The other day, I was feeling the weight of my mental health challenges—Bipolar, Alcoholism, Anxiety Disorder, and PTSD, the kind of weight that makes it feel like you’re carrying around an anvil in your chest. In an attempt to shake off the heaviness, I decided to take a long walk in the park, hoping that the fresh air and nature would help clear my head.
As I strolled through the park, deep in thought, I suddenly noticed a commotion ahead. To my surprise, there they were — the Minions from the movies — practicing their usual antics, but this time, free-form style. Apparently, they needed the space of the park to really let loose. We exchanged glances, and it was clear we were all there for the same reason: to recharge and emotionally center ourselves.
Naturally, we decided to take a break together. Sitting down on a bench, I shared with the Minions something that had been on my mind: the Mental Health Warrior Creed of "Bend Not Break." I explained how I was working to apply it that day, to help me avoid breaking under the pressure of my struggles and to steer clear of short-term, ineffective solutions that had failed me in the past.
The Minions’ eyes lit up with excitement. They immediately started chattering away, all excited because, as it turns out, they were already familiar with the Warrior Creed and my Mental Health Warrior Program! Who knew the Minions were so well-read? They offered to help by sharing three ways they themselves use the Warrior Creed when they’re struggling. I could hardly believe it—here I was, getting advice from the Minions!
Lesson 1: Embrace the Wobble
The first thing the Minions told me was how they embrace the wobble. You know, that moment when you’re about to lose balance but somehow manage to stay upright? They explained that life’s challenges often make them feel like they’re teetering on the edge, but instead of fearing the wobble, they embrace it. They see it as a sign that they’re pushing their limits and growing stronger.
Your Turn:
When life throws you off balance, don’t panic. Remember that wobbling doesn’t mean you’re failing; it means you’re adapting. Embrace the uncertainty, and allow yourself to wobble as you find your footing again.
Lesson 2: Use Humor as Armor
Next, the Minions shared how they use humor as armor. No matter how tough things get, they always find a way to laugh at themselves and the situation. This not only lightens the mood but also keeps them resilient. “If you can laugh, you can survive,” they said, which, coming from a bunch of yellow, banana-loving creatures, makes a lot of sense.
Your Turn:
When faced with challenges, try to find the humor in the situation. Even if it’s just a small chuckle at something absurd, laughter can provide you with the mental space needed to think clearly and stay strong. Humor doesn’t solve problems, but it makes the journey a lot more bearable.
Lesson 3: Rely on Your Tribe
Finally, the Minions emphasized the importance of relying on your tribe. They never face challenges alone; they always have each other’s backs. Whether they’re building something ridiculous or causing chaos, they do it together, and that camaraderie is what keeps them from breaking under pressure.
Your Turn:
Remember that you don’t have to face your challenges alone. Lean on your friends, family, or any support network you have. Just like the Minions, having a tribe means you can share the load, and together, you can handle anything that comes your way.
Time to Head Out
Feeling incredibly inspired by the Minions' insights, I decided to join them for some acrobatics. Let’s just say it was less of an Olympic performance and more of a “watch the human try not to fall on his face” kind of situation. I might have managed a half-decent cartwheel, but when the Minions suggested a triple backflip, I politely declined.
Still, the energy, laughter, and sheer ridiculousness of our antics were exactly what I needed. As we all caught our breath and laughed off the near misses (and a few actual misses), I realized that this lighthearted moment was a powerful reminder of how much we gain by sharing and helping each other out.
We eventually parted ways, each heading off on our own paths—me, back home, and the Minions, likely off to some other mischief. But as I walked home, I carried with me their lessons: to embrace the wobble, use humor as armor, and rely on my tribe. Armed with these insights, I tackled the rest of the day with renewed energy and managed every challenge that came my way without breaking.
Remember Minion Wisdom
Who knew that a bunch of banana-loving Minions could be such Mental Health Warriors? Maybe next time, I’ll try that triple backflip—on second thought, maybe not!
But one thing’s for sure: with a bit of humor, a strong tribe, and the willingness to use the warrior creed of “Bend Not Break”, we can all find our way through life’s challenges, one wobbly step at a time.
Bruce Schutter
(Creator of the Mental Health Warrior Program and Challenge Coin)
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