growth in difficulties

Since difficulties are unavoidable, it helps to think of them positively. It is understandable to have negative feelings initially during challenges, but responding in a positive way should be easier with practice. This approach benefits us and those around us.

Difficulties can grow us in the following areas:

1. Empathy

Empathy is vital for connecting with others. Because of your experience, you can better understand others’ struggles and needs. For instance, let’s say that you struggled in math for many years, and this disappointed your parents. Yet, you still managed in school. Now that you are older, you can tutor a younger student who struggles in the same way. Your advice might have been useless to the student if you were a math genius because you might not have understood his or her challenges.

2. Integrity

Let’s say your difficulty occurred because someone mistreated you. Instead of holding a grudge against this person, learn from their mistakes and grow in character. For example, if you were bullied in school, you might be more sensitive to how words and actions affected others. As a result, you can be more reliable, honest, and kind in how you treat people. 

3. Leadership Ability

Many people are more mature than others because of difficulties. There are teenagers who are more mature than some adults due to hardship in their lives, for instance. They might be more patient, more level-headed, or more humble. Thus, if you are in this category, you might be a great leader who sets an example for others.

Challenges shape us into better people. It would be nice to live without them, but this is unrealistic. Thus, there are ways to think positively about these challenges so that we can improve our world. May you be blessed.

Yours Truly,

Dear Youth Global

Elizabeth Hart