It was an ordinary Saturday afternoon downtown when I stumbled upon Winnie the Pooh and his entire gang from the Hundred Acre Wood. But instead of their usual cheerful selves, they looked downright glum. Pooh’s honey jar was sealed, Eeyore’s tail was dragging more than usual, and even Tigger, the bounciest tiger in existence, was sitting on a bench, staring at his paws.
“Pooh! What’s going on?” I asked. “Oh, Bruce,” Pooh said with a heavy sigh, “everything’s just so... so much. The news is gloomy, honey prices are through the roof, and we all feel... well... stuck.”
I nodded sympathetically. “I get it. Life can feel overwhelming, especially when current events pile on top of personal challenges. Believe me, I’ve been there.”
The group looked at me expectantly, knowing a story was coming. They’d heard about my 20+ years of struggling with Bipolar, Alcoholism, Anxiety Disorders, and PTSD. They also knew about my darkest day, when I hit rock bottom and tried to end my life. But they also knew what came next: a second chance and a realization that mental health was the key to triumphing over life’s challenges.
That realization had led me to create the Mental Health Warrior Program—a new SELF-HELP approach designed to empower everyone to take charge of their mental health and build the life they really want.
“Well,” I said, looking at their droopy faces, “it’s time for some Motivation, Motivation, Motivation! Let me share three ways to give yourself a Mental Health Warrior boost when life feels heavy.”
Step 1: Remember You’re Not Powerless—Take Action!
“First things first,” I began. “The Mental Health Warrior Program is a self-help approach, which means you’re in control. If things feel tough, you can increase your effort at any time and see greater results. You’re not powerless. When you hit tough days, carve out extra time to take care of yourself. Use some Mental Health Warrior tools, and you’ll start to feel the payoff.”
Pooh and Friends Takeaway:
Pooh tilted his head thoughtfully. “So, if I’m feeling particularly glum, I could take a little extra time to do something nice for myself, like organizing my honey pots?” “Exactly!” I said. “Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. The important thing is recognizing that you have the power to make a difference in your day.”
Tigger perked up, his ears twitching. “Does that mean I could go bounce around the meadow for a bit? Bouncing always clears my head!” “Absolutely,” I replied. “The key is action. When you move, physically or mentally, you break the cycle of feeling stuck. Action creates momentum, and momentum changes everything.”
Step 2: Reflect on Your Progress
“Next,” I continued, “think about how far you’ve come. No matter where you are on your journey, you’ve already made progress just by committing to being a Mental Health Warrior. If you’re feeling down today, remind yourself that it’s just one day in a bigger journey. Progress—even small progress—is powerful motivation.”
Pooh and Friends Takeaway:
Eeyore’s ears twitched. “I have been less gloomy since I started using the program. I even smiled last Tuesday... I think.” “That’s the spirit, Eeyore!” I said. “Remember, it’s not about perfection—it’s about progress. Even tiny steps forward matter. Reflecting on those wins can remind you that today’s struggle is just a bump in the road.”
Piglet piped up, his little voice quivering with excitement. “So, if I’m feeling scared today, I could think about how I’ve been brave before?” “Exactly, Piglet. Think about those moments when you stepped out of your comfort zone and succeeded. Let those memories fuel your courage to take another step forward.”
Step 3: Go Have Some Fun
“And finally,” I said with a grin, “don’t forget why you’re doing all this work. The goal isn’t just to survive the day—it’s to thrive. That means finding joy, even in small moments. When you’re feeling down, take a little time to do something fun. Fun is the ultimate reminder that you’re in charge, not your challenges.”
Pooh and Friends Takeaway:
Pooh perked up at this. “So... you’re saying I should take a break and have a picnic with my friends?” “Exactly, Pooh. Fun doesn’t have to be extravagant. It’s about reminding yourself why life is worth living. It gives you something to look forward to and helps you recharge.”
Rabbit, who had been listening intently, nodded thoughtfully. “I suppose I could spend some time in my garden. Pulling weeds always makes me feel accomplished—and I do enjoy a nice carrot afterward.” “That’s perfect, Rabbit!” I said. “The point is to create moments of joy that remind you of the bigger picture. Life isn’t just about challenges—it’s about the experiences and connections that make it meaningful.”
The Gang Gets Motivated
As I wrapped up my pep talk, the Hundred Acre Wood gang looked noticeably brighter. Pooh’s brow had un-furrowed, Tigger was bouncing in place, and even Eeyore seemed a little less... well, Eeyore-ish. “I think I’ll go organize my honey pots now,” Pooh said, his voice full of determination. “And maybe plan a picnic for tomorrow.”
“I’m off to the meadow!” Tigger announced, already mid-bounce. “Gotta bounce the blues away!”
Piglet turned to Rabbit. “Do you think we could garden together? It might be nice to have company.” “I’d like that,” Rabbit said, a small smile breaking through his usually stern expression.
Eeyore looked at me with his signature droopy gaze but said, “Thanks, Bruce. I think I’ll take a walk and look for my tail. It’s been missing for a while.” “Great plan, Eeyore,” I said. “And remember, you’re a Mental Health Warrior. You’ve got this.”
Wrapping It Up
As the gang dispersed, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride. They were heading off with a renewed sense of purpose and motivation to tackle their day—not just to survive but to thrive!
For me, the moment was a reminder of why I created the Mental Health Warrior Program. Life’s challenges are inevitable, but with the right mindset and tools, we can face them head-on and come out stronger!
So, the next time you’re feeling down, remember motivation, progress, and fun aren’t just buzzwords—they’re lifelines that keep us moving forward, one step at a time. Life might be challenging, but it’s also full of opportunities to thrive—and you have the power to make the most of them!
Bruce Schutter
Creator of Mental Health Warrior Program and Challenge Coin
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