It is not what happens to you that counts, it is how you react to what happens to you, especially when faced with unexpected problems. Here are just some observations we have gained from working with successful people over the years.
Look towards where you want to be. Whatever challenges you face, focus on the future rather than on the past. Instead of worrying about who did what and who is to blame, focus on where you want to be and what you want to do. Get a clear mental image of your ideal successful outcome, and then take whatever action you can to begin moving in that direction. Get your mind, your thoughts, and your mental images on the future.
Think about the solution. When you are facing a difficulty, focus on possible solutions rather than on the problem. Think and talk about the ideal solution to the obstacle or setback, rather than wasting time rehashing and reflecting on the problem. Solutions are inherently positive, whereas problems are inherently negative. The instant that you begin thinking in terms of solutions, you become positive and constructive.
Look for the good, even if its a lesson learnt. This may be a hard one but look for something good hidden within each difficulty or challenge. Look towards what you can learn and do differently next time. Understanding that whatever situation you are facing at the moment, is exactly the right situation you need to ultimately be successful. Use it to help you expand and grow. We often learn more from our mistakes than we do by our successes, knowing that, embrace the situation as an opportunity to learn rather than a situation to rail against.
Have a glass half-full. A positive mental attitude is indispensable to your success. You can be as positive as you want to be if you will simply think about the future, focus on the solution, and look for the good. If you do what other successful people do, if you use your mind to exert mental control over the situation, you will be positive and cheerful most of the time. You will reap the benefits enjoyed by all successful people.
Here are three steps you can take immediately to put these ideas into action;
First, become solution-oriented with every difficulty you face. Make a habit of looking for the answers to your questions, the solutions to your problems.
Second, seek for the valuable lesson in every adversity. Make a list of every idea or insight you can gain from every setback or difficulty.
Third, think on paper. Take some time to write out every detail of the problem, and then take the most logical next step to solve it.
Angela
