Find Strength in a Topsy-Turvy World: With Help From the Minions and Mindset Rule 48
- Bruce Schutter
- Jul 14
- 5 min read
So, there I was, walking downtown, minding my own business, when I heard a commotion up ahead. Who did I see but the Minions—the whole crew—looking frazzled and, well, yellow as ever, but with an extra dose of worry in their big eyes.
It was clear they were on edge, jittery about the current events that seemed to have turned the world upside down.
Recognizing me, they waved me over with enthusiasm (and a dash of desperation), because apparently, they needed some Mental Health Warrior wisdom.
They know me pretty well by now; after all, we’ve had plenty of chats about my story—how, for 20 years, I struggled with Bipolar, Alcoholism, Anxiety Disorders and PTSD. Those battles left me feeling so powerless that I tried to end my life. But in that dark time, I discovered something life-changing: mental health is the key to overcoming any challenge.
With that realization, I created the Mental Health Warrior Program—a bold new SELF-HELP approach that puts YOU in charge! So you can take charge of your emotions, triumph over challenges and build the life you really want!
The Warrior Solution
Today, in a world overflowing with endless news updates, doom-scrolling, and general unrest, I was eager to share a Warrior tool that’s been helping me a lot lately: Mindset Rules.
These rules are designed to keep us emotionally centered and help us take bold action on our challenges — so we stay in charge of the day, not the other way around. In fact, I found them so powerful that I built an entire library of them in my book, 53 Mindset Rules of a Mental Health Warrior.
"And today," I told them, "I’ve got just the rule you need to find your strength in a topsy-turvy world: Mindset Rule 48 — When stuck in your head, move your body, and your mind will follow."
The Minions all blinked at me in unison, curious as ever. So I went on to explain how this rule is my go-to whenever I’m feeling overwhelmed — and shared three real-world examples of how I’ve used it to shift my mindset.
Naturally, the Minions couldn’t resist jumping in with their own (very Minion-esque) ideas for how they could apply it to their, let’s say… unique adventures.
Example 1: Break the “Doom-Scrolling” Cycle
First, I explained how easy it is to get trapped in the loop of endless scrolling — or what people now call doom-scrolling.
You know the feeling: you go online to check the weather, and suddenly it’s three hours later and you’re buried in a pit of depressing headlines.
For me, this habit can lead me down a dark path fast. That’s when I discovered that simply moving my body helps me snap out of it.
Even just walking around the room or stretching for a minute or two helps me regain focus and take back control of my mood.
The Minions nodded in understanding.
"So," I said, "when you’re caught up in one of Gru’s endless, rambling monologues — or when you’re all piled around that tiny tablet watching world news — try this rule. Get up. Move. Break the cycle."
Minion’s Takeaway:
Kevin, ever the practical one, raised his hand and suggested, "So… we could, like… start dancing when things get too much?"
Minions all nodded and, without hesitation, started busting out little dance moves on the spot.
Bob even twirled around dramatically, clearly realizing that a mid-scroll boogie just might be the perfect way to shake off the blues.
Example 2: Power of Planning
Next, I explained how emotions can pile up — whether from daily interactions, stressful news, or just the general feeling that the world’s a little off-kilter.
When I start feeling overwhelmed, I use this rule to get moving — but in a focused way.
The Minions leaned in, listening intently.
"If I’m feeling stuck, I build a plan — focusing only on what’s within my power," I said. "It could be as simple as planning tomorrow’s to-do list, or coming up with three small ways to make the day better."
Minion’s Takeaway:
Stuart piped up: "We could do that with our missions! When Gru’s plan gets a little… out there, we can make a checklist to stay organized and moving forward!"
The rest of the Minions erupted in cheers, already imagining themselves armed with clipboards and marching into action.
I could practically see Bob giving motivational speeches — stuffed bear in one hand, clipboard in the other.
Example 3: Nature Break—Extra Power
Finally, I shared how, when I’m really struggling, I take this rule to the next level.
I head outside for a workout or a long walk in nature. There’s something about the fresh air, the sunlight, and the natural sounds that helps me feel more grounded — and less weighed down by whatever was bothering me.
The movement clears my mind and gives me a renewed sense of purpose — often before I even realize it.
Minion’s Takeaway:
Bob raised his hand, looking unusually serious."And maybe… find a park to run around in? Or play on the swings?"
The rest of the Minions burst out laughing, but I could tell they were all onboard.
By the time I left, they were already plotting which park had the best slides — and debating whether they could fit in some ice cream afterward.
Either way, they were learning a Warrior truth: taking a nature break (and maybe a swing break) can help you reset and triumph over any challenge life throws your way.
Warrior Power for Every Day
As our discussion wound down, I could already see the spark of empowerment lighting up their faces.
We were just about to part ways, but I couldn’t resist sharing one final gift with my yellow friends. Reaching into my bag, I handed Kevin a copy of my book, 53 Mindset Rules of a Mental Health Warrior.
"This," I told him, "will be your go-to resource for managing stress, taking charge of your emotions, and staying focused on your adventures ahead."
The Minions held the book reverently — like it was a secret blueprint for world domination… or maybe just for better mental health. (For them, those might be the same thing.)
Wrap Up
With big smiles and waves, the Minions skipped off, clutching the book and chanting, "Mental Health Warriors!" as they bounced toward their next great escapade.
Watching them disappear down the street, I couldn’t help but chuckle. It was heartwarming to realize that even in a world full of challenges, we can all find strength — together — one Mindset Rule at a time.
So the next time you’re feeling frazzled by current events, remember the wisdom of Mindset Rule 48: When stuck in your head, move your body, and your mind will follow.
With a few steps, a little laughter, and maybe even a spontaneous dance break, we can all find the strength to keep moving forward.
After all, we’re Mental Health Warriors — unbreakable, unshakable, and always ready for the next adventure!
Bruce Schutter
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