We all hit roadblocks or face adversity at some point in our careers. But when the most successful people in the world tell their stories, they often describe how a major setback they faced became a catalyst for success. They not only learnt valuable lessons from their misfortune, but they were able to turn adversity into opportunity.
6 success traits that arise from catalyst moments
When we hit a major stumbling block in our career, we often go into crisis mode. We can then make bad decisions because we’re overly focused on fixing the issue as quickly as possible or saving face. But if we take the time to step back and strategise about how we could turn a problem into a possibility, we’re much more likely to achieve great outcomes.
Handling the worst moments in our lives effectively helps us develop and strengthen qualities that can lead to future success. Here are six traits you’ll hone by seizing catalyst moments.
- Keeping your cool
Losing your mind when something bad happens rarely improves the situation. Taking the time to define the problem, seek solutions and take action will help you navigate your issues and come out the other side stronger and wiser. Take a deep breath, stay focused and resist the urge to act impulsively. You’ve got this.
- Letting go
When you dwell on hardships, you can’t make space in your mind for opportunities. Successfully overcoming an obstacle will help you let go of it and revel in your success (even if it was only a small win). If you notice yourself ruminating on past failures, close your eyes and visualise some of your past successes. Try to recall how you felt and stay in that moment as long as you can.
- Being flexible
It doesn’t matter how rich or powerful you become, challenges and change are inevitable. Every time you successfully deal with a roadblock on your path, you learn to see it for what it really is – an opportunity. You become more flexible and agile – two qualities that are essential for success in today’s business world.
- Taking risks
Solving a problem often involves taking calculated risks. While taking the leap into the unknown can feel scary, achieving big things requires stepping outside your comfort zone. Note that the keyword here is “calculated” – it’s critical to have all the facts and data you need to make an informed decision.
- Living in the present
If you spend all your time worrying about the past or the future, you’ll get stuck and you won’t achieve your goals. Seizing a catalyst moment requires living in the present. When you notice your mind focusing on what was or might be, bring it back to the here and now by focusing on your breath or an object in your surroundings.
- Getting comfortable with failure
Most of all, catalyst moments teach us that failure isn’t the end of the world. We can fall over and get back up time and time again. The only real failure is in living such a risk-averse life that you never fall over in the first place.
Seize the (Catalyst) Moment
When we learn to seize opportunities that arise from challenging situations, we develop the skills we need to succeed. Paying attention to catalyst moments and making the most of them will help you smash all your business goals.
