Dealing with Adversity

“Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome.”

 -Booker T. Washington

Adversity is defined as difficulties, misfortune, bad luck, hardship, or distress. Bosses, employees, contractors, suppliers, weather, circumstances, and customers can be a real source of adversity for any of us in leadership. When we are misunderstood, have our character questioned or our reputation slandered by our co-workers, it is painful. Being misunderstood is the toughest, it seems. When our words or actions are interpreted differently from how we intended them, we feel unfairly called out, maybe even isolated or excluded.

Nick Vujicic has lived with adversity. He was born without arms or legs, due to a rare condition called tetra-amelia syndrome. Growing up, he experienced intense bullying and judgement, which left him feeling isolated and hopeless. Vujicic’s life is an amazing story of focusing on what matters and not falling victim to what others may say or believe about you.

Despite his physical challenges, Vujicic has maintained, even excelled, his determination and perseverance seeing him through times few of us can even imagine. Despite the odds, Vujicic has become an internationally recognized speaker, inspiring millions of people around the world with his positive attitude and messages of hope. My staff and I took some time together and watched a few short videos about Vujicic’s life and message of perseverance. Watching them helped me adjust my way of viewing adversity and put me in the right mindset to deal with my problems at work. 

“Just because I don’t understand god’s plans does not mean that he is not with me.”

-Nick Vujicic

Be sure to watch for my webinar about dealing with adversity in the work place later this summer.

Persevere and cultivate your greatness!

Jeff McManus