What Friends Need to Hear to Get Through Hardship

We asked our Facebook community, "What would  you tell a friend who is very disappointed about the state of her life?" Here are some of their thoughtful insights:

Nancy Lazarus Taylor: Forgive the self that got her into this place, embrace that part and together chart a new path. It's hard, but it's a journey you must take with forgiveness, compassion and love.

BJ Dowlen: Volunteer to help the less fortunate. It restores your soul.

Sandi Schwartz Neiman: Make a commitment to make small changes that bring you happiness! Take stock of what you have, let whatever doesn't serve you anymore go and set some small, achievable goals that you can celebrate. One day at a time.

Taresa Mikle Currently: I'd just encourage them to hold on and tell them that things WILL get better. Life is full of trials and triumphs, but we've got to keep a positive, resilient attitude!

Alyson Miller-Greenfield: Don't be afraid of letting go of what does not serve and starting over!!!

Kevin Hutchens: I would listen to them, praise and encourage them for all their skills and abilities and remind them tomorrow is another day.

Julie Jakopic: Take a deep breath, be gentle with yourself, and just take one small step forward and then another.

Sally Smith: Make a gratitude list and then make a list of things that aren't so great that you'd like to change. Make small changes every day/week and keep a gratitude journal.

Elaine Crocker: Have courage to change what you can, accept what you cannot and have the wisdom to know the difference.

Marilyn Justice: Today is your new beginning.

Karen Bowman: Life gets better.

Vane Solis: All passes. Work for better things. This is a phase.