Dealing with Setbacks

Everyone makes mistakes,
hits a bump in the road,
has setbacks, or problems.

 What sets people apart
is how they react to the bump.

Some people spin out of control, in despair.
Others grab the wheel and steer themselves straight.

Whether it’s a vacation or a family crisis,
we all encounter things that slow us down.
It’s important to keep in mind that a setback
is only temporary and greater things lay ahead.

It is easy just to quit,.
but I believe in the "two steps forward, one step back" philosophy.
So what if something bad happens?
I work to keep moving forward, developing what I have.
I’ve already built a solid foundation on which to rely.
Hard work can’t be overlooked.

 When something doesn’t turn out as we’ve expected,
it is important to be objective.
Step back and look at the situation.
Take responsibility where it is due,
but don’t place blame on others.

Is the setback really that significant,
or will it just require a little extra exertion?
Come to terms with it and then start planning your next move.

It’s okay to ask for help.
Don’t be afraid or ashamed to do this.
Most times, people are willing to give you support and advice,
maybe even after being in a similar situation.
None of us is perfect.
 Bounce back.
Reevaluate the goals you’ve set for yourself
and rework them as necessary.
Goals should be realistic and specific, but also flexible.

View things as a success, instead of a failure.
Instead of focusing on the mistake,
take a moment to sit back
and think about the things that have been accomplished.

Let’s not focus on regret.
Success is never easy.
It remains up to each of us, whether we will give up,
or fight through the tough battles to earn what we want.

There’s a poem by Ralph Waldo Emerson that goes:

"Finish each day
And be done with it.
You have done what you could.
Some blunders and
Absurdities have crept in.
Forget them as soon as you can."