Right now, I’m writing my first blog post ever and I am feeling the challenge!

So often we hear of people feeling challenged, or we ourselves feel overwhelmed by certain things, some small, some large, and sometimes by a conglomeration of things – possibly by life itself.

I went online and looked up the word “challenge” and I found synonyms for the verb such as “contest”, “dispute”, “question”. Similarly, for the noun, words like “complaint”, “difficulty”, “objection”, “protest”, “question”. All seemingly with a negative connotation.

In contrast I really liked what the antonyms for the verb revealed – “accept”, “believe”, “embrace” – all very positive words. Pretty obvious maybe, but it got me thinking, if we could just flip each negative situation on its head, then what?

Often when I think of the word “challenge”, the image of a classic sword fight or duel, comes to mind – an extreme, aggressive way of resolving an impasse. That said, if both parties agree to the rules of the challenge then there is always a clear loser and winner. What if we could always be the winner, not by cheating but by changing the rules so that they were always in our favour?

The good news is that when it comes to our modern-day challenges, you can.

The next time you encounter certain obstacles, or difficult times, try a moment of quiet introspection and consider two questions:

  • Do you really need to view this as something negative?
  • Can I allow myself to see it as an opportunity, where I come out the winner?

I know that in every case my answer to the first question is a resounding “NO”. I accept that there may be negative outcomes but at the same time I believe there are always possible positive outcomes too. I choose to be realistic but to still place more focus on the positives.

My answer to the second question is a very definite “YES”.

So next time you’re feeling challenged, don’t let it get to you. Rather embrace it.  Remind yourself to look at it differently, positively. Remember, each challenge has the potential to teach you something…

  • What is it?
  • How do I turn it to my advantage?
  • This can be a significant growth experience – what can I learn from it?
  • Embrace it and smile

Personally, I love a challenge. My challenge to you is “rise to the challenge” and enjoy being challenged.

“You have more potential than you think, but you will never know your full potential unless you keep challenging yourself and pushing beyond your own self imposed limits.”
―  Roy T. Bennett, The Light in the Heart