In a boat without a paddle? How to deal with sudden change

Do you ever feel like you are in a boat without a paddle?

Life deals us some unusual cards from time to time.   Everything is going really well and looks good for the future, then suddenly, you get a curve ball.  The tides change, the flow stops, and the paddle you thought you could depend upon has gone....

A picture is worth a thousand words and there is much you can learn from this one about what to do when the paddle has gone.

If you are in a boat without a paddle, you have limited choices... panic (and probably fall out of the boat) or trust and allow the boat take you where it will.  Fortunately other people have also been in this situation and here are some useful tips I have gleaned from them.

1.  Work with what comes up.
You are not always able the choose what happens in your life, but you can choose how to react.    For example, you may lose something or someone suddenly, and of course it will cause you shock and grief.   This is natural.   If you take the time to process the emotions you will grow, developing more love and compassion.    However you could also become bitter about your loss, and jealous of others who have what you don't.  This in turn can make you feel lonely.   With the help of your friends, family and professional support people you can work with what comes up to a point where you can accept the situation and move forward - you become more resilient.    

2.  Focus your intent
In these situations you can either panic or trust that everything will be okay in the end.    Trust takes practice to develop.    You could try one of the following:-

a)  Look at the picture and imagine yourself in that boat.   Imagine the boat taking you somewhere wonderful, new, somewhere you cannot begin to know... yet.  See how the bird flies ahead, promising land.     And also how the woman stands firm, balanced and strong.       Let yourself feel her stillness, poise and trust.    Regular visualisation will set the wheels in motion for a positive outcome for your sudden change.

b)  Use an affirmation:    I trust the process of life to manifest my highest good, greatest joy and inner peace.
Life is taking me exactly where I need to be, to be happy and fulfilled.
Change is for the greater good, I relax knowing I am in the flow and trust the new direction.     
Affirmations will focus your mind and help you see new opportunities.   More on affirmations in my next blog...

3.  Reassure yourself
Being without a paddle means you are in the unknown.  Its is natural that your psyche will be anxious and worried in these situations.     Sudden change does not mean life has to be bad from now on.    Yes it is uncomfortable but if you stay in the moment it is okay.    Talk to yourself like you would a friend who has had a sudden change.  Reassure yourself, be kind and gentle.

4.  Find your balance
If you wobble in the boat, for sure you will fall out.   So its important to get your footing, look out for what is ahead and stay in balance.  Its a time for sharpening your senses!    A healthy diet (foods produce chemicals which can balance our mind and emotions), walking in nature, quietening the mind (give it a rest) through meditation, visualisation and creative distraction, having plenty or rest (sleep is the reset button), and fun time out.    Sometimes it is good not to talk about your troubles and do something completely different.


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