When life sets a problem in your lap, are you a half-full or half-empty type of person? My goal is to see the glass is half full and figure out how to fill the rest. Then it happens. An out-of-the-ordinary conflict sits before you. At every turn, rather than filling the glass, your efforts seem to empty it more. Tackling extraordinary challenges provides growth, but first, we need to find our way to the end of the maze of confusion, emotions, and distress. Unlocking your hidden potential and grounding yourself in the present is how we navigate the maze and move forward.

Conflict is a Dirty Word

Foremost, I despise conflict. Please world let me control all the pieces, solve the puzzles, and keep everyone at peace 100% of the time. Harmony is my happy place. But I do not live on the planet alone, so an endless path of sunshine and roses is not in the cards. We are individuals with our own set of experiences, and we are going to disagree. Ready for a big secret–conflict is not bad. I know! This came as a shock to me as well. We use these challenges to discover new solutions and step forward. The trouble is the process is extremely uncomfortable. It is imperative to remember that discomfort is necessary to create change. Not earth-shattering pain. No one needs that kind of energy, but working through the awkward moments makes us stronger.

Ground Yourself in the Present

I’ve never met a dilemma that didn’t make a lot more sense through the rearview mirror. Do you notice yourself saying–if I could do that all over again, I would do X? My friends, looking backward is a waste of spiritual energy. Replaying a scenario on repeat inside your head does not allow you to change it. Instead, you drain your strength wishing for a new past when the present is right here and now. Get out of the past! There are no time machines, rewind buttons, or re-do options. Start to figure out what to do next. Here lies an extraordinary challenge. What am I going to do about it? Don’t have an answer. No problem. Take a moment, weigh the choices, sit with all your emotions, and see what you discover.

Ease Does Not Mean Easy

Focusing your energy on the present and realizing conflict is necessary is an enormous undertaking. Having the recipes for a 12-course meal does not make it appear. Plates are full on the table after you follow the plan in its entirety. Identifying the solution to life’s current disruption may not be easy. Matter-of-fact, it is more feasible that it will be exhausting, emotional, and trying. Through these moments, you tap into the hidden potential that helps you with today’s issue and the one that shows up tomorrow. Life is not static. With every action, we become wiser and more ready for what follows.

Keep Moving Forward

I plan to live a long time. Many days will be peaceful and lovely. Others will be dark and overwhelming. We need both on the journey to uncover who we are and thrive to our greatest potential. As long as you continue to move forward, progress is made. Whether you see the cup as half full or half empty, you have the cup. What you do with it is your choice.