Life challenges are inevitable. At times, the trials even seem overwhelming. We cannot help but feel helpless and hopeless.

Communication professor, life coach, author and TV personality Dr. Carol Morgan, founder of the dating and relationship website HerSideHisSide.com, believes that shifting perspectives allows one to overcome these adversities.

“We’ve all gone through hard times. And we all get through them. However, some get through them better than others,” Morgan started. “So, what is their secret? Most of it has to do with attitude.”

Echoing Morgan, the Benilde Well-Being Center (BWC) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde wishes to guide others to foster positive thinking and optimistic behavior, as well as maximize their overall happiness.

Here are 13 reminders to keep in mind:

1. What it is.

Suffering only occurs when we resist. If you can affect an aspect, take action. You must accept and let go when the situation is certainly beyond your control.

2. It’s only a problem if you think it’s a problem.

At times, we are our own worst enemy. Instead of breeding negative thoughts and emotions, think of it as an educational experience.

3. Start within yourself.

Your inner being reflects your outer world. We initially need to transform ourselves first to change our circumstances.

4. There are no failures – only learning opportunities.

Achievers have ‘failed’ over and over. But instead of considering these as letdowns, they did better next time around.

5. Better opportunities are coming.

In hindsight, you will be able to see why some prospects did not work out.

6. Appreciate the present.

Every moment is precious and will never come again. Even those that didn’t seem particularly happy can be looked upon as a nostalgic memory someday.

7. Let go of desire.

Most covet a goal when they don’t get it. Their emotions plummet into negativity. Practice a ‘detached mind’: when you have an aim, be happy whether you achieve it or not.

8. Understand and be grateful for your fears.

Fear can be a great teacher. Overcoming them just needs practice. It can likewise make you feel victorious.

9. Allow yourself to experience joy.

Some are too immersed in their problems that they would not even know who they are without them. Allow yourself to be happy – even for a brief moment. Focus on your joy, not your hardships.

10. Do not compare yourself to others.

Be grateful for what you have instead.

11. You are not a victim.

You are the creator of your own experience. You can get out of your hard times. Start with your own thoughts and actions.

12. Things can and do change.

When stuck in a bad situation, we think there is no way out. You need to take action to achieve results. ‘And this too shall pass’.

13. All is possible.

Miracles happen every day. You just need to believe it does. Once you do, you have already won the battle.