How to Bounce Back from Life’s Minor Blows

Life is full of both good and bad days. Hopefully, yours are filled more with positive things — accomplishments, humor, and happy memories. They can’t all be that way, though.

So when the universe hands you something negative, what do you do with that lemon? Whether it’s personal, professional, or financial, being able to face (and move past) the minor blows in life is important. Your ability to do so can determine the outcome of your current situation. More significantly, however, it can also set the stage for how you navigate problems in the future.

Consider these seven tips when you hit a bump in the road. They could help you bounce back better and stronger.

1. Face Any Health Issues

Suspecting you have a new health problem can be scary. Is it something small or are you potentially heading toward months of doctor’s appointments? Either way, facing it head-on makes it easier and keeps you healthier in the long run.

If you’re like millions of other Americans, the snag you hit could be a sexually transmitted infection (STI), like genital herpes. STIs are extremely common, so don’t stress or feel embarrassed. You will need to take action, though. Fortunately, as with other STIs, genital herpes treatment is readily available, even online. Follow the therapy closely to decrease outbreaks and minimize the risk that you’ll pass it on.

2. Don’t Give in to Self-Pity

We’re not saying don’t get upset when a minor blow comes your way. Just don’t wallow in it. That won’t get you on the path to fixing whatever the problem might be. Do your best to avoid focusing on why a bad thing happened to you.

Instead, try to objectively assess your situation. Think about what decisions or actions might have led to where you are now. Concentrate on what steps you can take or changes you can make to overcome your setback. Take control—analyze your choices and decide on your best course of action.

3. Get Into Problem-Solving Mode

If you’re facing a minor obstacle, it’s a good time to channel your inner Vanilla Ice. If you’ve got a problem, it’s time to solve it! Take it slowly, though. When you’re facing one of life’s little hurdles, knee-jerk decisions may not lead to the best outcomes.

Look at your problem from multiple angles. If you’ve faced a similar issue in the past, what’s worked to fix it? Making a list can be helpful here. Write down the various things you could do to move past this stumbling block. Then narrow it to a few things you can try that you think might work best. Give each one a shot.

If your first attempt doesn’t work, don’t throw your hands in the air. Stay in problem-solving mode until you know your dilemma is behind you.

4. Sweat It Out

Photo by Victor Freitas on Unsplash

Have you ever noticed how good you feel after a workout? Or has one of your jogging buddies ever talked about the “runner’s high?” That post-exercise euphoria is real, and it can be your best friend when your life goes a little off course.

When you exercise and push your muscles, your body releases endorphins. They’re “happy” chemicals that can put you in a better frame of mind to handle the curveballs life throws you. Plus, working out helps you flush cortisol — the stress hormone — out of your body. Basically, you sweat away your stress. So, take a long walk, practice your sprints, swim some laps, or pump iron. Just get your heart rate up and work up a sweat.

5. Meditate

Don’t feel like spending an hour at the gym or hitting the pavement? That’s OK. Slowing down can also be helpful. Meditation can also be an effective strategy for overcoming life’s pitfalls. It gives you a chance to relax, breathe deeply, and free your mind of frustrations.

You can use a mantra (a repeated word) or guided imagery to help keep you calm and focused. Yoga, tai chi, and Qi gong are also great options that combine controlled, purposeful movements and meditation. Giving these activities a try can reduce your stress and help clear your mind. With a calmer, more positive mindset, you’re better equipped to rebound from problems.

6. Be Social

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When life knocks you down, it’s tempting to retreat and isolate yourself. Being alone can be a good idea for a little while. Going solo for too long, though, can make it harder for you to push back against your troubles.

Consider being more socially active instead. Your friends and family (and even your co-workers!) can be a great support network when your life takes a turn. Accept an invitation for lunch or agree to a weekend excursion. You’ll feel more positive and confident if you spend time with people you care about.

7. Ask for Help

This one might seem like a no-brainer. Sometimes it’s hard to remember to ask for help, however. Actually doing it can be even more difficult. If you’re struggling with a setback, reaching out for a helping hand can make all the difference.

Including others in your troubles can bring you the advice, support, or encouragement that you need. It could even lead to some great brainstorming on how you can conquer your obstacles. Just remember that whatever you’re going through, you don’t have to do it alone.
Everyday life is filled with ups and downs. Hopefully your hurdles will be few and far between. When they do happen, give these tips a try. They can help you be resilient so you can more easily bounce back from life’s minor blows.