(“I get knocked down but I get up again.”)
We’ve all felt discouraged and defeated at some point. There are times when we may feel like giving up our goals and hopes. This is when perseverance, the ability to keep going no matter what, is essential. Tips to help you develop this essential life skill include:
Acceptance
Instead of fighting what’s happening around you, breathe deeply and learn to accept the challenge before you. Resistance will fuel discouragement and hopelessness.
Focus on the Solution
Change your focus from the problem by asking lots of questions and looking for solutions from different angles. To quote the Dalai Lama: “If a problem can be solved, it will be. If it cannot be solved, there is no use worrying about it.”
Seek the light
Ancient wisdom maintains that every situation contains the seeds of both darkness and light. Doing your best to search for the positive opens you up to more possibilities, growth, and learning. For example, notice how far you’ve come and celebrate the small improvements you’ve made. Even just “hanging in there” during a difficult time deserves respect.
Keep your eyes on your Goals
It’s okay to fall apart, make mistakes, fail, and be disappointed, but limit the time you spend in this place. If you have a goal, keep working to achieve it, despite the failures. Keeping your goals visible on your bathroom mirror or fridge plants the seeds of success and focuses your mind on things to help you achieve your goal.
Learn from others
People who persevere expect to fail and be disappointed. They choose to keep moving forward. Learn from those around you or google people like JK Rowlings, author of the famous Harry Potter series who was rejected for years by publishers or David Beckham, who despite many failures, persevered to become a soccer legend. Commit to becoming that courageous, resilient person you were born to be.
Get help
Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. A person who perseveres is resilient, self-aware, and courageous enough to actively seek support, advice, and encouragement from others when times are tough. Remember LifeAssist is also just a call away at no charge to you.