Setbacks. They’re a fact of life. Despite our best intentions and well-laid-plans, life doesn’t always go according to our hopes and expectations. We all experience setbacks, both small and large, and even minor setbacks can have dramatic negative effects…if we all allow them to.
Thoughts of self-doubt creep in, hopelessness quickly settle in, and the downward spiral ensues. But it doesn’t have to be that way. There’s hope, and it starts with our mindset and how we view these so-called setbacks. Here are 5 ways to bounce back — better than ever — from life’s inevitable setbacks.
Embrace who you are. You, my friend, are human. As much as you want to be perfect and perennially in control, you’re not; no one is. But, you know what you are? You are awesome, and you have had many, many successes in life — and there’s more to come. Like you, I’m a work in progress too. Mistakes are okay. They’re learning opportunities. Being afraid is fine. Being comfortable being uncomfortable is a sign of growth.
Everything in life is temporary. Limitations, failings, losses, and setbacks are temporary. Pain and uncertainty pass. Time heals. But don’t watch time fly by. What can you take away from these experiences and situations? Take time toreflect.
Find gratitude in the present moment. Practicing gratitude gets a lot of love these days, and cliché as it may sound, it’s because it works. Every time. So, keep your head up. Take a deep breath and be grateful for everything that’s led you to the present moment — the people, the opportunities, the experiences. And be grateful for setbacks. You can let them destroy you or strengthen you. Your choice.
Reach out and help others. Setbacks are usually self-centered. As harsh as that sounds, it’s true. We usually end up wallowing in our own self-pity, and that’s okay — it’s normal. But, it can be one helluva trap. The key is catching yourself in this pattern, and when you do, re-focus on the people around you. Find a way tohelp someone else; it’s a sure-shot way to feel better.
Move on. It’s always darkest before the dawn. We all make mistakes. But successful people shake it off, rebound rapidly, and get back on track. Pull yourself out of the negative spiral, get support, and hop right back on the path tosuccess by making the right decisions. Learn your lessons.