1. When you wake up each morning, let your first thought be, ‘How would my lost loved one want me to behave today?’ They would want me to be happy and productive.
  2. Surround myself with friends who make you feel good and who make me laugh. Go out to lunch with these happy friends two or three times per week. They will be your lifelines.
  3. Break down your day into manageable segments, so it will not feel too demanding. Do this by making a list every night of the things you wish to accomplish the next day. Never make the list too long, so the day does not feel overwhelming. Never make it too short, so it will feel like a productive. Think in terms of one day at a time, one moment at a time and just making it through as happily as possible.
  4. Don’t act like you feel “put upon” or feel sorry for yourself. It is very unattractive. You are not the only one with troubles.
  5. Take fast-paced long walks. It will be mental therapy. Walk with friends, too. Keep the conversation light and positive. Avoid discussing heavy times.
  6. Get beyond yourself. Think of someone who has a need and act on it. Send a card. Cook a meal for a friend in need.
  7. Understand that this is a lengthy process and it will be like taking baby steps.
  8. Smile a lot and soon your heart will be smiling as well.
  9. Participate actively in a Bible Study program at your church with an open heart. Maybe God will become real again.
  10. Journal. Express your feelings through writing. You can look back later and have a gauge for your progress.
  11. Learn from the knots and use them as a vehicle to become more highly evolved as a person. Embrace the silver and gold aspects. Use them as a pathway to ultimate happiness.
  12. Move forward…keep moving forward for yourself, your family and for your lost loved ones…
  13. Don’t be a Scarlett O’Hara and think about starting this grief survival plan tomorrow. Implement it today!

 


 

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