Staying Positive even with a Criminal Record

 

I recently submitted a post talking about dealing with a criminal record and the importance of not letting it define you as a person. It is always important to remember that you are always able to learn from mistakes, to change, and to grow as an individual. I just wanted to remind all those out there that when things seem the most devastating, that's when an answer or help will come your way. You just need to stay calm, focus on mini goals, be proud of your day to day accomplishments and research your options.

 

Remembering to stay calm is one of the things that most individuals forget to practice when everything around them seems to be falling apart. Breathe. Count to 10. Practice different techniques to help you stay calm, because if you are not calm under stressful and less than ideal situations than everything will seem much much worse. Staying calm will allow you to focus on a game plan, and on the steps you need to take steps in the right direction. So you have made a mistake, you've paid the price or did the time, and you now have to deal with having a criminal record. You've hopefully learned from your mistake. That does not mean that you can't find a solution. Stay calm and find the solution.

 

You have had the misfortune of ending up with a criminal record. You feel trapped and the possibilities seem few and far between. One of the main things you can do to help you feel less devastated is to plan out and think up mini goals. Maybe today's goal is to do your research on what industries help those looking for jobs despite their criminal records. Having these mini goals in place will help keep you focused on what you can do in the present that can benefit you in the long run.

So you've managed to stay calm and focus on your mini goals, you should be proud of that. in fact, you should be proud of the effort that you're putting into staying on the right path and wanting to contribute positively back to society. It has been difficult to leave the feeling of being judged behind but if you don't take the time to praise yourself for learning from your mistakes and being positive, than it will seem much harder to reach your goals. Be positive and proud of the accomplishments you've made.

 

Lastly, in order to put you on the fast track to overcoming your past, reaching your goals and having a brighter future you need to do your research. What resources are out there for individuals looking to start over? What is currently available to you in terms of criminal record removal and pardons? What programs can you join in order to get the help and fresh start you need? Make sure to take the time to do your research to find the right help for your particular situation.

 

Remember, you have made your mistakes but that doesn't define you. What defines you are the steps you take towards a brighter future and a fresh start!