At some point in our lives we all experience adversity. Not everything always goes as planned. In each instance, we are forced to reflect, contemplate and find resolution. Whether it be conflict at work or home, unforeseen events, catastrophe or illness … the power to find an answer is the ‘how’ question we all seek to counter.
The first step to making a decision about anything should be to reflect on the issue before you do anything else. Make sure that you are interpreting it properly, fully understanding every angle before you try to focus on your options. We are often in such a rush to ‘fix it’ that we miss an easy solution or react inappropriately. Why.” Because we all, at one time or another, tend to make a mountain out of a molehill. It is human nature.
Secondly, take time to contemplate. Ask yourself those six questions we learned in grammar school … ‘Who, What, Why, When, Where and How’ because they will direct you to alternative thought and possible options not immediately obvious. One of two things will result from this action … you will either find direction or realize that control of the problem is out of your hands.
Finally, finding resolution can be multifaceted. There is never just one answer however, if you ask around, there are hundreds of opinions. You should never feel compelled to respond in a certain way because someone else believes it is the right way. Maybe it is for them and not for you. It is noteworthy to hold true to your own decision making abilities, thoughts and character. Remember, what makes you good, or bad, at what you do is more about how you do it than anything else. It will be what garners the most respect in the long run. It is what will set you apart as a leader and not a follower.
Adversity can encompass anything and everything between simple distresses to absolute devastation. Adversity is anything from bad luck to the ultimate loss. It is only upon testament to ourselves that we keep moving forward and it is important to learn how we can do that throughout our lives. Sadly, it is only through experience that we learn that lesson. Inevitably, the more we go through, the better we get at coping and moving forward. Oddly enough, adversity strengthens us despite its challenges. To rise above is a personal accomplishment for which we need no one’s approval but our own. Each time we muddle through a calamity, we automatically become more proud of our capabilities to survive and survival is, of course, mans greatest quest. Each and every episode will only lend more credence to your own techniques, mindset and value by giving you the experience that only living life can do. Take chances, risk being wrong and try something new. You’ll never know if you don’t try. You’re not alone in this journey. We all have a myriad of obstacles, a lot of questions and a pocketful of advice. It is up to you to find what works best for you in any given scenario. Be your own best advocate. Trust your own thoughts and opinions. And, above all else, never be afraid to try again.
Don’t try to plan everything in your life without a little flexibility because, simply stated, it is impossible.
