Adversity is your opportunity

Over the past month I’ve had the opportunity to speak in front of several professional groups in person. The “in person” part is a highlight because it is the first time I’ve spoken to a non-Zoom crowd in over two years. It was so energizing to be in front of a crowd again and I looked forward to each presentation with enthusiasm and excitement.

You will face challenges

Unfortunately, September was a tough month for a lot of people as inflation continues to rise and people are growing more concerned with the economy. So, getting to say something uplifting and positive seemed to have more of an effect than it had for some time. Before the Covid lockdowns of 2020, it seemed as if things were great and there weren’t too many concerns. Of course, I can’t ignore the political division that had grown in the United States. But, all in all, the economy seemed strong, the labor market seemed strong and people were basically doing well.

Since then, it’s been tough for a lot of people. Many thought we had seen the light at the end of the tunnel towards the end of 2021. Things seemed like they were finally getting back to normal. Then, everything changed on a dime. Russia invaded Ukraine, adding to global tensions. China continued to lockdown as a response to Covid cases, which further strained the supply chains. Talk of recession due to the massive inflation became the topic of conversation. Suddenly, people became concerned.

Life has its cycles

What we may have all forgotten is that life works in cycles. Recessions follow expansions, winter follows fall, and change is inevitable. How we react to these changes is critical. It’s important to remember that expansions follow recessions and spring follows winter. This too shall pass and how we react to the downturns in our lives defines who we ultimately become. Sometimes things are great, and sometimes we are challenged. Regardless of how you feel during any given cycle of life, always move forward. In the end, you will eventually reach your destination.

The book of your life will be filled with chapters of challenge. How you face these challenges dictates how the next chapter will be written.