I have been observing alot of situations in the news and in the events that happen around me…I’ve come to the conclusion that the secret in overcoming any challenges or events in life has to be in deciding not to let any circumstances or event define the rest of your life. I think a person’s attitude or determination is the key factor.
Have you ever known someone who has gotten stuck in life? You know…the the type of person who just can’t seem to be able to get past a certain event, challenge or obstacle? It is a person who dwells on all of the lost opportunities in life; any negative situations they have encountered, the after-effects or consequences from a trauma or difficulty that they have faced; events that have been a cross road in their life. We all have them; so what determines who overcomes and who seems to be buried under a load of defeat?
There are situations where people have been in the same set of circumstances and yet, their ability to cope with the outcome is vastly different. Therefore, it can’t be something as simple as being removed from the circumstances; the ability to overcome has to come from the inside of the individual. People are a mixture of physical, spiritual and emotional layers. Our experiences are varied. When we are faced with difficulty…we each react in different ways based on those experiences.
Our attitudes are often formed from our past experiences, our family values, our spiritual beliefs and the internal voice that runs through our heads as far as our self esteem goes. That is not to say that we can’t reprogram our attitudes if we find that we are lacking in any one area. Life is a constant journey and we can stop, start, back up, make a u-turn, fast forward or re-route ourselves when needed.
Part of accomplishing a re-routing or a change of direction is in how we approach a challenge in life, is doing some self-evaluation. Knowing yourself and your typical responses is important. Do you often find yourself discouraged or encouraged? Do you avoid challenges because of feelings of defeat? Are you willing to try looking at solutions or a different approach to a problem or challenge?
If so, you are well on your way to overcoming …whatever your obstacles…find ways to build yourself up; motivate yourself with positive self-talk in those moments of depression or defeat, look at the obstacle from a new perspective, allow yourself moments of self-reflection to take stock of the pros and cons of the situation. Prepare yourself to be on the side of triumph and success. If you lack knowledge or information…find a way to get it. If you are surrounded by people who are negative…find others who are positive and supportive. Seek out professionals who are helpful and knowledgeable.
Are you short of the tools you need to overcome? How can you get them? Negotiate, borrow, barter with others, trade skills or knowledge to get what you need…it doesn’t have to put you in the poor house to acquire the tools you need. Surrounding yourself with like minded people who are focussed on the same goals as you will help to insure a positive outcome in your goals.
In truth, we are often conditioned by well meaning people to accept negativity or defeat. It is easier to be negative because, more often than not…we have not been taught to expect a positive outcome. Focussing on overcoming is going to require some work at changing your perspective…but you can do it; if you truly want to. Take steps to prepare yourself for success in overcoming whatever is coming between you and a purposeful life!
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