ROCK thru toxic positivity

by Lee Havenga | October 13, 2022

RESPECT

Respect is about seeing and acting like all other people are valuable.
You can respect challenging situations as well.

Apply it

With this shift in perspective, you can take a step back to see the value a challenge can bring to you. Did you learn something new? Did you grow as a person, expanding your humility, empathy, or grit? Or maybe you strengthened a relationship. If we are willing and take a few minutes to assess the situation, challenges can be our greatest educator.

OWNERSHIP

Toxic positivity is a smile, laugh and encouraging words covering pain and fear.

Apply it

Avoid hiding behind your own toxic positivity by becoming aware of the truths of a situation. You can’t work through challenges if you don’t have a clear understanding of them. Honest assessment is the best start. I find it helpful to write them down so I can then review the list and accept them as truths before taking action.

CONNECTION

A graphic of two hands shaking and forming a heart to represent Connection, one of the four ROCK thru principles.

True positivity can be found in Connection to Spirit when we are inspired by things greater than ourselves.

Apply it

A deep Connection to spirit can bring you a new perspective of hope and genuine positivity towards a challenge or the future. Some of my favorite ways are to go to the forest, the Bible, or practice staying present in the moment. 

KINDNESS

A graphic of two hearts floating up from a hand to represent Kindness, one of the four ROCK thru principles.

All too often we are tempted to disguise our pain with a smile, but the pain still lingers. Although facing challenges can be painful, it’s short-term. Show yourself Kindness, work through your pain and put it behind you.

Apply it

Although it might be counter-intuitive, facing a challenging situation, is an act of Kindness. When you let a problem fester over time, layers of anguish, resentment, and anger are added and it becomes a bigger obstacle to overcome. Be kind to yourself. Move through your challenge as quickly as you are able. If you feel stuck and unsure how to begin, this can guide you.

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