"Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness."- Desmond Tutu, Bishop, Theologian, Human Rights Activist
I get why folks aren't feeling it. Why have hope in these times we are living in? Well, for one, hope is actually scientifically proven to help us. If for no other reason, hope may be able to improve our life as we move into 2025.
There's a lot standing in the way of hope right now. Yet when I think about the fact that we're all here waking up to a new day (and new year), I can't help but have hope. Like buried treasure, some days I have to dig very deep to find just a little of it, but its value is undeniable. I want to explore hope today, at a time when it's much needed and seemingly in scarce supply.
What is Hope, Exactly?
There are plenty of definitions and meanings for the word hope, but I experience it more as a state. A lightness about the future and what can be. It's a state that helps me to keep moving forward, despite the darkness I might be experiencing.
From a strict definition perspective, hope has been described as a "psychological construct" or "an optimistic outlook." However you define it, what does hope look like for you? How does your body feel when you are experiencing hope? What's your breathing like? Observe yourself when you are feeling hopeful so you can identify and remember that state.
Where Does Hope Come From?
If you're religious (specifically Christian), you likely have an easy answer to that question. Maybe God, or faith, or the Bible. You have a foundation from which hope springs.
There's also something within us that engenders hope. According to Wikipedia, hope "is an optimistic state of mind that is based on an expectation of positive outcomes with respect to events and circumstances in one's life or the world at large. As a verb, its definitions include: 'expect with confidence' and 'to cherish a desire with anticipation [italics mine].'"
Understanding hope is a state of mind gives us the realization that it's something we can change. Often you'll hear someone say, "that's just the way I'm wired," or "that's just the way it is." In reality, though, it's something that can be changed. A pessimist can be more optimistic. And lack of hope can be transformed. It's a matter of changing our state.
Why Should I Have Hope?
There's lots of studies about the benefits of hope, including things like:
Improved immune function
Decreased pain
Lower levels of, and protection from, depression and anxiety
Lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease and other chronic conditions
Reduced feelings of helplessness
Increased happiness
Reduced stress, and more.
But having hope isn't about forcing yourself to feel differently. It's about acknowledging what you're feeling, accepting it, and still choosing to feel hopeful. Finding reasons to have hope is doing that digging to find the hidden treasure.
How Can I Be More Hopeful?
There's lots of ways to cultivate hope. Here are a few things to try:
Take a break from negative input - Quit doomscrolling, turn off the news for a bit, or even just be conscious of what you're allowing into your thoughts.
Do something for someone else - Even a small act of kindness can inspire hope. Maybe do something for a neighbor or family member that they'd appreciate.
Express gratitude - Think of the things you are grateful for, and dwell in that. Savor those things that bring you joy.
Plan an activity you look forward to - Studies show that just planning an activity like a vacation or trip gives you positive benefits. Even planning something like a small outing with family and friends can give you hope.
I know you'll find it, friend.
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