The word “hard” is relative to every person. Based on where you come from, your attitude, and what life events you've been through, you have your own definition for the word hard. My definition of hard is probably completely different from yours. Regardless, everyone goes through rough times and circumstances no matter how happy and perfect their life may seem.

For me, personally, I think times are hard when things aren’t going the way I plan or things don’t turn out the way I want. In the moment, it is hard for me to remind myself that it is not a big deal or everything gets better. When I think of “hard” there are certain moments and timeframes that reappear in my head. Looking back at those times now, if I had the opportunity to go back and redo things or change things I know I would leave everything the same way it was. If you are reading this and you feel like your life is crashing down, I promise you it is only uphill from where you at, but it is your job though to help yourself get out of your slump. I think the worst thing people can do to themselves is feel sorry for themselves or dwell on the same moment/thing over and over again. Replaying events in your head and overthinking is an unhealthy habit and no matter how much you think replaying these events helps your overcome the difficulty of pain: you are wrong. The only way to overcome anger, sadness, fear, or difficulty is to find peace within yourself in order to move on. I know this is easier said than done and the last thing people want to hear is that time and patience heal, but it is the truth.

One thing I have learned from my “hard” times that essentially motivates me is everything that you go through whether it be a rejection from a job, a breakup, a loss, all of it, is a learning experience that pushes you to mature and develop as a person. I truly think that is why if I had to go back and take away the hard times, I wouldn't because those hard times are the reason I am the way I am today. You should be proud of yourself for overcoming obstacles because in return you will be emotionally stronger. Next time you are in a slump, remind yourself that the hard times are just a learning experience. Hardship humbles you and gives you appreciation for the little things in life, but most of all it pushes you to become the best version of yourself.

Lastly, you are not alone. When you are feeling out of it or upset, there are so many other people who are going through the same thing you are going through or feeling. I take it back, if I could go back to my “hard” times, I wish that I could remind myself of these things so that I could of been easier on myself during certain circumstances. Life doesn't always follow the path you pave for it, actually I think it rarely does, so you just have to be prepared for that, cut yourself some slack, and learn from your mistakes. In the end, no matter how “hard” times are, everything always ends up falling back in place and figuring itself out.

“I wish you enough pain so that the smallest joys in life appear much bigger.”