Chapter 1: Understanding Emotional Stagnation

Have you ever found yourself or someone else saying, “Just snap out of it”? This phrase implies that we possess the ability and willingness to change our emotional state at that moment, which is often far from the truth. There are times when the idea of "snapping out of it" feels not just challenging, but utterly impossible.

It’s clear that the initial step toward “snapping out of it” is the desire to do so. When we find ourselves in a state of sadness, discouragement, or despair, that very desire may seem elusive. Thus, we are left pondering, “How can I cultivate the willingness to change my emotional state?”

To help rekindle that willingness, here are two straightforward strategies to move past the “why bother” mindset and embrace happiness once more.

>1. Reflect on a Moment of Happiness. Take a moment to recall a time when you felt truly joyful. This may require some effort and imagination. Compare that past feeling to your current state. Was your physical and mental comfort greater back then? Hold on to that contrast until you can sense a flicker of “willingness” and nurture that feeling, as if it were a small flame you must keep alive.

>2. Act for Someone Else. Each of us has people in our lives or causes we care about deeply enough to act on their behalf, even when we struggle to do so for ourselves. As Albert Einstein wisely stated, “Only a life lived for others is worth living.” Consider taking that step for someone or something you cherish.

Implementing these two methods can reignite that spark of willingness. But what comes next? What reasons do we have to embrace happiness?

This next phase is simpler than discouragement may suggest. It involves shifting our focus toward gratitude. While we all recognize that gratitude is a powerful remedy for feeling stuck, the challenge often lies in how to authentically cultivate it.

Have you ever tried to tell yourself to feel grateful only to respond with, “No, I don’t want to”? It’s a common reaction, especially when we are entrenched in discouragement. However, we can choose to be grateful in spite of it. Why? Because gratitude can fan the flames of willingness we are trying to nurture.

Repeat the first two steps if needed, and concentrate on that flickering flame. By blowing gratitude onto it, we can make it burn brighter. So, how do we express our gratitude and for what?

Often, when we find ourselves in a low emotional state, it’s not just one issue that has brought us there. It’s usually a combination of factors that culminate in our internal resistance saying, “I can’t handle this!”

Rather than getting bogged down by the myriad of reasons we feel down, let’s adopt a perspective: happiness is our right, and it is a natural byproduct of the goodness that governs the universe.

Yes, in moments of sadness, it may feel impossible to believe this. Yet, we can revisit those initial steps and recognize that allowing ourselves to be happy benefits everyone around us.

Consider this example: the thought, “Nothing I do makes a difference, and no one really cares.” If true, this would imply a flaw in the divine order, which is inconceivable. Therefore, we must shift our perception to prove to ourselves that we can indeed experience happiness.

We can start by acknowledging the positive impacts we have on the world around us. Notice how a smile can light up someone’s face, how the dew on the grass sparkles in the sunlight, or how a baby's laughter brings joy.

Instead of dismissing these moments as unrelated to you, translate these observations into qualities for which you can express gratitude:

• I’m grateful that someone is happy.
• I’m grateful for the beauty of nature.
• I’m grateful for the joy of innocence.
• I’m grateful for the songs of birds.
• I’m grateful for the dawn of a new day.

As you continue to recognize and express gratitude, feel the truth behind these statements. Keep expanding your list:

• I’m grateful for the cosmic order.
• I’m grateful for the splendor of flowers.
• I’m grateful for the love that surrounds me.

By nurturing this gratitude, we can rise above any emotional barriers that obscure our happiness.

Translating our experiences into expressions of gratitude allows us to rediscover the spiritual joy that connects us to the infinite goodness and love inherent in our existence.

We don’t have to oscillate between joy and sorrow because within the divine, there is no shadow of turning—only the constant presence of joy. Happiness is a natural byproduct of this awareness, and we can always choose to return to it.

Next time someone tells you to “snap out of it,” you can confidently respond, “I know how to do that!” Sometimes, that very acknowledgment is all it takes!

Chapter 2: Steps Toward Embracing Gratitude

In the video titled "If You Find Yourself Making Excuses And Need Motivation, Do THIS!" Mel Robbins shares powerful insights on overcoming excuses and finding motivation to take action in your life.

The second video, "How to Let Go of the Past - 3 Steps for Regret," explores effective steps for moving forward from past regrets and embracing a brighter future.