When we least expect it, life sets us a challenge to test our courage and willingness to change.
We all know the clichés about how life isn’t a dress rehearsal and we only get one shot at this. But, in reality, we’re constantly given chances to improve ourselves and change our ways, even when it would be so much easier to continue on the same path. When something knocks us down or puts us in an unfamiliar situation, that’s our chance to show ourselves and others how brave and capable we really are. What matters isn’t whether we get knocked down, but how we react when that happens. Will we crumble and give up?
The unexpected challenge
It was an average day at the office when I was told that my position had been terminated due to budget cuts. It felt like a punch in the gut- I had no time to prepare for this turn of events and I had no idea what I was going to do next. But after some time passed and I took some deep breaths, I realized that it might have been for the best; now it was time for me to get back up on my feet, dust myself off, and find new opportunities that would allow me to be successful again.
Why we must be courageous
Life is full of surprises, but some of the most difficult come in the form of challenges. When these challenges arise, we have two choices: become discouraged or remain hopeful for the future. If we choose hope and courage, our lives may end up being better than they were before because of how much growth was experienced in the process. It can take time to overcome challenges that seem insurmountable at first sight–but when faced with adversity there is no better feeling than knowing you are stronger than it will ever be able to make you feel again.
Why we must be willing to change
It is not always easy to be brave when faced with adversity. Change can often seem scary and intimidating. But in truth, change is necessary for growth and development – both personally and professionally. When faced with challenges in our lives, it’s important that we have the courage to move forward – even if it means taking risks or encountering new obstacles along the way – so that we can grow as individuals and learn more about ourselves on a deeper level than ever before.
What this means for our lives
We can’t control what happens in the world around us but we can choose how to react. When life throws a challenge at you, use it as an opportunity to strengthen your faith and character. When faced with adversity, have the courage to try something new or take on a different perspective on things; this is what will make you grow as an individual and develop into someone who not only has the strength of character but also has the wisdom of experience.
Obstacle is the way
If you are brave enough to say goodbye then life will reward you with new ways of saying hello. – Ryan Holyday said. These words are so powerful because they show that no matter how hard it may seem now, if you’re brave enough to stand up and do what’s necessary then your future self will thank you for it. It might not feel like it in the moment, but when life puts you in the place where you have to make some tough decisions, take comfort in the fact that if you don’t live through these obstacles then the opportunities ahead won’t exist. As Jack London once said The strongest man in the world is he who stands most alone. And just remember:
