The Path to Success is Paved with Setbacks—Here’s How to Charge Ahead

Olympic athletes are truly awe-inspiring. When most people are satisfied with striving for their personal best, these competitors seek to be the best. This commitment to excellence is rare, and watching them compete is a privilege I’m looking forward to during the 2024 Summer Olympics.

I’m always fascinated to learn the backstories of the athletes. What was their journey? How long have they been working toward their goals? What obstacles did they overcome? Did they ever harbor self-doubt or want to give up? After all, the road to success isn’t perfectly paved. The journey requires inspiration, planning, perseverance, problem-solving, a willingness to adapt, and more. Those who reach the finish line are the elite for a reason.

Even though you probably won’t be competing with Team USA in Paris, goals are still important. Aspirational goal setting is an integral part of what I teach, a skill that needs to be practiced regularly, whether consciously or unconsciously. The more you focus on what success looks like for you, the better you’ll know how to get there.

Changing your perception of success

Success doesn’t have the same meaning for everyone. You have your own unique definition. Your training could be focused on running a 10-minute mile. The person next to you is also running, but their goal is to complete their first marathon. You’re on the same path, but you have very different goals.

You may think you know what success is. You’re probably bombarded with images of “success” in the media every day. Social media is inundated with influencers and thought leaders telling you what success is and how to get it. But that’s their version of success!?

Setting aspirational goals is necessary for success, but if your ultimate achievement isn’t aligned with who you are, you may be left feeling empty. Your perception of success shapes your relationship with it and the goals you need to set to get there. I challenge you to rethink what gratifies you, where you find fulfillment, and what fills you with happiness, because success isn’t one-size-fits-all .

Using your purpose to push yourself

As you pursue success, you might be picturing each of the steps falling into place perfectly, one after another, until you get what you want. Unfortunately, that is not a likely scenario. There will be challenges along the way, and you may find yourself being pushed back a few steps. The opportunities you’re given to achieve your goals won’t always have a positive outcome. You can’t avoid adversity, but you can learn from it, pick yourself up, and continue on.

Knowing your purpose can help you overcome those setbacks and move forward with strength and authenticity. Every difficulty you face gives you the ability to face the next one as a better version of yourself. For me, my work is my purpose. You have to find your own, the reason you’ll continue toward your goals, even when the journey is difficult.

Manifesting can bring your purpose to life

Your brain is powerful and is at the root of everything you do. Whether you’re feeling happy, sad, anxious or confident, your brain is directing that traffic. That control makes your brain an effective tool for living with a positive mindset or getting stuck in negativity.?

When you’re going for your goals, manifesting can help keep you on track . Intentional visualization is a proven method of helping you achieve—what you imagine can become a reality. Your unconscious mind is always focused on your goal, influencing your decisions and moving you closer to what you want. Manifesting can help bring your purpose to life.?

It doesn’t matter how you visualize your goals, being open to possibility and a manifesting mindset is the essential ingredient. You’re approaching life with an attitude of abundance rather than scarcity. There are possibilities, not problems.?

Taking pride in your accomplishments

Taking pride in your accomplishments can be surprisingly difficult. Throughout your life, you’ve probably been encouraged to express humility rather than pride . Although both have their place, too much of either can put you out of balance. Pride can boost your self-esteem while humility can keep pride in check.

I can’t help but think of the classic example of the NFL occasionally punishing athletes for excessive celebration. Are the players really in the wrong? Shouldn’t they be allowed to revel in the dedication and hard work that led to their touchdown? When it comes to professional athletes, including those we’ll watch at the Olympics, these competitors have proven they’re the best in the world at what they do. I'd say that’s worth celebrating!

Most people acknowledge the importance of aspiration, but only some genuinely know how to get there. One hiccup, bump, or challenge, and they’re off the path, but you don’t have to be. If you’re planning to watch the Paris Olympics, let the stories of challenges overcome inspire you to create a plan to make new goals and see what happens!

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