WEEKLY FOCUS

Coping with adversity…

And when it comes suddenly

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The recent news about the very sad demise of Thomas Cook, may to some have been just a matter of time, while to others, it was perhaps more of a complete shock…even to the employees…What do individuals need to do to better cope and then manage adversity?

  • Accept the situation where there is nothing that can be done. Dwelling on any one thing once the initial shock and aftermath has ceased only heightens and prolongs the issue.
  • Create a plan and one that prioritises in what order you need to start to action your thinking. The mere act of sitting down and putting pen to paper is a huge start. Once done, you have a template to work from.
  • Think back to the past and when you have been placed in challenging situations. Often, at the time we struggle to see a solution, but in time we inevitably look back and recognise that we managed! Take all of the positives and recognise that you are stronger that you might currently realise.
  • There are 7 billion people on this earth. No situation will be unique. Speak with friends and work colleagues. Often other people’s experiences can help to signpost the way forward for you
  • Start to focus on the future. The latter may well have exciting opportunities and ones that you previously may not have considered.
  • Our mind is the most powerful tool that we possess, and yet we too often think of a negative chain of events. We are capable of far more than we believe. In adversity we can achieve much that ordinarily we may have considered impossible
  • Once we start to think more positively and with plans in place, start to create a vision of your future…Picture the success.
  • Create some goals and ones that excite you…Recognise and celebrate the short term success…It helps you on your new journey
  • We have learned much from all aspects of our life, and we often overlook this in times of challenge. Think of the many talents that you will possess and use them to overcome any new situation

As strange as it may seem, fate can often be a blessing. While that may not seem the case in the short term, in the long term we can often look back with a knowing smile as we now thrive in our changed circumstance!

You should never view your challenges as a disadvantage.
Instead, it’s important for you to understand
that your experience facing and overcoming
adversity is actually one of your biggest advantages.

Michelle Obama