Article by
KAYSOON KHOO
Problems, hardships and obstacles are unavoidable. They're an inevitable pattern of life. No mortal, no matter how rich or privileged he may be, can escape them.
When a problem presents itself, you have one or two alternatives. You can either solve it or live with it. If it cannot possibly be resolved or removed, then obviously there is no course left for you but to accept the inevitable.
Most problems, however, can be solved -- or at least eased. The trouble is, sometimes you go about it the wrong way. Let's see how you may best equip yourself to solve a problem.
The first thing is NOT to regard it as insurmountable. The minute you adopt this mindset, that particular problem becomes beyond your capability to cope. You become like a lame person who tries to climb Mount Everest.
If your mind keeps dwelling upon a problem -- just the problem, not its possible solution -- that problem worsens. Whatever its nature -- be it related to your finances, your work, your relationships or your health -- it always expands in proportion to the frequency AND intensity of your thoughts.
If you want to deal with that problem, put yourself in a proper frame of mind before you pick it up. A proper frame of mind means banishing emotions like worry, anger, fear and other negative feelings. It means tuning into that wavelength of calmness and inner equilibrium.
Different people have different ways of achieving that frame of mind. Some resort to prayer or meditation, some use positive affirmations and some fall back on rational thinking. If possible, talk to someone, especially a person who is competent to help or advise you. Use the method that works best for you.
Problems are supposed to toughen you and make you stronger, wiser and more resilient. They can also broaden your sympathies by helping you empathise better with those who go through the same ordeal.
Don't be afraid to face the problems you encounter on the battlefield of life. You can't overcome an adversary whom you're afraid to meet head-on.
