The word "adversity" comes from the Latin "adverto," meaning "I turn to" or "I give attention to." I think there's something strangely poetic about the word's origin... Okay, geek out moment over. Let's continue.
In my opinion, there are two types of adversity. First is the obvious kind, such as when you want to accomplish something and the world flat-out says, "NO." The second is a sneakier kind...it occurs when you have a goal, but you are your own obstacle. Adversity I've experienced is typically of the second category--sometimes I just want to yell at myself for not believing in me more. Come on, self!
I love a success story. From Oprah to Sonya Sotomayor, I can't help but feel a surge of pride for people who kick adversity's butt (especially when the person kicking is a strong woman!).
I haven't lived for very long, but here are some timeless lessons:
1. Make a list (I l.o.v.e. lists. Give me a neon gel pen and an index card and I'll rule the world). Write down your goal, no matter how big or small. Write down all the steps you need to take to get there. Put your list somewhere you'll see it all the time. (I keep my New Year's Resolutions list above my desk). Adversity doesn't have to be a nameless creature. Own your adversity.
2. You'll never know your strength until you're forced to test it.
3. Be your #1 priority. Adversity can't stand a chance when you are taking care of yourself (so have fruit & veggies with every meal, use the stairs--or speed walk to class, and take ten minutes each day to meditate/relax/be one with the world).
4. Do one thing that scares you every day. For me, that might mean saying hi to a complete stranger. But the more you acquaint yourself with going out of your comfort zone, the easier it'll become.
5. Say "thank you." Focus on the positive or the monster under your bed (i.e., Adversity) will eat you up.
My apologies if this post sounded like a Self-Help book. I'll leave you with this quote from Queen Beyoncé:
"If everything was perfect, you would never learn and you would never grow."
In my opinion, there are two types of adversity. First is the obvious kind, such as when you want to accomplish something and the world flat-out says, "NO." The second is a sneakier kind...it occurs when you have a goal, but you are your own obstacle. Adversity I've experienced is typically of the second category--sometimes I just want to yell at myself for not believing in me more. Come on, self!
I love a success story. From Oprah to Sonya Sotomayor, I can't help but feel a surge of pride for people who kick adversity's butt (especially when the person kicking is a strong woman!).
I haven't lived for very long, but here are some timeless lessons:
1. Make a list (I l.o.v.e. lists. Give me a neon gel pen and an index card and I'll rule the world). Write down your goal, no matter how big or small. Write down all the steps you need to take to get there. Put your list somewhere you'll see it all the time. (I keep my New Year's Resolutions list above my desk). Adversity doesn't have to be a nameless creature. Own your adversity.
2. You'll never know your strength until you're forced to test it.
3. Be your #1 priority. Adversity can't stand a chance when you are taking care of yourself (so have fruit & veggies with every meal, use the stairs--or speed walk to class, and take ten minutes each day to meditate/relax/be one with the world).
4. Do one thing that scares you every day. For me, that might mean saying hi to a complete stranger. But the more you acquaint yourself with going out of your comfort zone, the easier it'll become.
5. Say "thank you." Focus on the positive or the monster under your bed (i.e., Adversity) will eat you up.
My apologies if this post sounded like a Self-Help book. I'll leave you with this quote from Queen Beyoncé:
"If everything was perfect, you would never learn and you would never grow."