Growing up, I never picked up on things quickly. However, if it was something that I was really interested in doing well, I could work at it and develop well. Through repetition, I developed into a solid athlete in various sports. I could hit a baseball, throw a football, and shoot a basketball.
Other things that I seldom had the opportunity to invest in with a repetitive focus didn’t go nearly as well. Let’s say I learned to play to my strengths at an early age.
I took that same approach with the CPA exam and several early jobs. I just worked harder to offset any talent that I lacked.
However, it all came to a head in my early 30’s. I applied for the top financial position at the paper mill. It was a long shot, but why not.
The hiring manager was an engineer and probably didn’t think I had much to offer. He told me I was 11 on his list of candidates, and that he didn’t even know the other ten. He was obviously not very impressed.
Have you ever been there before?
Adversity hits you right in the face, and you must decide what to do.
- We could quit, not try, and just give up.
- We could complain about life not being fair and fall into a “victim” mentality
- We could choose something different and just change directions.
- We would press on trusting God for guidance as we navigate uncertainty
In chapter 3 of Philippians, Paul talks about forgetting the past, straining forward to what lies ahead, and pressing on toward the goal. If anyone had a past to limit his future impact, it was Paul. However, he set that past aside and met adversity head on as he moved forward on his mission through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Adversity is not a bad thing. It challenges our resolve, our commitment, and our steadfastness. Talent doesn’t overcome adversity; perseverance does.
Adversity will come in many forms and come when you least expect it or need it. It comes in the form of job challenges, relationship issues, health concerns, financial stress, and more. It leads to uncertainty, unpleasant thoughts, and uncomfortable situations.
Adversity also builds endurance, character, dependence (on God through prayer), community (through mutual support), and strength. We only get stronger by picking up heavy things. If you want to grow, you will need to experience challenges.
If you are facing adversity today, don’t panic. It’s a normal part of life. We don’t seek it out, but we can overcome it.
- Remember past experiences where you overcome adversity – builds confidence
- Seek support from others – build a community around you to lift you up
- Next step – don’t tackle the entire issue, just take the next step (manageable mindset)
- Play to your strengths – do what you do well
- Trust – in God’s divine direction for you
I wound up getting that job. The “grinder” in me went through that interview process tackling one session at a time, one question at time, and eventually got that job offer. The obstacle in front of me became an opportunity.
When obstacles become opportunities, you have a healthy perspective and a healthy mindset!
Doug equips leaders to make organizations better. He has two leadership books available on all online platforms. Whether you are looking for a speaker for your next event or a leadership coach to develop people and build an authentic team, contact Doug at doug.strickel@gmail.com and learn more about PLUS.
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