When did you last tell yourself, “This is the worst that has ever happened to me,” or “It can’t get any worse,” when things didn’t play out the way you wanted? The reality is that you likely have never even been close to the worst, and it can always get worse.
Let’s assume you have missed a major deadline and have been scolded by your boss: yeah, it stings and might even put your expected promotion at risk. But imagine, instead, losing your job entirely, with no prospects in sight, in an industry experiencing mass layoffs. Suddenly, being scolded by your boss seems less catastrophic. Or think about an important presentation that went poorly, leaving you feeling embarrassed and defeated. Now, imagine the company facing a critical financial crisis because of a poor strategic decision, putting everyone’s jobs at risk. That botched presentation doesn’t seem so devastating anymore.
Or maybe you’ve had a heated argument with a loved one and felt the sting of harsh words. Yet, consider those who have lost loved ones suddenly and tragically, without the chance for reconciliation. Or perhaps you’ve experienced a financial setback and need to scale down. Picture those who lose everything to a natural disaster, left to rebuild their lives from scratch. Your financial hiccup pales in comparison.
When you remind yourself that it can always get worse and recognize that there are people in far worse situations, you can stop lamenting, remove your self-pity, and take action to improve your situation. Perspective is powerful: it helps you see beyond your immediate struggles and appreciate what you still have.
So, the next time you find yourself thinking, “This is the worst,” take a moment to gain perspective. Acknowledge that things could indeed be worse. Use that realization to motivate yourself to move on and take action to improve your situation.
