What a beautiful journey life is. We all know, however, that it comes with its ups and downs. There’s an art to embracing the struggles in life—and in business—and it takes practice.
The peaks are there to remind you that you can absolutely bring your vision to fruition. You have what it takes. The valleys are there to refine you, make you stronger, expand your mind, and to practice perseverance.
We’ve had our own set of challenges, and we’ve learned many lessons along the way. Here are five of them to help inspire you and remind you that you’re not alone.
Step 1: Check your mindset.
When it comes down to it, triumphing over trials and challenges is all about your mindset. We can give you all the tips in the world on how to overcome struggle, but if your limiting beliefs are standing in the way, it’s almost impossible to move on. That’s why tip #1 is to check your mindset.
But how do you stay positive when the going gets rough? Here are five ideas to get you started:
- Read uplifting books in the business or self-help category.
- Listen to podcasts and audio books.
- Stay plugged in with your team and coaches.
- Start a gratitude journal.
- Do daily affirmations.
And when we go through struggles in life, remember the power of positive self-talk! Your feelings and hardships are valid, so be kind to yourself and have grace.
Step 2: Hold onto the victories.
You must celebrate your wins—big and small—on a regular basis! Your journey will be filled with peaks and valleys. It’s important to allow the victories to carry you through the next bump in the road.
The Harvard Business Review recalls a concept shared by leading behavioral scientist, B.J. Fogg, stating, “celebrating small wins stimulates dopamine release in the brain, a feel-good chemical that reinforces the learning experience and strengthens our sense of connection to those we work with.”
Share your wins with others. And even give yourself a reward for a job well done after reaching a big (or small) goal.
Step 3: Consider your environment.
Imagine journeying through a dark, hazy forest … at night … by yourself. It’s not only scary, but it’s nearly impossible. Your mind would begin to play tricks on you, you’d jump at the littlest of noises, and honestly, you’d probably take one step in and decide to turn right back around.
Your environment matters.
Imagine hiking through that same forest, during the day, with a group of adventurers by your side, and a tour guide.
This is life. And this is business. When you are surrounded by positive people who are helping you, guiding you, and cheering you on, the journey becomes exciting! The struggles in life and in business will feel more like a speed bump than a mountain.
Step 4: Remember, everyone’s journey is different.
When working hard to make your dreams a reality, comparison can sometimes creep in and get the best of us. This is especially true when you’re facing adversity.
Remember that no two journeys are the same. We all come from different backgrounds and circumstances. Comparing your successes and/or failures to others is not fair to you.
Be inspired by others, but also continue to practice the art of overcoming comparison so that you don’t fall into the trap.
Step 5: Recognize that a bad chapter doesn’t mean the story is over.
As you may have figured out by now, setbacks are inevitable. We all know it, yet we still have a difficult time accepting it. We encourage you wholeheartedly to remember that a bad chapter doesn’t mean your book is over. In fact, as in any epic story, it simply means that triumph is just around the corner.
When challenges surface, whether in business or in life, take them in as learning opportunities. This is a chance for you to grow, stretch, and continue to reach outside your comfort zone.
What comes after struggles in life? Victory!
Don’t close the book! Your next chapter is waiting for you, and with perseverance and a desire to learn from life’s struggles, we are willing to bet the next chapter of your story is one of victory!
When dealing with life’s struggles, our vision can tend to get out of focus. In our blog, we give you “Two Clear Signs You’re on the Right Path.” Check it out!
