Lillian Lincoln Lambert

We all have our bad days. It could be because of something that happened or did not happen. Or, we may just wake up in a bad mood.  Sometimes there are situations when things are just not going well.  I admit it is easy to begin feeling sorry for yourself and wanting others to share that feeling. In life we have to play the hand we are dealt but find ways to make the best play. Whining and fretting does not help the situation.  We may be inclined to wallow in pity and decide to throw a pity party to which we invite any and everyone.  Well, forget it!  You may find that you are the only one attending your pity party.  Feeling sorry for yourself accomplishes nothing and people don’t enjoy being around someone who is crying the blues.

            When you are feeling sorry for yourself remember the serenity prayer: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can and wisdom to know the difference.

The last couple of years have been tough times for many people – lost jobs, reduced pay, inability to maintain a standard of living – the list goes on. Some have weathered the storm and others have succumbed to the challenges they faced.

I offer some points to get through difficult times but they are also applicable in good times.

1. Be flexible with your plan. Planning is a tool to serve as a roadmap to get to your destination. It’s good to have a short term as well as a long term plan. However, your plans should not be set in concrete. They should serve as guides to give you direction. As you mature, face challenges, or have a change in the idea of where you want to go there may be the need to alter your plan. It is important to have that option as things change or new opportunities present themselves. Have enough leeway to make those changes and still arrive at your destination.

2. Don’t be afraid to move outside of your comfort zone. If what you have always done is not working, be willing to take calculated risks and try something new. Most people are reluctant to change because of uncertainty or the unfamiliar. While it is much easier to stay with the familiar there may become a time when change is indicated. Your field of expertise may be in a downturn and that may be just the time to look at a new area. Do the necessary research to get information you need to make you more comfortable then make your move.

3. Use your network. When I finished graduate school I was so anxious to get out and leave that environment, I never wanted to look back. Years later, I realized what a mistake that was. Many of my classmates could have been a real resource to me had I made the effort. Maintaining relationships from school, previous employment and even social contacts may pay off in ways you never expect, but you must feed your network.

4. Look on the bright side. Losing that job or not getting that promotion may be the impetus you need to explore other possible opportunities. Occasionally something that seems to be a disaster may actually be a blessing in disguise. I was able to convert my part-time business into a full-time one after I was fired from my full time job. Challenges frequently offer an opportunities and opportunities are likely to have challenges. Uncover them.  Don’t throw a pity party or you may find you are the only one attending.

Dream big, act bold!