Why “Setbacks” Are Actually Your Greatest Wins
We often think of setbacks as failures. But what if I told you that those moments are actually your greatest successes?
Let me share a personal experience. A while ago, I found myself in a situation that felt like a setback. After some major shifts in my life—a tough breakup, a challenging depression, and the unexpected loss of my rescue puppy, Archie—I went out for a drink to ease the pain. What started as a simple night out turned into something more than I intended. I drank too much, stayed out too late, and the next day, I was left with deep disappointment.
It felt like I’d undone years of personal development. But here’s the shift that changed everything for me: that feeling of disappointment was actually proof of my growth. When you’re in the process of change, you become aware of when your behaviors no longer serve you—and that awareness is the real victory.
Here’s why those moments of awareness matter: they show you that you’re no longer operating on autopilot. You’ve become conscious of your choices. And that, my friend, is where the real power lies.
So why are setbacks actually wins? Because when you feel disappointment or frustration, it means you’ve moved beyond the point of unconscious behavior. You’ve reached a place where you can make conscious decisions that align with your true values. That’s the pivot point.
Now, how can you reframe these “setbacks” in the moment, turn them into momentum for further growth, and move forward without guilt, shame, or disappointment in yourself?
Tune In to Your Body: When you feel activated or uneasy, don’t ignore it. Your body and intuition are powerful guides. In those moments, pause and ask yourself: What am I feeling here? Am I aligned with my true values? Sometimes you won’t have all the answers right away, and that’s okay. Just make a mental note, and revisit it later.
Regularly Check In With Yourself: This is something I encourage with my clients—Check in with your choices daily or weekly. Ask yourself, Are my actions in line with the life I want to create? If the answer is “no,” don’t judge yourself. Simply note it, and think of ways you can adjust.
Remember That Growth Is a Journey: Growth isn’t a straight line. It’s more like the ebb and flow of the ocean—sometimes calm, sometimes wild—but always moving. The process isn’t about perfection. It’s about embracing every step as a chance to learn and evolve. So don’t be hard on yourself. You’re doing the best you can, and that’s more than enough.
Setbacks are really wins because they reflect your awareness and growth. When you catch yourself in old patterns, you’re experiencing a pivotal moment of change. And it’s in that moment that you can choose a different path—one that aligns more deeply with who you’re becoming.
So, next time you encounter what feels like a setback, take a second. Celebrate your awareness, because that’s the true victory. You’ve just identified the change already occurring within you, and that’s worth recognizing.
Remember, the journey isn’t about perfection. It’s about staying true to yourself and evolving along the way.
Peace & Love,
~ Austen 🤙🏼
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