Hi, I’m Chris! Welcome to the Rock Bottom Rising community. I’m genuinely grateful to have you here. My goal is to share my journey, along with the stories, tools, and resources that have made a difference in my life, to help you navigate your own challenges. Together, we’ll find strength, support, and hope to rise above life’s toughest moments.

Here in Minnesota, we woke up to a bone-chilling -15°F on Sunday morning. The Winter Blues are hitting me hard, and staying positive feels like an uphill battle. My depression seems to be creeping back, and while I can’t point to any specific reason for feeling this low—things are objectively fine—I still can’t shake this sense of inadequacy. It’s like I’m falling short of my potential, slipping further behind.

My ADHD isn’t helping either; focus feels like an impossible task right now. Add to that the weight of everything negative happening in the world, and it’s no wonder I’m feeling so drained.

But deep down, I know this won’t last forever. As tough as it feels right now, this too shall pass.

-CP

Table of Contents

• Why Self-Compassion is the Ultimate Superpower

• Resource Spotlight

• Community Spotlight

• Weekly Inspiration

• Crisis Resources

• Next Week

• Mental Break

• Last Word

Let’s set the record straight: self-compassion isn’t about wallowing in self-pity with a soundtrack of tiny violins. It’s about giving yourself the kindness and grace you deserve—especially when life feels like it’s hurling lemons faster than you can make lemonade.

Being kind to yourself isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a game-changer. When you practice self-compassion, you stop merely surviving and start thriving. Let’s explore how to tap into this often-overlooked superpower.

What Is Self-Compassion, Anyway?

Imagine your best friend is having a rough day. Would you berate them or tell them to give up? Absolutely not! You’d offer a hug, some words of encouragement, and maybe a shared snack session. Now, flip the script: self-compassion is about extending that same understanding and kindness to yourself.

It’s acknowledging that everyone has bad days, quirks, and occasional faceplants into life’s challenges. (Spoiler: even the most seemingly perfect people do.) Self-compassion is about embracing your humanity, not criticizing it.

How to Harness the Power of Self-Compassion

Ready to add self-compassion to your daily routine? Here are simple, actionable ways to practice being kinder to yourself:

1. Pop the Pressure Balloon

When life gets overwhelming, it’s crucial to release the pressure. Here’s how:

• Take Your PTO: Use those vacation days! Rest isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. Trust me, your to-do list will wait.

• Accept Help: Saying yes when someone offers support is a strength, not a weakness. When I lost my car, a neighbor’s rides saved my sanity—and my toes from freezing.

2. Master the Art of the Polite "No"

People-pleasing is exhausting. Protect your energy by prioritizing your needs. Saying “no” isn’t selfish; it’s self-care.

3. Upgrade Your Inner Dialogue

Would you tell a friend, “Wow, you really messed that up”? Of course not. Speak to yourself with the same kindness and encouragement you’d offer them.

4. Rest Without Guilt

Recharging isn’t optional. Whether it’s a power nap, a Netflix marathon, or cloud-watching, give yourself permission to relax.

5. Cut Out Toxic Vibes

Limit time with people who drain your energy. Boundaries aren’t mean—they’re necessary.

Bonus Practices for a Self-Compassionate Life

• Embrace Your Quirks: Your love for cheesy rom-coms or habit of talking to plants? Own it. These are the little things that make you uniquely you.

• Practice Gratitude: A quick journal entry about what’s going right can shift your perspective.

• Move Your Body: Whether it’s dancing, yoga, or a brisk walk, exercise is a mood-booster.

• Nourish Your Soul: Engage in hobbies or activities that bring you joy.

• Seek Professional Help: Therapy isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a tool for growth and healing.

The Ripple Effect of Self-Compassion

When you’re kind to yourself, you become calmer, happier, and more present. The best part? You inspire others to do the same. By embracing self-compassion, you create a positive ripple effect in your relationships and beyond.

Your Journey Starts Now

Self-compassion isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Start small: celebrate your wins, set boundaries, and prioritize your well-being. With each step, you’re building a foundation for a more joyful, fulfilling life.

So go ahead—take that first step. Your future self will thank you.

What's your story?

Share your experience by emailing [email protected].

Your story can inspire others and remind them they're not alone.

Finding Hope in the Midst of Winter: Signs of Spring Ahead

Hi, everyone! As a fellow sufferer of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), I know how heavy the winter months can feel. I’m writing this from Ohio, about 40 degrees north latitude, where the cold and darkness tend to linger longer than we’d like. But today, a few small moments sparked something I haven’t felt in a while: hope.

I wanted to share these signs of brighter days ahead—maybe they’ll bring a little light to your winter, too.

1. A Robin’s Return

Stepping out for lunch today, I spotted a robin with its bright orange belly. While I know not all robins migrate far—some stick close to home—I’ve always associated them with spring. Seeing one in the middle of winter reminded me that change is coming. That little bird was like a tiny ambassador of hope, signaling that warmer days aren’t too far off.

2. Longer Days

The days are still short, but they’re getting noticeably longer. Today, the sun set at 5:29 PM—a welcome improvement from the 5:06 sunsets we had around Christmas. On my drive home at 6:00, there was still a hint of daylight lingering on the horizon.

It’s a small change, but it feels monumental when you’re in the thick of winter. Knowing that a month from now, the evenings will be even brighter is enough to give me a little extra energy to get through these darker days.

3. A Full Moon and Time Markers

Tonight, the full moon lit up the sky, and it struck me: we’re only one full moon away from mid-February. For me, that’s when I start to feel the grip of SAD loosen. Even better, we’re just two full moons away from the spring equinox.

I also like to remind myself of February’s little gift: we gain about 1-2 minutes of daylight each day. It may not seem like much, but those extra minutes add up quickly, making a big difference in how the world feels.

Finding Hope in the Small Things

I know it’s too early to pack away the heavy coats or celebrate spring’s arrival, but today felt like a reminder that winter doesn’t last forever. These small signs—a robin, a longer day, a full moon—gave me a flicker of hope, something I don’t usually feel this early in the year.

If you’re struggling, hang in there. The days are getting brighter, quite literally. Before long, the bigger signs of spring will be here: warmer air, budding trees, and the first flowers poking through the snow.

Until then, let’s take comfort in the small moments that remind us brighter days are just around the corner.

Feel free to share your own glimpses of hope—whether it’s a bird, a sunset, or a simple shift in how the air feels. We’re all in this together, and soon enough, spring will be here to greet us.

In the midst of the devastating Eaton Fire in Altadena, California, Antonio Antonetti emerged as a local hero. Armed with garden hoses, he tirelessly battled encroaching flames, successfully protecting seven homes in his neighborhood. His courageous actions not only saved properties but also showcased the profound impact of community solidarity during crises. Antonetti's selfless efforts serve as a powerful reminder of the difference one individual can make in the face of adversity.

To create a supportive community that provides hope, resources, and guidance for individuals recovering from life's lowest points, helping them rebuild and rediscover their strength through shared experiences and practical support.

Millions of people—of all ages and backgrounds, from all over the world—have experienced, are experiencing, or will experience hitting rock bottom at some point in their lives.

What does it mean to hit rock bottom? While some call it a midlife crisis, each person's experience is unique. It might be an overwhelming battle with depression or other mental health challenges. It might be severe financial hardship. It might be a marriage or relationship crumbling beyond repair. It might be an addiction that feels impossible to overcome. It may be the insurmountable grief from an unexpected loss. Often, it's a combination of these struggles.

Here’s what’s coming in next week’s newsletter.

• The Art of Letting Go: Freeing Yourself from Guilt and Regret

Thank you for sticking with me until the end—I genuinely appreciate it. I hope something I shared today resonated with you or offered value. If you have feedback, suggestions, a story to share, or an idea for contributing to this community, I’d love to hear from you! Feel free to reach out anytime at [email protected].

Your support means everything and helps this community thrive and grow. If you know someone who might benefit from this content, please pass it along! They can subscribe here: rockbottomrising.com/subscribe.

Together, we rise. 💛

-CP