Reminders are crucial for hard days for a few key reasons:
Memory Can Be Foggy: When we’re stressed or overwhelmed, our brains struggle to access information clearly. A reminder acts like a lifeline, pulling us back to the things we know are true and helpful, even when we’re not feeling it.
They Counter Negative Self-Talk: Hard days often come with a surge of negativity. Reminders can be pre-emptive positive self-talk, reminding us of our strengths, past successes, and the temporary nature of struggles.
They Re-Ground Us in Self-Care: We might neglect basic needs or healthy coping mechanisms during tough times. Reminders can nudge us back towards getting enough sleep, reaching out for support, or engaging in activities that lift our spirits.
They Offer a Sense of Agency: Choosing to set reminders beforehand shows we’re taking proactive steps to manage our well-being. Seeing them pop up reinforces that we have some control, even when things feel out of control.
In essence, reminders are like little anchors during a storm. They help us stay connected to our inner strength, self-compassion, and the tools we need to weather the tough times.
