By Michelle McLaughlin
Life can throw some serious curveballs, can’t it? At times, everything feels like it’s too much, overwhelming, and just plain hard. You may wonder what challenges lie around the next corner and feel like you’re breaking down inside. But here’s the question: do you have something within you to face whatever comes next? That inner strength—the one that helps us rise after every fall, take the next step, and live with meaning even when life feels impossible—that’s your inner compass.
But what exactly is this “inner compass”? Why does it feel so steady one minute and then fade away the next? And how can you tap into this powerful guiding force, especially when you’re in the middle of it? Can you honestly believe that no matter how tough life gets, you have what it takes to make it through?
Seeing Beyond Today
Living “one day at a time” is important but often easier said than done when times get tough. How do we find purpose, strength, and courage to see the lessons these experiences are giving us right now that are shaping us for a brighter future. Overcoming our overwhelming challenges isn’t just about mental toughness or mental health. And, facing life’s hard moments isn’t about pretending everything’s fine when it isn’t—it’s about seeing the struggle for what it is, knowing you can deal with it, and believing you’re meant for more.
Instead of letting these moments define you, recognize them as part of your journey – one of many remarkable and challenging transitions that’s shaping you for greater things to come. Despite the pain, tears, and struggles, you discover your “inner compass” guiding you to transform pain into purpose. You emerge from tough times with a renewed sense of self, a deepened faith, and a trust in what lies ahead.
Following Your Inner Compass: The Key to Thriving, Not Just Surviving
Some people seem to have a natural connection to their inner compass. If you’re not one of them, that’s okay—this inner strength and knowingness can be developed. Building resilience, strengthening your inner compass, and showing up for yourself in tough times can make all the difference. Here are a few simple ways to get in touch with this guiding force and let it carry you through the most difficult days:
- Grow Your Positivity
Don’t ignore the negative but lean into the positive. It may seem hard at first but do your best to focus on the good and find gratitude for even the smallest of things. Notice those moments that comfort and soothe your soul. It may be a smile, a kind word, a cup of coffee or a hug that brings you comfort. And, even when times are tough practice self-care to ground you and bring you a different perspective.
- Social Support
No one should face difficult times alone. Ever! Build a strong support system—whether that’s with family, friends, activities or community groups. Sometimes it’s as simple as having a conversation with a stranger waiting in line at the grocery store. Just keep reaching out even when you don’t want to. Having people in your life, and staying connected, even when it’s hard and you want to hide…makes all the difference. I’ve learned this one in spades the last few years. I promise you aren’t weak when you ask for help – it is the opposite – it makes you stronger!
- Focus on What You Can Control
When life feels unpredictable, it’s easy to feel like you’re losing your grip. Start paying attention to where you have control and put lots of energy there. Whether it’s taking charge of your diet, practicing self-care, or simply focusing on one day at a time, these small steps help restore a sense of purpose and strength.
- Emotional Strength
Our emotions are incredibly powerful, and during hard times, we feel the full range of ups and downs—from anger, fear and sadness to hope, faith and gratitude. Instead of pushing these feelings away or numbing them with food, alcohol, or distractions, allow yourself to fully experience them. Some days you cry, some days you are angry, some days you want to give up… but just let your emotions come and go, learning to move through them rather than be controlled and defined by them. I struggled with this myself, but over time with journaling, finding mentors, connecting with friends, and letting others support me it allowed me to process and share my emotions, so they no longer felt overwhelming.
Start each day by expressing gratitude and writing it down in a journal. Give these simple tools a try. Trusting your “inner compass” is something anyone can learn—even you—with a little practice, reflection, and support. One day, you’ll look back and realize it was all worth it—you will have moved from struggle to strength. Embrace the process rather than resisting and learn to love even the parts of yourself you once thought unlovable. Remember, you don’t have to go it alone; share this journey with others, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
Michelle McLaughlin is a guide, a wise woman, and an accomplished coach experienced in supporting women as they navigate remarkable, unexpected, and / or most challenging transitions in life. Often referred to by other female leaders as “the most courageous woman” they know, McLaughlin has endured chronic illness, alcoholism, divorce, financial loss, depression, and grief… and emerged stronger, bolder and more capable to lead other women into new directions. A courage creator and pioneer, Michelle is the mentor any woman would love to have by their side — and every woman deserves. She loves the CA lifestyle and lives in San Diego and Palm Desert. For a complimentary 30-minute coaching, please call or text Michelle at 760.285.1241 or email questions to michelle@innerwisdom4u.com.
