Be A Dream Chaser Part 3 – Expect Disappointments, Delays and Setbacks

“Expect Delays, Disappointments and Setbacks” is the 3^rd segment of the 4 part series Follow Your Dreams.  Previously we discussed how to chart your course, the importance of building a team and today we’ll focus on steps to take when your plans don’t work exactly as you outlined.

Life has a way of throwing curves balls.  We’ve all experienced them.  While we may not be able to anticipate what they may be, we can still plan a course of action we will take when we encounter snags along the way.  It’s normal to go about life without having a plan to adhere to when you experience challenges.  When you are making progress, is the best time to create a plan for handling any challenges you may experience instead of waiting until they occur and then being reactive to them.  Here are 3 suggestions to help navigate challenges:

1. Consider all the possible setbacks you may experience and write an action plan for how you will deal with them should they occur. As you detail your plan for this, ask yourself these questions. What is the purpose behind what you are trying to achieve? What steps can you take to overcome the disappointment, delay or setback? What traits do you want your team members to see in you as you consider your comeback? How will you motivate and encourage yourself and your team?
2. Seek the counsel of your mentors & trusted experienced advisors. Experienced mentors should be able to provide advice on steps they took to overcome delays, disappointments and setbacks. Use the wisdom of your mentors to find solutions to the situation you face.  Experienced mentors also provide hope and inspiration.  They have had delays, disappointments and setbacks and are proof that it doesn’t have to mean the end of your quest to achieve your goal.  Their experiences are reminders that any setback is temporary.
3. Look at the positive side and encourage your team by reminding them of previous successes and motivate them to continue focusing on the goal. Don’t let the team become so focused on the delay, disappointment or setback that they forget the goal and the previous success the team has experienced.  Use this time to help them discover and build inner strength and fortitude.  Take the team on a team building adventure.  Help them to shift focus, build bonds and have a fun time doing so.  This will assist in refreshing them and allow them to return to pursuing the goal with more fervor. Be the example you want your team to be in difficult circumstances.  Display a positive and overcomer attitude.  Believe in yourself, your team and your goals.

The road to achieving your goals will be filled with ups and downs, successes and setbacks.  Don’t make the mistake of thinking it will be totally smooth sailing.  Expect some curves and be sure to not be reactive to them.  Take the time to think about the course of action you’d like to take and characteristic traits you’d like to display prior to experiencing any setbacks and stick to your plan when you encounter challenges.

Tip of the week: Be intentional about your success.  Face the fact that there will be some delays, disappointments and setbacks and ensure you have a plan to overcome them.