It’s how you act when the situation isn’t optimal that makes the difference

“It’s how you act when the situation isn’t optimal that makes the difference.”

James Clear, Author of Atomic Habits

Image from Unsplash by Thought Catalog

When everything runs smoothly, anyone can shine. But when life throws you curve balls — plans collapse, mood dips, or people disappoint — your true character steps forward.

The moments you least want to show up are the very ones that define you. It’s not about pretending all is well — it’s about choosing grace, focus, and purpose when things aren’t.

Most people wait for ideal conditions to bring their best. The rare ones bring their best because conditions aren’t ideal.

That’s what sets them apart.

Growth doesn’t happen in comfort; it happens in resistance. So, the next time life gets messy, remember —the world is watching who you become when it isn’t easy.

EXERCISE:

What are some examples where people in your life came back from setbacks, faced multiple rejections, or simply persevered though hardships?

How can these examples motivate and inspire you to act more boldly when the situation isn’t optimal?

Notice your internal playlist

Notice your internal playlist.

—Calm App Reflection

Image from Unsplash by Mohammad Metri

The moment we wake up it starts. Our inner voice begins and won’t stop until an undetermined time after our heads hit our pillows. If you — like many people — experience insomnia from time to time, the pause or stop button can be most elusive.

EXERCISE:

What thoughts have you been playing on repeat lately? What pivoting strategies can you apply given this awareness? How can you shift your playlist to one that soothes and serves?

”It’s not what you say out of your mouth that determines your life, it’s what you whisper to yourself that has the most power!”

”It’s not what you say out of your mouth that determines your life, it’s what you whisper to yourself that has the most power!”

—Robert Kiyosaki, American author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad

Image from Unsplash by magnet.me

Thoughts become things. In a typical day, we actually use our inner voices far more than our external ones.

We are constantly having what Susan Scott describes in her book, Fierce Conversations, as versations — which is simply a conversation with ourselves.

The power of bathing in our own thoughts is a form of leadership where we  repeatedly speak about our reality and our vision for the future. This repetition carves deep grooves in our conscious and unconscious minds, which can and often do lead to behaviors that determine our lives.

EXERCISE:

Notice your inner voice whispering to you throughout the day. What is it saying?

Is this voice positive and affirming or negative and judgmental?

How can and will you use the power of versations to enhance your life?