Life isn’t always smooth sailing. I was late to experience the turmoil of a rough boat ride and was lucky to be able to escape. We all encounter setbacks, heartbreaks, failures, and moments where the world’s weight feels unbearable. The key to maintaining inner peace isn’t about avoiding these challenges (in some extreme cases, yes) but primarily it’s about how we choose to react and navigate through or around them.
It’s so easy to spiral when negativity surrounds us—when people disappoint us, when opportunities don’t pan out, or when the past or current situation is haunting or daunting our lives. However, inner peace isn’t about pretending everything is fine (something I can do VERY well). It’s about creating a space where, no matter what happens externally, you remain grounded in your values and where you stand. Here are some of my biggest tips based on experience:
1. Acknowledge and Process, Don’t Suppress
Many of us are programmed, even subconsciously to “keep it moving” and “stay strong,” but suppressing emotions only leads to more chaos internally. It’s okay to be upset. It’s very much okay to cry. It’s okay to FEEL. The difference between inner peace and inner turmoil lies in how we process those emotions.
- Journaling can be a great way to unpack emotions and identify patterns.
- Meditation and mindfulness help bring awareness to the present instead of dwelling on the past or future.
- Therapy provides a judgment-free space to navigate emotions with professional guidance.
2. Seek Professional Help When Needed
Inner peace sometimes requires external support. Therapy isn’t just for moments of crisis; it’s a tool for self-awareness, healing, and growth. A good therapist can help you work through unresolved trauma, build healthy coping strategies, and provide a fresh perspective.
For some, medication is also a helpful tool in managing anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions. There’s no shame in getting the help you need. If your peace is constantly disrupted by overwhelming emotions, intrusive thoughts, or deep sadness, speaking to a mental health professional is a powerful act of self-care.
3. Lean on Your Support System
One of the biggest mistakes we make when struggling is isolating ourselves. (I have done this) The truth is, none of us were meant to do life alone. Whether it’s friends, family, a mentor, or a community, having people who genuinely care about you makes a difference.
- Be honest about how you feel. Sometimes, just saying things out loud or writing it releases the burden.
- Surround yourself with positive energy. The people in your circle should uplift, not drain, you.
- Know that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. You don’t have to face anything alone.
4. Prioritize Self-Care Without Guilt
Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Your body and mind need rest, nourishment, and moments of joy.
- Physical movement (whether it’s yoga, dancing, walking, or fitness) helps regulate emotions and improve mental health.
- Creative outlets (music, art, writing, singing, writing, or practically any hobby) give you an escape and a way to express yourself.
- Spiritual practices (prayer, meditation, gratitude) keep you connected to something bigger than yourself. (I’m Catholic and I pray for myself, family, and friends, near and far quite often)
Permit yourself to recharge without feeling guilty about choosing YOU. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
5. Set Boundaries and Let Go of What No Longer Serves You
This is difficult if you come from a complicated family dynamic or culture. Or this can be quite easy and just the thing you need to read. Protecting your peace means learning when to confidently say no—no to toxic relationships, and environments, no to overextending yourself, no to situations that drain your energy. Not everything and everyone deserves access to you. Practice this in the mirror daily.
It also means releasing what no longer serves you. Resentment, grudges, and dwelling on the past only keep you stuck. Forgiveness isn’t just about excusing someone else’s actions; it’s about freeing yourself from carrying the weight of what they did. (I don’t forget but I forgive, and as MLK said “Hate is too heavy a burden to bear”)
6. Keep a Bigger Perspective
Everything you’re going through right now is just a chapter, not the entire book. Some chapters may seem like it has no ending in sight. So when things feel overwhelming, take a step back and try to remind yourself:
- This is temporary.
- You’ve survived every hard day before this.
- You are growing through what you are going through.
Peace isn’t found in a perfect life but in the way you choose to show up for yourself, even in the hard moments.
My Final Thoughts
Inner peace is an ongoing journey, not a destination. As some say they are “healing…. not healed” A peaceful life is about trying to create a mindset and a lifestyle that allows you to remain calm even when life isn’t on the same wavelength. Whether that means therapy, medication, self-care, or simply leaning on your social circle and loved ones, find whatever works for you.
Most importantly, never go through anything alone. You are never as alone as your mind may sometimes make you feel. There are people out there who genuinely care, understand, and are willing to walk with you through whatever you’re facing. Reach out, hold on, and keep choosing peace—because you deserve it.
Limitations begin in the mind… be limitless.