Course Correction
My solo walk through the woods last month was supposed to be a 16-mile round trip. When I got to mile 15, I was getting excited to be nearing the end. My legs were tired, my feet were achy, and my back was tight from carrying a heavy backpack for two days. I was ready to be done. But when I saw the trail sign, I realized I had taken a wrong turn. I didn’t have one mile to go. I had 4.4 more miles to go!!! That felt like an eternity at that point.
After a few choice words for myself, I turned myself around and backtracked to get back on the right path. It was hard. I was mad and I almost let it un-do all the wonderful benefits I experienced on the journey,
It reminded me of the many times I have made a mistake in life, work, or a relationship and wanted to beat myself up. That really doesn’t do any good and it was not going to do me any good on the trail.
Here is what I did to get my head right and finish victoriously. This approach works on a mountain trail, at home, at work, or anywhere in life.
Reflect on Your Reactions – I was irritated, upset, and disappointed in myself. I thought about the “trigger” that made me think about those things. Besides the fact that I was tired and ready to be done, I am frankly not good with directions. This was feeding into that narrative. That moment of self-awareness helped me shift my vision. Check-in with your emotions so you don’t overreact.
Find the Good – As a result of my wrong turn, I got to see a beautiful valley with thousands of yellow wildflowers in the field. I would not have gotten to experience that lovely sight if I had made the right turn. There is always a silver lining. You just have to look for it.
Focus on Solutions – I thought through various options like continuing another mile to the trailhead and hitchhiking back to my car. I also thought about running back. While either of those options might have been quicker, it was not wise for my well-being. The best solution was to backtrack. As painful as it might seem to have to re-do something you have worked hard on, sometimes that is the best solution.
Seek Support – On my backtracking journey, I asked every hiker I encountered if I was headed in the right direction. I did not want to make another mistake. I also met some very nice people. Don’t be too proud to ask for help.
Use this week’s Express Desk Stretch video to course-correct your day.
Inquiry Question: The next time things don’t go according to plan, what can you do to shift your perspective to find the good in it?
Last chance: I am offering a one-hour online workshop this Friday, October 27th, at 10amET on how to manage stress in the moment. Stress is already an issue for many, and this time of year tends to ramp that up. If that is you, join me. I have been working with companies across North America on this workshop and now I am offering it to individuals. It is simple to do, and it works. Find out more here.
If you are finding value in these posts, please share them with family, friends, and colleagues.
Kindly,
Anita