Have you ever played a game of checkers with a young child? The games usually go a little something like this: Each turn that results in a lost piece prompts a total loss of concentration. They become addled, frustrated, and absorbed in the loss of a single piece rather than focused on moving forward strategically. In fact, often there are several winning moves open, but all they can see is what has been lost. While this is completely natural for a youngster who has been newly introduced to the game, it all too often mirrors the way we address our “adult” problems in life in a similar fashion.
When the plan we have so carefully crafted is disrupted by an unexpected misfortune (or even a minor frustration), it can be easy to focus most of our attention on the problem rather than zeroing in on positive actions that we can take to mitigate the negative impact of the unforeseen distraction. Simply put, when we focus on the problem, our momentum is lost. When we view setbacks as minor and inconsequential, our energy can be used to move us forward. Not to mention, we often realize opportunities that were made possible by what we perceived as a problem.
One strategy to riding the wave instead of being pummeled by it is to expect adversity to come. It is not a matter of IF, but WHEN. With that mindset, it isn’t a shock to be faced with a detour. As a seasoned checkers player, you expect to lose pieces. But it only takes one piece to win.
Remember, stay focused on the positive instead of losing your vision due to negative setbacks. Who knows, it may even make you a better opponent when playing checkers.