Overcoming setbacks is the key to achieving success. In life, as setbacks occur, it is essential to remain determined to overcoming these challenges and use them as a springboard to success. Realizing that setbacks are opportunities to learn from past mistakes and find a lesson in each situation is essential to growth. Our reaction is always our choice.
Setbacks occur in multiple forms. They can be in the form of an unexpected event, such as a company layoff or restructuring, and often derail plans we originally set for ourselves. As these setbacks occur, it is easy to see them as a rejection and can fuel fears of failure. We can approach these setbacks in two ways: internally or externally. Often times as we internalize our feelings, they continue to thrive in a negative manner, often times becoming the mental block which further fuels negative thoughts on failure. Remember, we all experience bad days and we all go through our share of crisis. However, we have a choice in how we respond. If we choose to panic, we may make decisions we would not have normally chosen under different circumstances. In contrast, as we accept these setbacks as opportunities to thrive, are we able to remain strong in order to achieve our goals. Maintain perspective. The setback may feel overwhelming at the moment; however, it may not make much impact in the long-term.
In order to overcome setbacks, we must look at the obstacle as an opportunity of growth; we are not the victim. When we master our negative emotions, only then can we make the best decision. As a setback occurs, improving our resilience is the key. As the saying goes, “If it doesn’t kill you, it makes you stronger.” This can be achieved in four main ways: recognizing strengths, building good relationships, taking action and nurturing yourself.
- By recognizing strengths, we are able to look at our current situation as a growth opportunity, a chance to take another path towards our success. Making the most of our talents
- As we build good relationships with colleagues, we create a strong support network to fall back on in times of setbacks. People who have stronger connects are more resistant to stress. Treating people with empathy and compassion is the key here, so utilize those EI techniques.
- As we have set SMART goals for ourselves toward our success based on our values, we use the setback to take action toward achieving our long-term goals. By learning from setbacks, are we fully able to grow and stay motivated to succeed past a setback.
- Nurturing yourself is an essential part of the process. Staying positive and strong willed, we are able to move forward and take the risks essential to moving forward.
Focus on being flexible to change is the understanding the first step is not always the most successful one. Realize that things change, and even carefully-made plans may need to be amended or completely changed. Thomas Edison made thousands of prototypes of the incandescent light bulb before he finally got it right. His resilience gave the world some of the most amazing inventions. Resilience is being adaptable to unexpected changes and setbacks. Having the strength and fortitude to overcoming adversity, and to keep moving forward towards our dreams and goals in the life we have always imagined.
