Setbacks can be very frustrating. And it doesn’t make any difference whether those setbacks are when you are training for a race or striving towards a goal in your personal and/or business life.
My newest setback in my training has been an IT Band that has decided to be extremely stubborn in loosen up regardless of the specific exercises I’ve been given to do. It has been causing me extreme pain if I ran more than 2 1/2 to 3 miles. And now I have been told to rest it and only walk for the next four weeks.
As I have been walking, I have been analyzing how I have managed to stay positive overall and focused on the end goal. What is it that keeps me going forward with each new setback? And with each new setback, have I built on what I’ve learnt from other setbacks I have had? Or do I use different techniques for different types of setbacks or is there an universal set of tools?
In these long walks, I have realized that having the right tools in place can lift you up and out of a slump. And I have also continued to refine my “tools” with each new setback which makes that new situation even more manageable.
Here are my tools from my toolbox that so far have kept me focused, positive and moving forward:
- If it continues to hurt or if it isn’t working, it is time to call in professional help.
- Find a coach to help you set specific, measurable goals.
- Follow their instructions, suggestions, and/or guidelines.
- Lean on your support group. If you don’t have one, find a group of people who have the same end goal as you do.
- Spend time with that group as they will keep you focused, accountable, and. more importantly, make you laugh.
- That same group will make you see that you aren’t the only one with that problem.
- Read how other people handle their setbacks such as 9 Tips to Cope with Negative Situations.
- Remember that life is an adventure. And no adventure has ever gone from A to Z without some highs and lows.
- It is always okay to adjust your direction as long as you aren’t just coping out.
- And most important, enjoy the journey along the way.
Though I’m still learning how to deal with this latest setback, my support group has again been that shining light for me. I wish I could say that as each new setback has presented itself, I have learnt over time how to deal them perfectly by now. Unfortunately, I don’t think I do. But I am dealing with each one better and/or a bit differently depending on the situation. And as I have mastered new tools, the process gets a little bit easier so those setbacks don’t overwhelm me as much.
The more tools we have in our “toolbox”, the easier it is for all of us to continue on our jouney. Please share with us how you deal with your setbacks.
Professional help for the problem and social help for the recovery period – that sounds like a perfect recipe, Betsy! So glad to hear you are continuing on your physical fitness journey – it is inspiring to see you dodge the roadblocks as they land in your way.
Thanks, Betsy! It’s hard to stay motivated over the winter with the rain and cold. But even though I don’t run with the ladies on Saturday, I do walk then we all go have coffee afterwards and compare our aches and pains. Of course, the conversations always verve to other more interesting subjects, like the cute Dr. Scott that 3 of us are now seeing.