Navigating Life’s Shifts: Opportunities in the Midst of Challenges

As we step into a new year, many of us are balancing the weight of challenges and the thrill of new opportunities. Where do you find yourself today — excited, overwhelmed, or somewhere in between?

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For each of us, that “formula” is different. Some may be thrilled with new opportunities ‘knocking on their door’. While others may be feeling the stress of ‘uninvited’ challenges.

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Stressful Life Events:

Recently I came across an article (1) with a list of the top 10 most stressful life events (in no particular order) that really got me thinking about how we navigate these moments:

1. Death of a spouse
2. Divorce
3. Marital separation
4. Incarceration
5. Death of a close family member
6. Major health concern, illness, injury
7. Marriage
8. Job loss
9. Marital reconciliation
10. Retirement?

Each one of these experiences shakes up our world with a sense of loss from how things were prior. Challenges and opportunities can trigger stress. How we manage that stress (react, respond, or shutdown) can have lasting impacts as well.

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In the article, Dr. Jantz offered 3 tips to manage stress (acknowledge it, use relaxation techniques, take care of your body). His advice aligns closely with what I call the A4 Mindset – a process for moving from awareness to action. Here’s how you can apply it to navigate stress or seize the opportunity with your own challenges this year (personal or business):

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A4 Mindset:

• Awareness – Notice what you’re feeling, don’t ignore that it exists
• Acknowledgement – Identify what may have triggered the feeling(s)
• Acceptance – Embrace where you are without judgement
• Action – Identify a path forward, and start with one small step

Depending on the size of your challenges, it may require additional help. Be open to exploring what works best for you. Individuals can join one of my cohorts, or we can develop a workshop for your team. (Interest Form)

The P Word

One challenge we’re facing – both in the USA and globally – is the state of politics (not on the list above). Regardless of where you stand, the numbers show we’re a divided nation. So, what can we do? Leaning into values like respect, kindness, and collaboration can guide us toward connection and understanding, even amid differences.

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As an Ambassador for the US Values Alliance and World Values Day, I’ve seen how values-driven conversations can transform division into dialogue. It’s time to build bridges of connection and community. If this resonates with you, join the conversation – I’d love to explore solutions together.

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Understanding

While reflecting on how life’s moments shape us and offer an opportunity to reconnect with our gifts, a colleague shared this wisdom:

Whether you’re beginning this year in a season of challenge or opportunity, one thing remains true: ??knowing your value and living your values can guide you forward. In my previous newsletter, 3G’s to End the Year with Abundance, I explored how grace, gratitude and generosity can shape a life of abundance. As we step into this new year, let these principles continue to inspire and lead us – together.

PS:? If you happen to be on Substack, please Follow and/or Subscribe to my account.?In the near future, I’m going to do more of my personal writing there.

WHAT’S HAPPENING:

POETRY: ??Some of my original poetry and artistic collaborations are posted here.

BOOKS (co-authored):?

• Mission Hope: Thriving Through Seasons of the Soul
• Culture Impact:?Strategies to Create World-Changing Workplaces

WOMEN’S HEALTH: 19 February 2025 is My Density Matters 5th Annual Find Out My Breast Density Day and Kick-off of the KNOW NOW Challenge: ?Partner, Promote, and Participate!

EVENT: ?26 March 2025, I will be speaking at InsteadTalks 360o. ?(registration is free)

?Article Reference (1):? What are the Top 10 Most Stressful Life Events by Dr. Gregory Jantz from A Place of Hope, last updated on December 16, 2024.