posts below.

{Flickr photo by Jay from Norway}

Therapy Is Not For Wimps
(The Gentle Self) – What society or your culture may deem as weak could be the very thing that makes you strong. This post will make you appreciate and value the side of you that’s not always easy to love-your vulnerability.

Conscious Communication, 1 of 2: Eight Attributes of Conscious-Talking
(Neuroscience & Relationships) – Communication is key in a healthy, happy relationship. The struggle is how to do it right. Here, you’ll learn how to consciously communicate, a way of talking to your loved ones that is mutually enriching, loving and healing.

When You Don’t Love Your Body Or Yourself
(Weightless) – Don’t love or even like yourself? That doesn’t mean you have to wait until you do before you practice self-care. The art of self-acceptance, self-love and healing begins with self-nourishing baby steps. Start here.

The Family Story of Trauma: Ways to Change the Legacy
(Healing Together for Couples) – Is it better to speak about trauma or hide it? Although families often avoid discussing a traumatic event, this post explains why you should talk about it with guidelines on initiating your own healing family story.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Kids and Teens
(Family Mental Health) – Discovering that your child has OCD can be surprising and frightening news. But the more information, resources and support you get can turn a scary, unmanageable condition into a manageable and even hopeful one. Read here for more info.

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    Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 18 Feb 2013
    Published on PsychCentral.com. All rights reserved.