Adversity is inevitable as I walk on the path to my dreams.  When adversity pays an unwelcome visit, I modify my plans, stick to my purpose, and never surrender my dreams.  My strategy for dealing with adversity has six steps.

First, I don’t panic.  I step back from the problem and regain my composure.  I deal with adversity only after I have a positive state of mind.

Second, I make a limited and orderly retreat.  I sacrifice only those things that are truly expendable.  It’s rare that a mistake is so large that all is lost.  A limited and orderly retreat is better than total unconditional surrender. 

Third, I assess the situation.  There are always many alternative ways of responding, and I usually have enough control over the situation that I can select an acceptable response rather than have a single course of action dictated by my adversaries.

Fourth, I identify my resources and prepare them for action.  My counterattack is on a scale consistent with my available resources, and my objective is in the realm of possibility.

Fifth, I act only after everything is in place and ready to go.  Once I am ready, I take enthusiastic, positive, and fearless action. 

Sixth, I never quit.  No matter what happens, I will not surrender.  As long as I don’t quit, adversity and setbacks are only detours on the road to my dreams.

Excerpt from :

Maximum Strength Positive Thinking : What to Say When You Talk to Your Mind

David J Abbott M.D.