Surrounded by Setbacks

Everyone encounters setbacks, obstacles and seemingly insurmountable challenges throughout their lives. Many of these can demotivate us, slow us down, or stop us altogether on the way to our goals. However, the book "Surrounded by Setbacks" by Thomas Erikson shows that every obstacle holds within it an opportunity for growth. Through practical advice and psychological insights, he teaches us how to change our perspective on setbacks, turn them into stepping stones to success, and use them as tools to build a stronger and more resilient personality. Erikson's work is not only an inspirational guide, but also a challenge to actively rethink one's own approach to life. In individual chapters, the book discusses essential principles such as accepting personal responsibility, setting clear goals, flexibility, resilience, and the ability to tap into one's own strengths. Each idea is practically applicable and underscores the fact that success is not about the absence of obstacles, but about the ability to tackle them with determination and the right attitude.

Setbacks are often seen as evidence of one's own incompetence, but in reality they are an indispensable element of personal development. The life stories of many successful individuals remind us that setbacks are opportunities for learning. Imagine Thomas Edison, who faced thousands of failed attempts before discovering the light bulb. Instead of disappointment, he saw each failed experiment as a step closer to his goal. This view of failure builds resilience and opens up space for creativity. Failure is like rough mountain terrain that forces one to develop new skills and strategies. When a climber loses a hold on a steep wall, he does not stay lying down, but looks for a new way to continue. This principle holds true in life. When we get rejected at a job interview or our business plan fails, we have the opportunity to rethink our approaches, learn and grow. Failures are not an indicator of our worth, but a test of our resilience. An important lesson is to distinguish between short-term failure and ultimate failure. When Thomas J. Watson lost his job at NCR (National Cash Register Company) in 1914 because of poor decisions, he decided to start his own company. IBM later became a world leader in technology. Watson learned from his mistakes, and this set him on the path to future success. Accepting failure, however, requires the ability to self-analyze. It is not enough to simply ignore or avoid failure. We need to ask ourselves, "What could I have done differently? What lessons can I take away?" This process allows us to transform failure into a valuable tool that moves us forward. Failure often also shapes our empathy and compassion for others. A person who has survived setbacks better understands others and can offer support. This aspect is the foundation of personal and professional leadership. A leader who has faced difficulties will be an inspiration to his or her team because he or she understands the value of perseverance. If we accept setbacks as an integral part of our journey, we learn to see them as temporary setbacks, not as a final verdict. Like a mountain stream that finds a new path through rocky terrain, we can find new, perhaps even better paths through obstacles. The result will be not only greater success, but also a firmer belief in our own abilities.

In life, we often encounter situations that seem beyond our control. Job loss, relationship conflicts or unexpected obstacles can disrupt our plans and leave us feeling helpless. Yet there is one aspect that we can always control - our reactions. Personal responsibility lies in accepting that how we react to circumstances determines our future direction. The story of Viktor Frankl, author of Man's Search for Meaning, is one of the most powerful examples of personal responsibility. Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, came to the conclusion that even in the most difficult circumstances, a person can find freedom - the freedom to choose his or her attitude. His experience shows that control over one's own mind is stronger than external circumstances, no matter how harsh. Personal responsibility, however, does not mean that we are to assign blame for everything that happens. Rather, it is a conscious decision to focus on what we can control, rather than lamenting what we cannot. For example, if an employee encounters unfair treatment, his or her response - whether it's calmly discussing the situation, seeking a new opportunity or developing his or her own skills - can move him or her forward. The ability to take control of reactions is closely linked to emotional intelligence. The ability to recognize our own emotions and consciously manage them helps us to handle stressful situations with detachment. In practice, this means avoiding impulsive decisions and focusing on long-term solutions that lead to positive outcomes. In everyday life, taking responsibility can be demonstrated in small steps. Instead of blaming traffic for arriving late, we can plan to leave early. When we fail to reach a goal, we can rethink our approach and use the failure as an opportunity to improve. Personal responsibility is the foundation of personal development because it allows us to feel in control of our own lives. The more we focus on what we can control, the more we build confidence and the ability to overcome obstacles. This approach turns chaos into order and despair into action. If we can accept responsibility for our reactions, we become the creators of our own path. It is not an easy task, but the results are worth it. Because life is not changed by what happens to us, but by how we choose to respond to it.

Life without goals is like a road without a map - messy, uncertain and often leads to frustration. But goal setting is not just about making a wish list. The key is to make goals clear, specific and realistically achievable. Otherwise, we run the risk of them remaining just unrealized dreams. Successful goals are those that meet the SMART principles - they are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound. Imagine an athlete who wants to prepare for a marathon. Instead of the vague goal of "getting better at running," he or she sets a clear goal: "In six months, run a marathon in less than four hours." This goal contains all the elements of SMART and provides a concrete path to achieve it. Goal planning requires self-reflection and prioritization. We can't accomplish everything at once. If a student sets out to get a degree, learn a new language, and still start a business in one year, they are likely to burn out. The key is to identify the most important goals and break them down into smaller, manageable steps. This strategy not only increases the likelihood of success, but also eliminates the feeling of being overwhelmed. Successful people, such as Elon Musk, often work with visionary goals, but always break them down into specific phases. Musk's vision of colonising Mars is ambitious, but it starts with practical steps: developing a rocket, testing flights and building infrastructure. This approach shows that even the biggest dreams can be broken down into concrete actions. Vague or exaggerated goals can lead to demotivation. If a goal seems unattainable, we are likely to abandon it. For example, if someone who has never exercised plans to lose 20 kilograms in a month, they will quickly discover that this goal is unrealistic. Better to start with smaller, specific goals, such as a regular 30-minute walk five times a week. When setting goals, it's important to involve emotions as well. Goals should motivate us and give us purpose. If our goal is only what those around us expect of us, we are likely to lose motivation. Conversely, a goal that resonates with our values and desires will give us the energy and determination to persevere. Setting clear and achievable goals is the foundation of all success. When we have a map in front of us that guides us step by step, we feel more confident and motivated. Such a journey not only brings us closer to our dreams, but allows us to grow and find meaning in each step.

Life is full of unexpected changes. Our plans may be perfectly thought out, but reality often has a way of its own. Flexibility and adaptability are key qualities that allow us to handle these unexpected challenges and keep moving forward even when circumstances change dramatically. History offers many examples of how flexibility can determine success. During World War II, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill faced critical situations that required quick and creative solutions. Instead of rigidly sticking to his original strategies, he was able to rethink plans and respond to the ever-changing conditions of the war. His ability to adapt gave Britain the resilience and hope it needed. Flexibility is not just the ability to change plans. It is first and foremost a way of thinking. People who can adapt see setbacks not as the end of the road but as an opportunity to find a new direction. For example, if an entrepreneur discovers that his product is not gaining the expected interest in the marketplace, instead of giving up, he can refocus on a different target audience or modify the product itself according to the needs of the customers. However, adaptation is not always easy. It often requires overcoming the internal resistance to change that is a natural part of the human psyche. The ability to accept that change is inevitable and to work with it instead of rejecting it is an essential step. In order to be flexible, we also need emotional stability - the ability to cope with the stress and uncertainty associated with unpredictable situations. The modern world, especially the work environment, is constantly changing. Digitalisation and new technologies have changed the way we work and communicate. Companies that have been able to adapt quickly, such as Netflix, have survived and thrived. Originally a mail-order movie rental service, it has moved into online streaming and has become a global leader in the entertainment industry. This example shows that the ability to anticipate and adapt to change is often the difference between success and failure. Flexibility also applies to our personal lives. Relationships, family or health bring situations that require new approaches and priorities. If someone injures their foot before a planned marathon, it doesn't have to mean the end of their efforts. He or she can focus on a different type of training or change the goal to a later date. This ability to adapt allows us to maintain a positive outlook and continue to grow. Adaptation and flexibility are not about completely resigning to the original plans, but about finding new paths when the old ones no longer work. These qualities teach us that it doesn't matter how often circumstances change - we always have the ability to adapt and keep moving forward. In the end, it is not strength, but the ability to adapt that determines our survival and success.

Resilience is not an innate trait, but an ability that anyone can build. In today's fast-paced world, we face constant challenges - from work stress to personal loss. Without the ability to manage pressure and restore inner balance, we would quickly deplete our strength and motivation. Resilience is like a spring that temporarily bends when loaded, but always returns to its original state. In 2008, when the world was in an economic crisis, many companies collapsed. But companies like Ford have shown remarkable resilience. Instead of looking for quick fixes, they focused on long-term strategies that involved innovation and optimisation. Their ability to cope with pressure was key to their recovery and further development. Building resilience starts in the head. A mind-set that accepts problems as temporary and solvable is essential. This does not mean that we are to deny difficulties, but rather to accept them and look for ways to work through them. When an athlete suffers an injury, he or she does not stop training, but adapts the training regimen to promote healing. This approach illustrates how proactive problem solving strengthens our mental resilience. Stress is a natural part of life, but prolonged exposure to its negative effects can undermine our physical and mental health. That's why it's important to learn tools for coping with stress. Effective strategies include mindfulness, which helps us focus on the present moment, or physical activity, which reduces stress hormone levels. Good quality sleep is also an important element - an essential condition for the recovery of both body and mind. Resilience is also built through a supportive environment. People who have a network of loved ones around them are better able to cope with challenging situations. Family, friends and colleagues can be a source of encouragement and practical help. The story of Malala Yousafzai, who continued to fight for girls' rights to education after an attack on her life, shows the immense power of neighbourhood support combined with inner resilience. Our reactions to stress often determine whether we continue to progress or stagnate. Taking short breaks, breathing consciously and recognizing our own limits are practical steps that enable us to cope with challenging situations. In addition, each obstacle overcome strengthens our ability to face the next challenge. Building resilience is like investing in your own life. Every stress we manage makes us stronger and ready for the next challenge. It is not a process that happens overnight, but a long-term journey where we gain confidence and peace of mind. Ultimately, our ability to bounce back from the bottom defines not only our successes, but also our quality of life.

Growth mindset, a concept developed by psychologist Carol Dweck, is a key tool for overcoming obstacles and pushing our own boundaries. People with a growth mindset believe that abilities and skills are not fixed, but can be developed through learning and effort. Conversely, limiting beliefs keep us trapped in stagnation as we subconsciously accept that we "can't do" something or that failure is the final verdict. Imagine a student who listens to phrases like "Math isn't for everyone" in math class. If he accepts this view as his truth, he will give up any effort to improve. Conversely, if he adopts the idea that even apparent weakness can be overcome with work and practice, he will begin to look for ways to improve. With a growth mindset, he has overcome his limitations and moved forward. Limiting beliefs are often the result of childhood experiences, social norms, or failures. "I'm not creative," "I have no talent for languages" or "Entrepreneurship is not for me" - such phrases can cripple any initiative. To overcome them, these thoughts must first be identified and challenged. Often a simple question will help: "What proof do I have that this is true?" In most cases, we find that our limitations are more self-delusion than reality. A growth mindset motivates us to experiment, learn from mistakes, and continually grow. An example is Thomas Edison, who went through thousands of failed experiments before discovering the light bulb. His famous statement "I have not failed, I have only found 10,000 ways that don't work" is a perfect illustration of growth mindset. He didn't see failures as failures, but as part of the process. Adopting a growth mindset includes a willingness to step out of your comfort zone. For example, if someone decides to learn a new language, initially they will not avoid making mistakes. However, if, instead of shame, he or she adopts the attitude, "Each mistake moves me closer to fluency," he or she will gain the courage to continue. This process deepens not only ability but also self-confidence. In modern psychology, there is increasing talk of neuroplasticity - the brain's ability to change its structure and function based on experience. This biological fact supports growth mindset because it proves that learning and improvement are possible at any age. Removing limiting beliefs and adopting a growth mindset is like unlocking the door to a world of new possibilities. It's not just about achieving goals, it's about building the resolve to face challenges and see them as opportunities for growth. When we realize that our potential is not fixed, we begin to believe in the infinite possibilities for our own development.

Each person has unique strengths that set them apart and give them an advantage in overcoming challenges. Recognizing these strengths and using them strategically helps us achieve our goals more effectively. At the same time, it is essential to realize that no one is an island. Support from those around us can motivate us, complement our weaknesses and provide new perspectives. Recognising our own strengths starts with self-reflection. Imagine a professional soccer player who realizes that he is not the fastest player on the field, but excels in tactics and game overview. If he develops these skills, he can be just as valuable a player as one who relies on his speed. By focusing on what we do well, we can eliminate the frustration of weaknesses and maximize our performance. However, our strength lies not only in our own abilities, but also in our willingness to work with others. Take Steve Jobs, for example, who may have excelled at vision and marketing, but his success would not have been possible without partnering with Steve Wozniak, a technical genius. This symbiosis shows that harnessing the talents of others can multiply our own results. The support of those around us plays an important role, especially when we face obstacles. A network of people who inspire and encourage us gives us the strength to carry on. It's not just about professional relationships - close friends, family or mentors can be a source of emotional stability and advice. Research shows that those with strong social connections are better able to manage stress and are more resilient to setbacks. Taking advantage of the support of those around you is not a sign of weakness, but of a wise approach. During the famous expedition to the South Pole in 1911, Roald Amundsen proved that teamwork is the key to success. His team had prepared thoroughly, divided the tasks according to the abilities of the individuals and managed to triumphantly reach the goal, while the competitors, who neglected coordination, faced tragedy. An important part of collaboration is the willingness to accept feedback. A person who listens to the advice of others and admits that he or she does not know everything opens the door to growth. Successful entrepreneurs who gather experts around them and are inspired by their insights are an example. The combination of one's own strengths and the support of those around them is a powerful tool for tackling challenges and achieving success. If we can not only use our skills but also involve others, our opportunities multiply. A strong team, based on mutual respect and complementarity, is a prerequisite not only for individual but also for collective success.

Surrounded by Setbacks is not just a book about overcoming obstacles, but also about changing mindsets. Thomas Erikson leads us to understand that failure is not definitive, but is an important part of the learning and growth process. His view of setbacks as opportunities inspires us not to give up but to seek new paths, to improve and to strengthen our resilience. The book emphasizes that the key to success is a combination of personal responsibility, a growth mindset, and the ability to adapt. Moreover, it teaches that we do not go it alone in life - support from others and tapping into our own strengths can take us further than we could on our own. Filled with practical advice and inspiring examples, Erikson's philosophy reminds us that even in the most difficult moments, we have the power to turn failure into success if we allow ourselves to believe in ourselves and learn from each step. Do you have feedback for us? We'd love it if you let us know your opinion on our content! Just send an email to feedback@rewio.app with the title of this book in the subject line and share your impressions!