Life often throws us unexpected challenges, but having the right tools can help us navigate the toughest times. From practicing deep breathing to reflecting on past resilience, I’ve learned how to cope through personal experiences of layoffs, heartbreak, and uncertainty. These 10 coping mechanisms, which range from self-care to creating actionable plans, remind us that healing is possible—and that, with time, things do get better.

If I had to guess, you’ve probably been there too. Maybe you didn’t think you worked hard enough to deserve that promotion. Perhaps you blamed yourself when your partner was unkind or believed you didn’t deserve that little treat because you missed a workout. Maybe you felt guilty about taking an hour for yourself because you didn’t finish tasks for your kids. But now, something’s changed. Why now? For me, I simply got tired of feeling unworthy. I started asking, “Why can’t I just have what I want without feeling like I have to overwork or ‘earn it’?”