Sometimes life seems to hit us hard and knock us off our feet. Things don’t go as planned, because our lives have always been—and will always be—unpredictable.

When this happens, many people feel like they have no control over anything (and it’s important to recognize this feeling).

So, what does science (cognitive behavioral psychology) suggest we do in such situations?

It says that when we feel sad and disappointed about our lives, we tend to hold ourselves back and withdraw from others and from life in general. We start talking to ourselves like: “Why even try? This is never going to get better.”

So, the right thing to do is to focus on living today and restore optimism and hope by paying attention to the present moment. 

Ask yourself: 

• How would you like to spend today?
• What will be the first step to live more fully today?

You can simply create something not for the result, but for the process to enjoy.

Unexpected changes are an inevitable part of life, but they don’t have to define us. Even in moments of uncertainty, we still have the ability to choose how we respond—by turning toward the present, taking small meaningful steps, and reconnecting with ourselves.

Through awareness, simple daily actions, and creative expression like art, we can gradually shift from feeling powerless to feeling engaged again.

Remember, you don’t need to have everything figured out. Sometimes, it’s enough to just live this day, take one step, and allow hope to return—quietly, but steadily.