Turning Point

As you go on your path, you will have “turning points” or “defining moments”–?a point in your life when you are urged to make a pivotal decision, or when you experience something that fundamentally changes you. Mine happened ten years ago when I was only nineteen. My parents were divorcing, and, in the process, I was forced to pick a side knowing very well that the decision would cost me.?

Not that I had seen it coming neither did anyone prepare me for it. But it happened so fast, and I was devastated. The most difficult part was not knowing whom to believe and choosing whom to live with. I hated being separated from two of my siblings and the thought of it makes my blood run cold to this very day. I still wonder if I made the right decision.???

The truth is,?taking time to reflect and focus on these moments can improve your life. A character strength that was at play for me is empathy. This is a mid-level strength that I can bring forth powerfully when I need to. Another signature strength of mine that contributed significantly was hope, and this drives most of what I do in life.?

This moment of truth impacted my identity. I learned to communicate, look at things from a different point of view as well as acknowledge people and situations. My superpower strength (hope) on the other hand is always looking for possibilities and opportunities in my life, even if it is only one thought among a cloud of detractors. These two strengths played a profound role for me.??

As I examine the situation, I see other strengths, also known as “virtues,” at play. Courage for example helps us to step up during tough moments. It helps us overcome the thoughts of “I’m not good enough,” “I can’t,” “I’m poor at” etc. This virtue impelled me to look at the bigger picture and make the decision even when I did not feel brave.??

Lastly, I was also able to control my emotions, thoughts, and behavior in the face of impulses. Thanks to self-control, which helps us stay in control –keeping us in check. I could go on and on, but whatever critical situation you are in, embrace it and learn from it. As they say, “a bend in the road is not the end of the road, unless you fail to make the turn.”?