Becoming Greater than Our Circumstances

Clouds remind me that life’s beauty comes from the interplay of light and shadow—a reflection of our own journeys

Becoming Greater Than Our Circumstances

Welcome to Resolve to Rise, a blog dedicated to empowering people to overcome challenges and become greater than their circumstances. Life often brings unexpected hurdles, such as dissatisfaction at work, the diagnosis of a chronic condition, or navigating the effects of chronic stress, PTSD, or Complex PTSD.

In those moments, it can feel as though the ground has shifted beneath your feet, leaving you stuck and uncertain. When life changes in significant ways, the tools you once relied on may no longer work.

The Reality of Feeling Stuck

When you feel stuck, it’s not just a perception—it’s your reality. The saying “Perception is reality” might be overused, but it holds truth.

For instance, when facing the effects of chronic stress or trauma, you may find yourself stuck in negative thought patterns or emotional cycles that make it hard to move forward. Complaining or feeling overwhelmed can become the norm, draining joy and hope from your life.

But here’s a key lesson I’ve learned: if I change nothing, nothing changes.

Even small steps toward change can open the door to growth and healing. For example, if I feel physically unwell but resist adjusting my habits—like my diet—I’m likely to continue feeling unwell. Not every attempt will work. Your first, second, or even third approach may fall flat. But each effort gets you closer to a solution that fits your needs.

Growth Is a Process, Not a Destination

Becoming greater than your circumstances isn’t about achieving one definitive moment of triumph. Instead, it’s a journey—one that involves persistence, experimentation, and learning from what doesn’t work.

This is especially true when addressing the challenges of chronic stress, PTSD, or Complex PTSD. Healing requires trying new strategies, whether it’s through grounding techniques, therapy, or finding ways to build resilience. Some approaches will resonate deeply; others may not. But every attempt is a step forward.

Final Thoughts

If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, remember that change begins with a single step. Be patient with yourself as you explore what works for you, knowing that growth and healing are possible.

For more resources on overcoming chronic stress, PTSD, and Complex PTSD, visit www.resolvetorise.com. With 19 years of counseling experience, a background as a former Fortune 5 healthcare executive designing care models for individuals with complex mental health needs, and as the bestselling author of Resolve to Rise: Become Greater than Your Circumstances, I bring both professional expertise and the perspective of someone who has personally navigated the challenges of healing from trauma.

You can also learn more about my book, Resolve to Rise, here, where I share my lived experiences and offer practical steps for becoming greater than your circumstances.

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