The Secret to Bouncing Back.

Bouncing Back: Overcoming Setbacks on the Journey to Change

When you set out to make a change, whether it’s losing weight, improving fitness, changing careers, or even moving house, setbacks are inevitable. The path from point A to point B is never straight. Often, we catastrophise these hurdles, seeing them as signs we should quit, ultimately leaving us feeling like failures.

But the simple truth is, the only difference between those who succeed and those who don't is perseverance when things get tough.

To bounce back from a setback, it’s firstly crucial to be realistic. If something isn’t working, reflect on whether it’s still important to you. If it is, reassess your approach, seek advice from others, and explore alternative routes.

Rather than giving up at the very first hurdle, if people actively change their mindset to view setbacks as valuable opportunities for growth, they can truly take back control of their situation and maintain the motivation needed to keep pushing forward. Take the time to carefully write down the specific challenge you are facing, thoroughly assess what aspects you can control, and thoughtfully determine your next steps. Learning from these moments of difficulty is absolutely key to fostering resilience and ensuring long-term success.

Next up, take a moment to identify any new resources or additional support you might need to help you stay on track with your goals. Perhaps joining a supportive group of like-minded individuals or working with a dedicated coach could offer you the crucial accountability you need to maintain your momentum.

Lastly, reconnecting with why your goal is important to you can also help sustain your motivation. This deeper "why" is vital when initial enthusiasm fades. Then, when you are ready, commit to one small action each day that contributes to your long-term success.

Recently, I faced my own unexpected setback while juggling the demands of a busy weekend filled with children's sleepovers and simultaneously battling an unwelcome cold. In the past, my old self might have thrown in the towel and succumbed to frustration, but now I fully recognise that setbacks are a natural and valuable part of the growth process. This week, I’m dedicating my efforts to prioritising rest, staying properly hydrated, getting back on track with my nutrition, and practising mindfulness to nurture both my body and mind.

Remember, self-compassion and genuine curiosity will always serve you much better than feelings of shame. By taking the time to understand why you faced a particular setback and thoughtfully adjusting your approach, you can continue making progress and ultimately move forward more effectively.

If you are interested in finding out how a coach can support you to realise your goals why not get in touch to arrange a free discovery call!

Wishing you a great week ahead!

Carrie Emily Coaching | Mind, Body, Balance.