Naturally we all want to keep the good times rolling, for our forward progress to be non-stop and our obstacles easily surmounted. To stack one success on top of another. But when adversity arises, we should be ready to embrace it, and the reason is because it’s the best teacher around. Nothing will help you learn faster than a setback or some hard times. In fact, what you’ll learn the most about is yourself. There’s nothing quite like a crisis to help you discover your strengths and expose your weaknesses. When the going got tough, how did you respond? Did you rise to the occasion or try to avoid facing it head on? What finally got you out of the jam? Were you able to get out of your own way?

        When problems arise you’ll likely be in survival mode and not exactly keeping your eyes open for the “teachable moments” in the situation, but that’s alright. Just get through it. In fact, saving the introspection for after the fact makes it easier to see the big picture and more clearly judge how you’re affected by adversity. You can analyze your performance and behavior afterward when you’ve got a clearer head, and figure out how to address your shortcomings and better leverage your strengths. Otherwise, the emotional toll of the situation is still part of the equation and you may not be in the right headspace to learn anything of value. 

        If you’re the right combination of smart and lucky you’ll be able to avoid a great deal of hardship. But it will come. With the right mindset, you can at least make the most of it and learn what you can to make the good times last longer next time. Embrace your obstacles and see them as opportunities to become a better version of yourself.