In ADVICE + THOUGHTS

Ohhh life. You really never know when it’s gonna pull the rug out from under you.

(Or your house)

I got an early birthday surprise last week that’s put a little dent in my plans for the next few months. My roommate called me in the middle of the night while I was in New York last weekend to tell me our house caught on fire because of an electrical issue in our kitchen and there was severe smoke and fire damage. We had to move every single thing out of the house and find somewhere to live within the next few days.

So, now I’m sitting here in a hotel, in a sweatshirt that smells like a campfire to tell you a little bit about what’s been going on over the past few days. You start to realize a lot when your material life is packed up in boxes. You realize more than ever what’s actually important in this life and how unpredictable every single day is. And how nothing can ever be taken for granted. Two of my roommates moved out permanently because their damage was too bad and Rachel and I are currently looking for places to stay while the fire damage is fixed. So, for any of you dealing with a some sh*t you really wish you weren’t right now, here are some things to keep in mind:

Perspective is EVERYTHING

It’s really never as bad as you think – it all comes down to perspective. Luckily the fire only damaged ‘things’ – and things can be replaced.  None of my roommates got hurt in the fire which is a miracle considering it happened in the middle of the night. No matter how bad your situation is, it could always be worse. We are able to eventually move back in when everything is cleaned and fixed. You always have to think of the positive side of things or you’ll drive yourself crazy with the negatives.

You can’t do it alone

Through this process I’ve learned how important a true support system is. Support can come from unexpected places and you truly learn who your real supporters are when things like this happens. Surround yourself with the people who keep you positive and lend an ear to hear you vent.

Flexibility is a must

I’m obsessed with order. I read/check/analyze my daily and monthly calendars religiously and plan everything down to the minute. When life throws curve balls like this it can be a little hard to adjust. But that’s what you have to do – adjust and pivot. Save yourself the hours of complaining and wasted time and do what you need to do to get on with life and get yourself in a better position.

Comparison Kills Happiness

How many times have you thought “I bet (so & so) has never had to deal with something like this”. WELL people, that’s never true. Every single person you know is dealing with their own issues. You really never know what’s going on in someone’s life and the kind of things they’re dealing with. Show compassion for other people the way you’d want them to show compassion for you in your hard times.

The one thing that never changes..

The one constant we have in this life is God’s never ending love for us. He’s always the one thing that gets me through when I’m at my lowest. Life’s twists, turns, and unexpected problems are inevitable, but the comfort of bringing my problems to Him is what gets me through. People will let you down but He is the solid rock upon which we stand and all other ground is sinking sand.

No matter how big or small the problem is that you’re dealing with right now – know that it’s gonna pass like all the other problems have. Heartbreak, loss, accidents, etc  life always goes on and you come out of it stronger, smarter, and more prepared to face the next thing. Everything is temporary. You learn how to be resilient and how to roll with the punches. How two 100 lb girls moved an entire home worth of furniture over night with a bottle of wine and bubble wrap, I have no idea, but we did it! Also, TIP: renters insurance kids. Get it. Adulting is so fun isn’t it!?

Thanks for stopping by, xo liv

P.s. thank you to my friend Liz and the Bangtel crew for helping me find a temporary place to stay this week – their El Motel in Logan Square is such a fun spot if you’re ever in that area!

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Showing 10 comments
  • Esmina
    Reply

    So sorry you had to go through this 😮 everything happens for a reason, & you’re right – life tests us in ways we would never think. Stay strong, you will pull through this ❤

  • Stephanie Terrone
    Reply

    Praying for you girl!! Yes, perspective is everything. Keep on trusting in God, He’ll bring you through this!

    http://www.stephanieterrone.com

  • Amy
    Reply

    Oh my gosh Olivia, I’m so sorry! Sending prayers and please reach out if you need anything – I mean it!

  • Janet Friedrichs
    Reply

    So sorry to hear about your horrible ordeal. But, you definitely have the right attitude! You and your roommates will get through this and every mishap makes you stronger. Prayers coming your way!

  • Emily Denise
    Reply

    “Everything is temporary”- so true and a super important reminder. Thanks for sharing these tips, and best of luck with your apartment!

    XO, Emily
    Epicurean Emily

  • Kelly Hoover
    Reply

    Olivia I am so sorry to hear about this! Keep your head and spirits up. God always has a bigger plan.

    Prayers your way!

    xo,
    Kelly Hoover
    http://www.theglamorousteacher.com

  • Jacqueline
    Reply

    So sorry that you are dealing with all this Olivia and I love your positive attitude – stay strong girlie and keep your head up! <3

    Jacqueline | Sail Away to Neverland ♡

  • Ashley
    Reply

    This is a great post and wonderful advice. Thanks for sharing. So sorry that this happened to you and your roommates! I do have one comment though; I would hesitate to use the word homeless if I were in your position. You have been fortunate to stay in lavish hotels, and have numerous friends and family that will host you. Although it was an extremely unfortunate event that you experienced, I would say you are far from homeless!

  • Shaheen Khan
    Reply

    Oh my gosh, that’s so crazy! I’m so glad everyone is safe and hope you can get back in soon! Hope you had the best birthday xo

  • Keri Bench
    Reply

    So sorry to hear about this, but glad it was just things and not people who were hurt! Everything you said was spot on! You have such a clear perspective in this world full of people who are focused on the wrong things and that’s what sets you apart from everyone else! I love following along in your journey and seeing that you give glory to God in all that you do ☺️ Prayers for you and hoping you get everything figured out.

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