Tag: gratitude

Capitalize on Adversity

When adversity strikes, it can have debilitating effects on a person’s life. It is a force to be reckoned with. It can bring negative change that feels completely out of our control.

What many people do not realize is that while we cannot always control adversity, we can control how we respond to it.

Adversity can either keep us stuck in bitterness, sadness, and rumination, or it can become a place where positive growth and strength begin to form. That does not mean adversity is easy. It means we have a choice in how we move through it.

A few years ago, I met a woman in the locker room at my exercise club. She was striking in her presence and beauty, and I was immediately drawn to her positive energy.

After talking with her for a while, I learned that she had been struggling with cancer for many years and was preparing for another surgery in a few weeks. She told me that doctors had given her only months to live a few years earlier, and she felt blessed to still have the gift of life.

Although she was initially devastated by her prognosis, she moved forward and began helping other women who were also fighting for their lives. She traveled all over the country as a motivational speaker, sharing how to live with cancer.

I never saw her again, but I never forgot her.

She is a classic example of someone who capitalized on adversity.

Lessons From Adversity

Over the years, I have learned valuable tools from people who have faced difficult times.

One man told me that adversity is like going to battle. He said that while he is in it, he carries inspirational quotes in his pocket to remind him that others have fought and won.

I learned how red lipstick helped one woman portray positivity during her darkest moments.

Many people have told me that prayer gave them the strength to overcome.

What I have learned is that people who rise through adversity usually find something to hold onto. It may be faith, purpose, gratitude, service, courage, or hope. Sometimes it is one small habit that helps them get through the day.

Strategies to Help You Move Through Adversity

If you are struggling with adversity, try incorporating some of these strategies:

1. Take a step back and ask yourself what positivity you can cultivate.
2. Pray or meditate.
3. Practice mindfulness.
4. Journal your thoughts and feelings.
5. Use outcome and process visualization.
6. Help others.
7. Dress in a way that helps you feel stronger.
8. Add positive activities into your life.
9. Connect with positive people.
10. Write gratitude lists.

Adversity can feel overwhelming, but small steps can help you regain a sense of control. You may not be able to change what happened, but you can choose one positive action, one helpful thought, or one supportive person to reach for.

Lastly, some of the luckiest people in the world say they found the silver lining in unfortunate events. Perhaps we all have some luck if we know how to use it.

Gemma Nastasi, PCC, NBHWC, CAPP, CHNC