3 Approaches to Taking Advantage of a Setback

Sometimes I think we resist when we should surrender, and we go with the flow when we should take more control. It's like somehow our sense of right action with right timing is backwards.

This backwardness, I think, is part of what makes the unexpected setback so devastating to so many people.

As a coaching challenge, the question is: What if you could take a different approach to setbacks? What might be three ways to take advantage when an unexpected situation arises?

The Stop, Drop and Roll Approach

Yes, I know, that's the advice for when your clothing has caught on fire. But it applies here, I think. When a setback strikes, what if you:

• stop trying to do things the way we've always done them,
  
• drop back a step or two to get the bigger picture of what's newly possible, and then
  
• roll in the direction the energy is already moving?

The Lemonade Approach

You know, as in, when life hands you lemons, make lemonade. Setbacks are often unsweetened, acidic, and souring to the normalcy of accustomed daily routines. What if you:

• add some sugar -- which might be in the form of more time, less spending, more self-care, less pressure, etc
• stir until blended -- meaning, mix new resources and techniques into daily life until habituated
• drink until satisfied -- that is, let this new approach become a sweeter way of life

The Fly Around the Dragon Approach

Okay, yes, that's a Harry Potter Tri-Wizard champion reference. A setback can be like a great big, fire breathing obstacle between you and the golden egg of your goals. It's scary and fierce, and liable to bite you in two ('cause you is crunchy and good with ketchup. LOL). But what if you follow Harry's approach:

• accio Firebolt -- that is, access your best natural talent, and jump on with extreme gusto
  
• keep your eye on the prize -- meaning, despite distractions, don't lose sight of your goals
• stay on your broom -- which is your action plan, because moving forward is what works, being still is fatal
• course correct as needed -- small necessary changes can get you closer to success with less danger
  
• don't give in to fear -- operate on instinct and solid learning without second guessing yourself