I never considered myself to be one who danced to the beat of my own drum. Growing up, I was always in line, always following the crowd. It was only when life threw me some unpredictable curveballs that I realized the power of two magical words: Whatever helps.
Let's rewind a bit. Two years ago, I found myself lying in a
hammock on a remote island, listening to the soothing hum of nature, and
surprisingly, enjoying a sandwich made of peanut butter and pickles. Yes, you
read that right. Peanut butter and pickles. Why? Because, in that moment, it
was whatever helped.
The Art of Letting Go
Post a tumultuous breakup, a job loss, and a short-lived yet
haunting existential crisis, I felt unanchored. Every conventional
"solution" — from binge-watching self-help videos to following the
latest 10-step success plan — left me feeling emptier than before.
And then, in a moment of sheer frustration, I threw away the
rulebook and embraced my own quirky coping mechanisms. I danced in my living
room wearing socks and a hat (and nothing else). I painted my feelings on a
canvas using only my fingers. And yes, I made that aforementioned sandwich.
Whatever helped.
The Power of "Whatever Helps"
Now, I’m not advocating for a life without guidance or
rules. What I am proposing, however, is the beauty in sometimes just letting
things be. The beauty in doing what feels right for you, even if it doesn't
make sense to others.
- It
Fosters Creativity: When you're not bound by societal norms or others’
expectations, you give your creativity the space it needs to bloom. You
try new things. You experiment. You surprise yourself.
- It
Heals: Sometimes, healing doesn't come from a well-practiced yoga pose
or a perfectly recited affirmation. Sometimes, it's in the simple moments,
like watching your favorite childhood cartoon or singing off-key to a 90s
hit.
- It
Empowers: Each time you honor your feelings and needs, you send a
powerful message to yourself: "I am valid. My feelings are
valid."
My Challenge to You
Next time you find yourself spiraling, or unsure, or just in
need of a little joy, I challenge you to ask: "What will help me right
now?" And then, without judgment, do just that.
Whether it's dancing like a goofball, taking a nap in the
middle of the day, or yes, even making that weird sandwich combination you've
been curious about — do it. Embrace it.
And when someone questions your unconventional methods or
raises an eyebrow at your choices, you just smile and say, "It's whatever
helps."
Remember, life's too short for undue rigidity. Sometimes,
the quirky, unexpected solutions are the ones that bring us the most joy.
#WhateverHelps
