
Lately, I tried to stick to a schedule of activities and healthy eating plans for the winter season. Unfortunately, keeping up with it has been tough, and I’ve sometimes felt discouraged. But I don’t want to give up just yet. Maybe my experience can be a source of inspiration for someone else who is struggling with a similar situation.
Overcoming Challenges and Obstacles

I’ve been through many tough times in my life, like getting divorced, losing a job, starting life several times over from nothing, dealing with complicated relationships, losing my father, and being constantly harassed by toxic leadership while in the military.
Starting something new can be exciting, right? But sometimes, our expectations need to match up with what actually happens. Maybe we thought we had everything under control, but then we discovered that people are unpredictable.
Or we thought we had the discipline to stick to a new habit, but it’s harder than we thought. And let’s not forget that sometimes situations don’t turn out as positive as we had hoped. It’s important to be flexible and adjust our expectations based on reality.

Acknowledge that dreams may not always come true, but approach with an open mind and adjust expectations to overcome obstacles confidently.
Dealing with setbacks can be tough, and they can make you doubt yourself. But you know what? I believe in my own worth and strength, and I won’t let any challenge get the best of me.
Even when I am feeling low, I strive to maintain a positive outlook and keep an open mind, regardless of what life throws at me. We all face obstacles, but I have discovered that there is always a way to surmount them. Even if things do not go according to plan, I still attempt to concentrate on the good and derive something positive from the experience.
The Way Out

Reflecting on past challenges and solutions helps me navigate current obstacles.
When my family and I moved to Portugal, getting used to a new country, language, school, and friends was tough. But I soon realized there were also some good things, like having my family by my side, staying healthy, and having a cute little pet to keep me company. Life has its ups and downs, but learning to appreciate both can make it all worth it.

Sometimes, I really wish to be more like others, super organized and on top of things. But I’ve learned to love and accept myself just as I am. Sure, I make mistakes and get frustrated, but I always try to fix them and keep pushing forward.
I really enjoy cooking, taking pictures, and working out. And when I need to, I make sure to take some time to relax and recharge. All of these things are what make me! And that’s totally okay.
I embrace my negative emotions because acknowledging them enables me to manage them effectively. Otherwise, suppressing or ignoring negative emotions can further distress and hinder personal growth.
In my experience, setbacks are only temporary and can be overcome with time. Even in challenging situations such as divorce, each day presents an opportunity for improvement and growth. Life is a journey full of changes, but with perseverance and patience, things will inevitably get better.
Expressing gratitude may seem cliché, but it always works wonders for me.
Overcoming Back From a Setback

During moments of sadness, it’s helpful to take a step back and appreciate the things we have in life. Whether it’s the love of our family or the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread, even the smallest things can bring joy and improve our overall well-being.
I believe difficult times can teach us valuable lessons and help us become stronger. If you’re facing a challenge, know that you’re not alone and that your effort is worthwhile. Remember, our obstacles shape our strength.