Take Charge of Adversity?
3 steps to help you take charge of adversity

How do you respond to adversity?
Even with the challenges the Coronavirus is presenting to all of us, I believe there are silver linings everywhere that we can gain encouragement from.
The quote graphic above gives hope to the person optimistic enough to look beyond their current situation.
I want to build it out and consider ways we can learn to see the silver lining in the dark clouds of despair.
Another quote by Napoleon Hill offers more encouragement.
Friend, do not become discouraged, disappointed, and disheartened if the seemingly cruel hand of fate knocks you off of your feet! Maybe the blow will prove to be the greatest blessing that ever came your way.
Seeing the silver lining while in the darkness of despair can be learned. May I offer 3 steps that will not only help you to cope with adversity but will also help you to take charge of it.
Step 1: ASK
Ask yourself this question. In how many ways can I look for a silver lining in my current situation? It’s easy to get stuck in doom and gloom. But that’s not where the silver lining is. Get unstuck by asking this question AND writing down your answers.
Journaling is a powerful way to touch your feelings and look for these silver linings.
Step 2: ANTICIPATE
It’s one thing to ask and record your answers to the question above. But it’s also important that you anticipate the silver lining. Believe it will come and look for it. What positive developments are you beginning to see? Again, write down your answers to this question.
Journaling is a powerful way to see and anticipate these silver linings.
Step 3: ACKNOWLEDGE
As this silver lining presents itself, acknowledge it and begin to move in its direction. Your despair will be replaced by a lighted path that will guide you toward life’s progress. In how many ways can you move toward this light? I don’t mean to sound like a broken record. Write down your answers.
Journaling is a powerful way to move toward these silver linings.
Daily Doable: Take charge of adversity! Ask, Anticipate, and Acknowledge your way to the silver lining that awaits you. Make it your daily aim to practice this mindset. It will brighten the darkest of days and position you for success.
Special Announcement
I’ve been impressed by the selflessness of so many people. It’s one of the silver linings that I have noticed during these difficult times. So many are doing what they can to encourage others.
The questions I have asked myself are: How can we acknowledge and move in the direction of these positive individuals? And how can we imitate the things they are doing?
There’s a project that I have been working on for quite some time and it seems now is the time I should share it with others.
If you would like to learn more and be a part of it, please respond in the comments below. This is free to participate in.
During the dark clouds of despair following my Dad’s passing, our friends offered many “silver linings” to our family. The story below is an example that is guiding me to encourage others.

This story considers the idea that maybe your storm is clearing a path for you.

Be inspired by the perspective of Helen Keller and rewarding joy.
This beautiful poem by Simran Kankas amplifies the message of hope.
Please read this encouraging story on gratitude by Dipti Pande.
I’m Author and Storyteller, Tim Maudlin. I would love to connect with you. Details are in the comments below.
This column was originally published on my site at DoWhatYouCanNow.com You can reach me there or email [email protected]