1. Learn the lesson
Questions to consider:
- How can this set back make me stronger?
- What can I learn from this failure?
2. Revisit your motivation
When things are bad, negativity will keep you from seeing things as they really are. Rather than focusing your attention on all of your deficiencies, take a few minutes to reflect on why you decided to take this journey in the first place. Keeping things in perspective will give you the strength to keep your head up and run against the wind.
Questions to consider:
- What do I want to accomplish?
- How do I want to be remembered?
- What do I want to become in the process?

3. Make a plan
Its been said,
“Without a plan, there’s no attack. Without attack, no victory.”
The key to triumph is to plan for it. Rock bottom is the perfect place to start building, so while you’re down there, design the blue print for your future success.
Questions to consider:
In order to be successful…
- What do I need to start doing?
- What do I need to stop doing?
- What do I need to continue to do?
4. Keep it simple
Refuse to fall into the trap of trying to make up for all of your mistakes at one time. If your plans for success require a complete mental and behavioral overhaul—start small. Focus on one thing you need to improve, and develop it until it becomes a habit; then move on to the next one. When you’re starting over, you need to recommit to focusing on the process; and if you consistently do so, the results will follow.
Questions to consider:
- What are my priorities?
- What can I control right now?
If you’re currently lying on the canvas listening to the referee counting you out; take courage in knowing that anyone who’s ever achieved great things has experienced the pain of being knocked down—so you’re in good company. Take a deep breath. Get up. Get going.


