Adversity is an inevitable part of life. The sooner we accept this truth and learn to live with it, the better. Whether we like it or not, challenges will always present themselves. Agreeing to keep going despite setbacks is the first sign that you are prepared to overcome whatever life throws at you.
And beyond any reasonable doubt, the greater the obstacle, the more glory there is in conquering it. If COVID-19 has presented itself, then let’s rise and face it with courage and determination.
Even the Holy Scripture in John 16:33 reminds us to expect trials. Many may argue that focusing on adversity is pessimistic, but that is a misunderstanding. Preparing for challenges is actually a form of optimism. By acknowledging potential difficulties, you equip yourself to handle them effectively—without being blindsided.
Why Preparation Is Key
The truth is, you cannot win a battle you did not prepare for. It’s not about luck; it’s about strategy. Know what should be done, avoid what should not, and aim before you act. Remember: the greater the obstacle, the greater the glory in overcoming it.
COVID-19 caught the world off guard, but it is never too late to rally inner strength and fight back. Start by acknowledging the adversity without overestimating it. Understand the problem fully and ask key questions:
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What exactly is the challenge?
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What steps should I take to overcome it?
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What will I gain by overcoming it?
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What are the consequences of inaction?
Writing your answers down helps focus your energy on solutions rather than fear. Too often, people overrate challenges and underestimate their own abilities.
Your Mind Is Your Greatest Weapon
Humans possess incredible potential, yet studies show most people use only a fraction of their brain’s capacity. When you overrate an obstacle, you underrate yourself. Sit down, analyze the situation, and you may discover that the problem is not as insurmountable as it first appeared.
Many people keep problems to themselves out of fear or denial. Remember the saying: “When you pass through hell, don’t stop to take pictures.” Focus on moving forward instead of dwelling on the difficulty. Don’t add to your adversity by blaming yourself for past mistakes.
The Power of Positive Thinking
Your thoughts shape your words, your words shape your beliefs, your beliefs shape your actions, and your actions create the results you experience. Staying positive is not optional; it’s a necessity.
Look at the story of the physically challenged award recipient at a past BET Awards. Despite immense obstacles, she persevered and inspired others. Her hero was her history—a legacy of people who succeeded despite oppression. Let her example remind you that adversity does not have to define you.
Surround yourself with positivity. Negative people drain energy and cloud judgment, while positive, enthusiastic people inspire and uplift. Seek out environments that reinforce optimism and solution-focused thinking.
Taking Calculated Risks
Life is a risk. Avoiding challenges may seem safe, but it guarantees failure if you never act. Take calculated risks after analyzing your adversity. Know what you stand to gain and what is at stake. By facing challenges proactively, you turn obstacles into opportunities.
Key Principles for Overcoming Adversity
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Adversity can make you bitter or better. The choice is yours.
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Rise after being knocked down. Don’t let setbacks keep you down.
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Acknowledge that circumstances change. Your darkest hour is temporary.
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Life is too short to live in defeat. Take control of your mindset.
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Address the root cause. Solve the problem to change the results.
Train your mind to focus on the positive. Read inspiring stories and biographies of people who succeeded despite adversity. Replace negative influences with empowering ones. Remember: “When you fall down, pick something up.” Learn from failure and hit the ground running.
Never Give Up
Never give up because something didn’t go as planned. Never give up because you faced a setback. God wired you to be resilient, optimistic, disciplined, focused, hardworking, and above all, a winner. Keep fighting. Keep going.
It’s never over until you win. Remember: the greater the obstacle, the more glory in overcoming it.
KEEP ON WINNING, AND SEE YOU AT THE TOP.
Most of my recent work now lives at The Skywatcher’s Journal. Come join me there as well. In the meantime, circle back here for updates on this old blog—I’ve come to realize that sometimes, old is gold.
🎥 Oh, and if you enjoy video storytelling, check out my YouTube channel too
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