Sometimes, in life, things happen. There might have been events that you possibly did not want to happen and has caused unhealthy disruption in your day-to-day life. I, myself, am not a stranger to disruptions. From toxic relationships to life-altering circumstances to medical conditions, I’m not a stranger to bad news. All the more, I’ve gone through the whole journey in terms of self-regulating– from not being able to manage, to managing unhealthily, and to managing stably.
They say that bouncing back after a disruption is a superpower. To power through in spite of all the reasons not to is simply extraordinary in itself. Let me let you in on a secret. The reason I get to effectively self-regulate is because of this: the constant renewal of the mind.
They say that perception is key to survival and I agree that it is. But, what I mean about the renewal of the mind is simply not linked to brainwashing or any form of gaslighting. I’m simply referring to reverting back to God’s Word every time there is any form of difficulty or challenge I am facing.
In spite of self-regulation entailing the ability to control your own thoughts, emotions, and behaviour without depending on an external authority, some would still consider reconvening with the Lord as such. Furthermore, here are tips to help you better self-regulate:
1. Acknowledge what you’re going through
One of the most unhealthy ways of coping with what you’re going through is by trying to avoid it. One can avoid by means of distracting yourself with tasks or events in order to set aside any negative feeling or emotion. You might be seemingly okay on the surface, but deep inside, you keep on shoving all your emotions underneath it all. This is not, at all, the right way to handle your emotions, thoughts, or behavior.
Philippians 4:8 (NIV)
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true…think about such things.”
Being a Christian does not exempt you from having problems. All the more, the Bible equips you to be able to regulate effectively and to handle your emotions well. In Philippians 4:8, we are encouraged to think about whatever is true and to act accordingly; the verse goes on into thinking about whatever is noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable. But, everything starts with thinking about what is true.
2. Seek God’s Resolution
Everything happens for a reason. Some happen merely because of a cause-and-effect scenario. I’m not justifying that bad things happened to you because of good reasons. Although all things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purposes, the Bible is not some manual for you to throw around Bible verses like band aid. Sometimes, God would have you weep and acknowledge the wrong you see in the world; it’s okay to be angry about the injustices you see. But self-regulating is not just about having the right perception on a given circumstance, it’s accepting God’s reasoning, hand, and point of action amidst it. Seeking God’s resolution about it, whatever it may be, can give you the peace you’re so desperately longing for.
3. Pray
Philippians 4:6-7
6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
God is not burdened by your requests or prayers. He is delighted when you go to Him; it suggests that you depend on Him. Our heavenly Father welcomes you; pray.
Self-regulation is a must, nowadays. In a world where constant stressors exist, it’s important to self-regulate to function on a day-to-day basis.
I hope these key takeaways share some Biblical insights on the importance of self-regulation and how to further carry it out.