The other day, I was feeling the weight of my mental health challenges—Bipolar, Alcoholism, Anxiety Disorder, and PTSD, the kind of weight that makes it feel like you’re carrying around an anvil in your chest. In an attempt to shake off the heaviness, I decided to take a long walk in the park, hoping that the fresh air and nature would help clear my head.
As I strolled through the park, deep in thought, I suddenly noticed a commotion ahead. To my surprise, there they were—the Minions from the movies—practicing their usual antics, but this time, free-form style. Apparently, they needed the space of the park to really let loose. We exchanged glances, and it was clear we were all there for the same reason: to recharge and emotionally center ourselves.
Naturally, we decided to take a break together. Sitting down on a bench, I shared something that had been on my mind with the Minions: the Mental Health Warrior Creed, “Bend, Not Break,” from my book, "I Triumphed Over Bipolar, Alcoholism, and Anxiety Disorders by Becoming a Mental Health Warrior." I explained how I was working to apply it that day to help avoid breaking under pressure and to steer clear of short-term, ineffective solutions that had failed me in the past.
The Minions’ eyes lit up with excitement. They immediately started chattering, thrilled because, as it turns out, they were already familiar with the Warrior Creed and my Mental Health Warrior Program! Who knew the Minions were so well-read?
They offered to help by sharing three ways they use the Warrior Creed when they’re struggling. I could hardly believe it—here I was, getting advice from the Minions!
Lesson 1: Embrace the Wobble
The first thing the Minions told me was how they embrace the wobble. You know, that moment when you’re about to lose balance but somehow manage to stay upright? They explained that life’s challenges often make them feel like they’re teetering on the edge, but instead of fearing the wobble, they embrace it. They see it as a sign that they’re pushing their limits and growing stronger.
Your Turn:
When life throws you off balance, don’t panic. Remember that wobbling doesn’t mean you’re failing; it means you’re adapting. Embrace the uncertainty and allow yourself to wobble as you find your footing again.
Lesson 2: Use Humor as Armor
Next, the Minions shared how they use humor as armor. No matter how tough things get, they always find a way to laugh at themselves and the situation. This not only lightens the mood but also keeps them resilient. “If you can laugh, you can survive,” they said, which, coming from a bunch of yellow, banana-loving creatures, makes a lot of sense.
Your Turn:
When faced with challenges, try to find the humor in the situation. Even if it’s just a small chuckle at something absurd. Laughter can provide you with the mental space needed to think clearly and stay strong. Humor doesn’t solve problems, but it makes the journey a lot more bearable.
Lesson 3: Rely on Your Tribe
Finally, the Minions emphasized the importance of relying on your tribe. They never face challenges alone; they always have each other’s backs. Whether they’re building something ridiculous or causing chaos, they do it together, and that camaraderie is what keeps them from breaking under pressure.
Your Turn:
Remember that you don’t have to face your challenges alone. Lean on your friends, family, or any support network you have. Just like the Minions, having a tribe means you can share the load, and together, you can handle anything that comes your way.
Time to Head Out
Feeling incredibly inspired by the Minions' insights, I decided to join them for some acrobatics. Let’s just say it was less of an Olympic performance and more of a “watch the human try not to fall on his face” kind of situation. I might have managed a half-decent cartwheel, but when the Minions suggested a triple backflip, I politely declined.
Still, the energy, laughter, and sheer ridiculousness of our antics were exactly what I needed. As we caught our breath and laughed off the near misses (and a few actual misses), I realized how much we gain from sharing and supporting each other! As a parting gift, I handed them a copy of my book, "I Triumphed Over Bipolar, Alcoholism, and Anxiety Disorders by Becoming a Mental Health Warrior," so they could keep learning to become warriors.
We eventually parted ways, each heading off on our own paths—me, back home, and the Minions, likely off to their next bit of mischief. But as I walked away, I carried their lessons with me: to embrace the wobble, use humor as armor, and rely on my tribe to triumph over every challenge without breaking.
So, the next time you’re struggling, remember the Mental Health Warrior Creed—“Bend, Not Break”—and tackle life’s challenges, one wobbly step at a time!
Bruce Schutter
(Creator of the Mental Health Warrior Program and Challenge Coin)
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