“Adversity is the first path to truth.” ~ George Gordon Byron
As I reflect on many of my previous posts, I realize that I many of them have emphasized dealing with adversity, pushing through the tough days, and facing our challenges head on. It is not necessarily an obsession of mine; but, it is the moment where many of us are vulnerable in achieving our goals. And, many of us really don’t think about conflict when we head out on our journey – we simply start moving.
When we think about a successful outcome, it is often crafted in the positive vacuum of opportunity. We look ahead to the changes we want to make, or the accomplishments we envision for ourselves and we excitedly craft a plan of some sort designed to help us get there. In that moment of planning, crafting, and visioning, all we see is our potential and promise for success. Everything is creating a clear path to our accomplishment.
Yes, this is the only way to begin a mission. For if we start out expecting or planning for failure that will become our predictable outcome. As a result, we must begin our journey planning for, envisioning, and expecting to succeed. But, there exists the reality that adversity will find us. It always does. In fact, it must. In order to enjoy the success of our journey we must face and embrace the lessons that challenge us along the way. If the road were easy, what would you have really accomplished? It is in these moments of conflict and failure that are resolve is tested, our vision challenged, and our greatest lessons learned.
I focus on dealing with adversity as much as I do because that is where the real lessons exist. The path to success is through conflict. You don’t have to create the conflict; but, you must and need to expect that you will face it. And, when you do, recognize that the opportunity to truly relish the experience of your journey exists in your ability to battle through these obstacles and learn about your will and commitment along the way.
Adversity is not designed to be a dream killer, it exists to stretch and challenge your commitment and your willingness to learn and grow in realizing your dreams. It is only a dream killer when you let adversity become a stronger force than your desire to succeed. With a positive attitude, an open mind, and a focused gaze on your vision for success, the force with which you push through adversity will enable you to find success. Most importantly, the experiences of succeeding despite the obstacles you faced provide you with the strength and the character and the lessons to inspire others on their quests and to guide you on your next mission. Embrace the lessons adversity offers and leverage these conflicts as opportunities on your journey.
