Overcoming Setbacks with Optimism

I have recently been reminded about the importance of language in shaping our reality. I have devised a new fundraising strategy for Avalon to help fund therapies for children impacted by Autism. This is a topic close to my heart after my daughter’s diagnosis in 2015. After lots of hard work and late nights, we received word that some of our bids had been unsuccessful. This was a massive blow to the families we support and as a result, I was very frustrated with the outcome. In fact, I sulked over this decision for much longer than I should have, and in full strop-mode, I even contemplated quitting!    

Following this, I attended a virtual mastermind session and we discussed the difference between planning and a plan. Planning being the adaptive process to help clarify focus and direction. The plan being the list of outcomes identified to help you reach your destination. When we use the word PLAN, we can unconsciously become attached to the outcomes within it. Therefore, if we do not achieve the actions set out in the plan, it can unintentionally diminish confidence, energy, and motivation.

However, instead of using the word PLAN try using the word TEST or PILOT. Using these words creates a vastly different energy – I would say its almost playful. I think the words TEST or PILOT mentally prepare us for the squiggly lines that are often necessary to achieve success. I think it pre-frames us for setbacks and forces us to consider alternative routes to success which are often fundamental to the planning and growth process. After I changed my language to TEST, I was instantly energised. I now have calls booked with the funders to identify how we can improve alongside a variety of alternate routes to reach our destination. Thanks to Tony Vee for his amazing insight.

If you are like me and are taking on big goals that are pushing you outside of comfort zone, rest-assured there will be setbacks. This is an amazingly simple strategy to prepare for those setbacks whilst maintaining our energy and optimism.  And as Tony Robbins famously said, where your focus goes our energy flows.

NOTE: If you found this article helpful please comment below. Or if you feel it will help someone else please share it. 

About the Author

Pam is the founder and Chair for Avalon Parental Support and Respite. We are an Autism charity supporting parents and children impacted by Autism. We provide emotional and practical support for parents and access to therapies for children.  

Pam is also the Director for PD Future Ready Learning, a fast-growing Virtual Training Consultancy in the UK. We provide highly interactive and engaging virtual learning, leadership, and coaching programmes to improve business results.