"Whatever gets you through the night, it's alright, it's alright"

This quote carries a simple yet profound idea: do what you need to do to get through tough times. Life can be challenging, and everyone faces their own struggles. The night here is a metaphor for hardships or dark times, suggesting that whatever helps you cope and make it through is okay.

John Lennon penned this phrase in his song "Whatever Gets You Thru the Night," which was released in 1974. Coming from a tumultuous period in his own life—post-Beatles, navigating through personal and professional upheavals—Lennon seemed to be sharing a piece of wisdom born out of his own experiences with adversity. Imagine the 70s, a time of great societal change and personal introspection for many artists. Lennon's message resonated with the idea of self-care and survival, even if it meant finding solace in unconventional ways.

Let's bring this idea to life with a real-world example. Picture a single mom, juggling work, kids, and the seemingly never-ending list of daily tasks. She might find solace in a late-night TV show, a cup of tea, or a few minutes of quiet reading after the kids are in bed. These small moments, though they might seem trivial to an outsider, can be the lifeline that helps her maintain her sanity and energy.

So, how can you apply this wisdom? Start by identifying what genuinely helps you unwind and feel better during tough times. Is it a hobby, like painting or playing an instrument? Maybe it’s calling a friend to vent, or even indulging in some guilty pleasure like junk food (in moderation, of course). The key is to recognize that it's okay to have these outlets. They’re not just distractions—they’re essential tools for maintaining your emotional and mental well-being.

Imagine you're going through a particularly stressful week at work. Deadlines are looming, your boss is on your case, and you can feel the tension in your shoulders. Instead of pushing through without a break, think about what small acts could help you get through. Maybe it’s taking a 10-minute walk outside, listening to your favorite podcast, or even just sitting quietly with your eyes closed for a few minutes. These aren’t just breaks—they’re survival tactics.

Let’s relate this to a scenario you might find yourself in. Picture this: You're a college student during finals week. The pressure is intense, and you’re pulling all-nighters to study. You could push through with nothing but caffeine, but what if you took a different approach? Maybe you take breaks to do a quick workout, call a friend to catch up briefly, or even watch a funny video. These moments of respite—though they might seem like distractions—can actually help you recharge and perform better in the long run.

In essence, the quote is a reminder that self-care is vital, especially during tough times. It's a call to embrace whatever it is that helps you get through the night—without guilt or judgment. Life’s hard enough; give yourself permission to find your own ways to navigate through it.