How to overcome Setbacks

Life has a way of throwing roadblocks in our paths. You don't get that promotion at work you were sure was yours. A family member gets a shocking medical diagnosis. Your partner is having an affair. All life altering for sure, but as with most unwelcome surprises, the key to moving forward and not staying stuck in the setback is how you react. How do you navigate around them and stay on track?

"Day to day issues can seem minor, but they do add up, whether at work, school or home". "For a mom, trying to be a good mom while attempting to get things done can be stressful. She's got to figure out how to take care of herself and do something positive, even relaxation techniques and deep breathing exercises."

Sometimes just a shift in a negative pattern is all it takes to remove a roadblock. The way we think impacts the way we feel. No matter what happens, there are always different ways of looking at the situation. Setbacks that are serious usually include shock, denial, anger, acceptance of the loss and grieving the loss of a vision. Even though the time factor is integral to healing, most of us can handle setbacks better than we think. "What we don't do well is regroup and create a new vision".

The secret to long-term success with setbacks is seeing and sticking to a vision of what you want -- seeing yourself cross the finish line and win the race. Setbacks don't have to be negative.  When you have a setback, you can either wallow in it forever or get out of that state of mind by taking steps forward, whether big or small. 

The following are some strategies to deal with setbacks:
• Identify the setback. Realize that it's your choice to go in whatever direction you choose.
• Ask yourself what are the positive actions you can take.
• Look at your past successes and write down three of your strengths.
• Take action on 10 things -- a class, exercise, go on a trip or out with your friends.
• Meet up with someone new, possibly someone you've been meaning to call.
• Focus on where you want to go, not the problem, and don't use excuses.

Sometimes we create our own setbacks and get consumed in the problem without seeing the possibilities. "Roadblocks are opportunities to go in better, different directions.  Whatever roadblocks may come your way, "You've (gotten over them) before, you can do it again.

Email: thewavesofdestiny@yahoo.com