Question 6: How do I deal with discouragement and the feeling that I have to give up on my dream in tough economic times? (PART 2)

In Question 5, I wrote about the economic part of this question.  Today, I'm going to write about the "mental" part of this question.

Discouragement is a feeling... an awful one.  I know, I've been there. Which is why I've had to come up with solutions to help me get through those confusing arguments with myself: to give up or to keep going. 

Here are two helpful exercises:

1. Write a Mission Statement about what having the career of your dreams will mean to you, your loved ones, and the world.  When you're feeling down, re-read this!  It gets you back in touch with the "why" you are doing this.

2. Make a list of 30 fun, relaxing, or entertaining things you want to do in the next 2 years. Don't sensor yourself with "cost".  Do put things on the list that don't cost anything.  When you are feeling discouraged, do something from your list.  Most people don't allow themselves any joy when they're not working.  Whatever the excuse is for this phenomenon , it is still just that-- an excuse.  When your steady work comes, you'll look back on this down time and WISH you did fun things instead of wasting these precious moments of your life on energy draining emotions. It may be easier said than done, and so is any new habit you want to establish.  Trust me, this is a GOOD habit to incorporate into your life.  

For more tips and articles by the Greenlight Coach, visit www.theGreenlightCoachBlog.com