Find Strength in a Topsy-Turvy World: How the Minions and I use Mental Health Warrior Mindset Rule 48
- Bruce Schutter
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
So, there I was, walking downtown, minding my own business, when I heard a commotion up ahead. Who did I see but the Minions—the whole crew—looking frazzled and, well, yellow as ever, but with an extra dose of worry in their big eyes.
It was clear they were on edge, jittery about the current events that seemed to have turned the world upside down.
Recognizing me, they waved me over with enthusiasm (and a dash of desperation), because apparently, they needed some Mental Health Warrior wisdom.
They know me pretty well by now; after all, we’ve had plenty of chats about my story—how, for 20 years, I struggled with Bipolar Disorder, Alcoholism, Anxiety Disorders, and PTSD. Those battles left me feeling so powerless that I tried to end my life. But after being given a second chance, I discovered something life-changing: mental health is the key to overcoming any challenge.
From that journey, I created the Mental Health Warrior Program—a new SELF-HELP approach designed to help anyone take charge of their emotions, triumph over challenges and build the life they truly want!
The Warrior Solution
Today, with a world filled with endless news updates, doom-scrolling, and general unrest, I was eager to share a warrior tool that’s been helping me a lot lately: Mindset Rules.
They’re designed to keep us emotionally centered and help us take bold action on our challenges—so we stay in charge of the day. In fact, I found them so powerful that I built an entire library of them in my book, 53 Mindset Rules of a Mental Health Warrior.
"And today," I told them, "I've got just the rule you need to find your strength in a topsy-turvy world: Mindset Rule 48 — When stuck in your head, move your body, and your mind will follow."
The Minions all blinked at me in unison, curious as ever. I went on to explain how this rule is my go-to whenever I’m feeling overwhelmed. I shared three real-world examples of how I use it—and, naturally, the Minions jumped in with their own (very Minion-esque) ideas for how they could apply it to their, shall we say, unique adventures.
Example 1: Break the “Doom-Scrolling” Cycle
First, I explained how it’s all too easy to get trapped in the loop of endless scrolling, or what people now call "doom scrolling." You know the feeling: you go online to check the weather, and suddenly, it’s three hours later, and you’re buried in a pit of depressing headlines.
For me, this habit can start to lead me down a dark path. I realized that when I move my body, I snap out of this cycle.
A simple walk around the room, or even stretching, helps me regain focus. The Minions nodded in understanding. “So,” I said, “when you’re getting caught up in one of Gru’s endless, rambling monologues or when you’re all piled around that tiny tablet watching world news, try this rule.”
Minion’s Takeaway:
Kevin, always the practical one, suggested, “So, we could, like…start dancing when things get too much?” The Minions all nodded in agreement and mimicked little dance moves on the spot.
Bob even twirled around a bit, realizing that a mid-scroll boogie might be the perfect way to shake off the blues.
Example 2: Power of Planning
Next, I told them that sometimes, emotions pile up—whether it’s from daily interactions, stressful news, or even just the general feeling that the world’s a bit off-kilter. When I start feeling overwhelmed, I use this rule to get moving but in a focused way.
The Minions listened intently. “If I’m feeling stuck, I build a plan, focusing on the things within my power,” I said. “It could be as simple as planning tomorrow’s to-do list or coming up with three small ways to make the day better.”
Minion’s Takeaway:
Stuart piped up, “We could do that with our missions! When Gru’s plan gets a little…out there, we can make a checklist to stay organized!” The rest of the Minions cheered, imagining themselves armed with clipboards and checklists as they tackled the challenges of the day.
I could practically see Bob giving motivational speeches to the others—stuffed bear in one hand, clipboard in the other.
Example 3: Nature Break—Extra Power
Finally, I told them, when I’m really struggling, I take this rule to the next level. I’ll head out for a workout or a long walk in nature. There’s something about the fresh air, the sun, and the sounds around me that helps me feel more grounded and less weighed down by whatever was bothering me.
The movement clears my mind and gives me a renewed sense of purpose—often before I even realize it.
Minion’s Takeaway:
Bob raised his hand, looking very serious. "And maybe find a park to run around in? Or play on the swings?"
The rest of the Minions burst out laughing, but I could tell they were all onboard with the plan. By the time I left, they were already plotting which park had the best slides—and debating whether they could fit in some ice cream afterward.
Either way, they were learning a Warrior truth: taking a nature break (and maybe a swing break) can help you reset and triumph over any challenge life throws your way.
Warrior Power for Every Day
With our discussion winding down, I could see the spark of empowerment lighting up their faces. We were just about to part ways, but I couldn’t resist sharing one final gift with my yellow friends. Reaching into my bag, I handed Kevin a copy of my book, 53 Mindset Rules of a Mental Health Warrior.
I told him this would be their go-to resource for managing stress, taking charge of their emotions, and staying focused on their adventures ahead.
The Minions held the book reverently—like it was a secret blueprint for world domination… or maybe just for better mental health. (For them, those might be the same thing.)
Wrap Up
With big smiles and waves, the Minions skipped off, clutching the book and chanting, “Mental Health Warriors!” as they bounced toward their next great escapade.
Watching them disappear down the street, I couldn’t help but chuckle. It was heartwarming to think that even in a world full of challenges, we can all find strength together—one Mindset Rule at a time.
So the next time you’re feeling frazzled by current events, remember the wisdom of Mindset Rule 48: When stuck in your head, move your body and your mind will follow.
With a few steps, a bit of laughter, and maybe a dance break or two, we can all find the strength to keep moving forward. After all, we’re Mental Health Warriors—unbreakable, unshakable, and always ready for the next adventure!
Bruce Schutter
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