Take It And Run

Ever feel like life is throwing you one curveball after another? Rent hikes, car breakdowns, health scares, rude people, financial struggles – it's easy to get overwhelmed when it feels like everything is going wrong. But what if we shift our perspective on these setbacks?

Setbacks as Part of the Journey

Let's face it – life isn't always smooth sailing. As adults navigating the complexities of the world, setbacks are inevitable. Compared to our sheltered days of childhood, where the biggest worry might have been a scraped knee, adulthood brings with it an abundance of challenges to tackle. Perhaps it's time to recognise that these setbacks are simply markers of a life being fully lived. After all, the more we engage with life, the more it throws our way.

Happiness is not the goal

In our quest for a perfect life, we often strive to minimise the negative and maximise the positive. Anxiety, sadness, and fear are deemed undesirable, while happiness, joy, and material success are glorified. But why not accept life as a package deal – encompassing the good, the bad and the ugly? I know it’s easier said than done.

Reframing negative thoughts is a foundational skill

For years, I struggled with negative thought patterns, defaulting to either overreacting and overcompensating on my actions to make a situation pleasurable or feelings of helplessness when overwhelmed. But I've come to realise that this mindset only hinders progress and growth. We need these experiences to learn more about ourselves and the world. By consciously reframing setbacks as events intersecting with my life rather than defining it, I've empowered myself to respond more effectively.

Gaining Experience and Clarity

Instead of wallowing in despair, I've learned to view challenges as opportunities for growth. Each setback is a chance to tap into my inner resources, learn more about myself, and gain new experiences. As the saying goes, experience isn't just what happens to you – it's what you do with what happens to you.

So, the next time life throws you a curveball, remember – setbacks are not roadblocks but stepping stones we can work through. Embrace them, learn from them, and emerge stronger and maybe even wiser. At the very least, knowing you can face any hardship, big or small can give us the confidence to stand a little taller. By reframing our mindset and embracing life's ups and downs, we can navigate even the stormiest seas with resilience and grace. After all, it's not about avoiding challenges, but about how we rise to meet them.