“Setback is never a bad experience, just a learning curve.” Sir Richard Branson
Righteo lovers, I had a fair share of learning experiences this week. It’s become clear I will not hit a sub-45 10K next weeken
d because I did not stick to my training plan and so have aggravated my right knee again. A project I wanted to move forward was vetoed. I waited too long to book a ticket, and the next startup event I wanted to do sold out. My efforts to snag a ticket anyway were met with a frustrating response because I didn’t make my ask clear enough. My Ruby coding lessons are stalled because of some code error in the app. It doesn’t bode well when the teacher is making errors that break the system. What’s a gal to do with so many setbacks? Shave my head, naturally.
Bold change requires bold action. I’m not Demi, but I still think Bruce does it best.
Just between you and me, I have an unnatural infatuation with Alan Rickman. Don’t tell Rima, OK?
Where were we? Right, fulfilled the Die Hard part of this post. Now for the old habits bit. I’m not going to call these shortcomings or refer to them as “bad.” Nope. Drawing on the advice from a certain biz whiz,* these are my opportunities to pivot.
- Incessant use of self-deprecating humour
- Creating intentional awkwardness as an attention-getting device
- Waiting for someone else to tell me I can do something
- Refusing to accept compliments
- Staying out too late and going on too many dates
How’s about it? What setbacks are you springing off of this week? Better still, what awesome things did you accomplish? Share with me – it’s what your mom would want you to do!
*not to be confused with Cheez Whiz. That’s just gross.
My old habit that I am working to overcome is being overbearing and mothering to grown adults. When I sense someone is in crisis I spring into action usually putting myself in a worse place than the person is. But I take such joy in seeing the relief in their eyes when I come to their aid. However recently I tried to be the hero to someone who really and truly just needed to figure things out on his own. After discussing with some ale friends it became clear that it makes them feel like less of a man if I am always the one to come to the rescue. So I back off… and pace the floor worrying because that is what I do best.
Here’s how you can pivot that into making good for yourself and others. Volunteer at a women’s shelter. Your personal experience will resonate so well with the lovelies there who want and need your type of loving support. ❤️
P.S. I discuss things with my “ale friends” too. They don’t talk directly to me, but sometimes they write late-night emails. Naughty ale friends.