When I feel non existent

There are times when we feel completely ignored by people, be it friends or family. Sometimes we feel like no-one understands us completely.  Our dreams, our needs and our hopes to be cared for become invisible.  It's almost like we could be standing screaming and no-one would bat an eyelid, we literally feel invisible and feel treated that way by others. How do we combat our negative thoughts?

No matter how we are feeling, every single person is deserving of love and is valuable. Without question, you are a wonder of God's creation and here for a reason. There's so much positivity to be found in and around you. 

Think positively

Our thoughts are very powerful, as the saying goes 'we become what we think'. So what are you thinking about yourself today?  Our thoughts about ourselves can change how we act and how others may even react to us. Thinking positively about ourselves is important for our well being and mental health, it keeps us alive and strong for a new day.  It keeps us passionate to carry on doing the things that make a difference to the world. The world really does needs your positivity to make a difference today. Can you remember the last time your positive thoughts and actions made a difference in someone else's life?  Philippians 4, 8. 'Finally brothers and sisters, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy then meditate on these things'.

Look to people that love you who you can trust

When we are going through difficult emotions and seasons, sometimes it's a heavy burden to carry alone.  When we carry our burdens alone, it's easy to get tired and feel burnt out.  The weight of the burden can take is toll on us physically, emotionally and spiritually.  However, having even just one trusted friend, family member or confidant to talk to can allow the burden to be shared.  As the saying goes, 'a burden shared is a burden halved'.  Is there anyone in your world you could reach out to when the going gets tough? Don't try and carry things alone but reach out to others, you may find they have been through similar problems and can really help. 

Say a prayer

When things become overwhelming where do we go to for help? It says in Psalm 94, 19 - 'When anxiety became great within me, your consolation brought me joy'. When our worry and anxiety seems to be drowning us. God's comfort can bring us into a more peaceful place. We can rest in knowing that as we pray, God's guidance, help and protection will not leave us. His hand will guide us through every circumstance we may face and bring us through safely. When you feel completely alone, lost or ignored, a sincere prayer to God will not go unnoticed or unheard.  Psalm 66, 19 - 'The Lord has heard my prayer. Thanks to God who has not rejected my prayer or withheld his loving devotion'.

Be grateful

Being grateful for all the things we already have is a really powerful way to become more positive about our lives.  Scientists have now proven that when we express gratitude, our brain releases dopamine and serotonin, the two crucial neurotransmitters that are responsible for our emotions and they make us feel good. They enhance our mood immediately, making us feel happy inside.  This is certainly a power booster for feeling positive. 

Pick yourself back up again

Psalm 40, 2 - 'He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire and set my feet upon a rock'. Through a time of grieving and lost hope, there comes a time when we must decide to pick ourselves back up again. It may be time to start looking forward, rather the back.  It may be time to look at the possibilities and not the obstacles, it may be time to start growing rather than shrinking, to start thriving rather than surviving and start serving rather than receiving.  There's always something new around the corner when your perspective changes. With God's help we will discover our true value and it will lift us from the pit of despair and grief. 

Reach out and help others
Reaching out to help others will put you in a happy place!  Rather than dwelling on negative things about ourselves, when we focus on others, it takes the focus off ourselves. Science has proven helping others releases the chemical oxytocin in your brain which creates feelings of connection, satisfaction and well being. It also contributes to a sense of purpose, boosts self esteem and helps you feel connected to others.  No wonder the bible talks about reaching out to others such a lot, it's not just good for the receiver but for the giver! Wow. 

Put your trust in God

Finally, put your trust in God in whatever circumstance and whatever season you are in, in your life.  He has promised to never ever leave you alone. In Proverbs 18, 24, it says, God is a friend that sticks closer than a brother. God can be the closest friend you'll ever have, this verse specifically states that a true friend can be closer than a family member or sibling, implying that God's love and presence is always with you, even more so than a family member. Deuteronomy 31, 8, 'The Lord himself will go before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid or discouraged'.  

Love Caroline x