Beating the Baby Boomer Blues
by Amy Sherman, LMHC

Sometimes when you feel overwhelmed, overtaxed, overwrought and over-the-top, you also feel the blues. It’s not surprising that thoughts automatically come into your head, telling you that you can’t do it, or that you should be afraid of what lies ahead. Negative emotions interfere with the natural joy of life and these unhelpful thoughts tend to linger and not leave. When this happens, you can actually ask yourself some important questions, which may help you come to terms with your feelings, release them and actually turn things around.

1. What evidence is there that I should feel this way? Am I jumping to conclusions? Do I have all the facts at this time or are these thoughts distorted?

2. How else can I look at what’s happening? Are there alternative ways of thinking?

3. Am I taking things too personally? Am I expecting myself to be perfect?

4. Am I falling into the pity-party state of mind? If so, what advantages are there for thinking this way? What are the disadvantages?

The key to overcoming your negative emotions and to restoring balance again lies in learning to challenge your doubts and fears. Let things go to gain faith in your restorative ability. If you KNOW you’ll get through whatever challenges you face, you will see solutions instead of problems and opportunities instead of battles in the road ahead.

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Amy Sherman, LMHC, is a licensed mental health counselor in private practice. Amy is the author of the ebook, “Distress-Free Aging: A Boomer’s Guide to Creating a Fulfilled and Purposeful Life” and “The Joy of Optimism 10-Lesson eCourse. Visit www.bummedoutboomer.com to learn more about boomer issues and to receive a Special Report on Overcoming Adversity when you sign up for her FREE newsletter. Contact her by email at amy@bummedoutboomer.com or by phone at 561) 281-2975