The Power of Trying Again

 

Don’t Give Up
 Subtitle: “Life’s Tough? Grab a Donut First!”

I get it — life is hard. Sometimes it feels like you’re out of lives and are locked in a boss battle that is seemingly impossible. But here’s the thing: you’re not alone, and you’re not out of options. You might just need a new plan. And a snack.
When I feel like throwing in the towel, I think of one time I couldn’t open a jar of pickles. I twisted, I turned, and I almost gave up. When suddenly, a lightbulb went off — I could pry the lid off with the back of a spoon. Of course, I succeeded, and they were the best pickles I’d ever tasted because I had really earned it.

The Power of Trying Again

When you quit, it feels effortless. But how good does it feel to get back up? You’re developing what we like to call a muscle: grit. Grit is what help many people run marathons, finish jigsaw puzzles, and complete their homework.
Consider Thomas Edison. Thomas Edison did not invent the light bulb on his first attempt. He failed — repeatedly. But he kept at it. What if he had said, “Never mind. I’m just going to use candles for the rest of my life.” Would we still be in the dark?

What If It’s Really Hard?

Let’s be honest. Some things take a lot more work than opening a pickle jar or running a marathon. Like trying to make new friends when you have just moved to a new place. Or trying to learn something new when it seems like everyone else is already better than you. 
Just remember the trick; break it down into tiny steps. Don’t try to take on the world in one day. Just focus on what you can do today. Baby steps still get you moving forward.

The Secret Weapon: Laughter

When you’re feeling trapped, laugh at your predicament. Have you ever witnessed a cat trapped in a cardboard box? They wiggle, squirm and finally… are free. Remembering that always reminds me: if cats can, so can I. When we laugh we take the pressure off and it keeps us from being too serious. So when you fumble the ball, don’t wallow in your disappointment — chuckle, giggle, forefinger and try again.

Remember Why You Started

Try to remember why you started to begin with. Was it to make someone proud? To finish a dream project? Or just to prove to yourself you could? Remembering your ultimate goal, and what you wanted to achieve by taking on this challenge can motivate you when you’re in a rut.

You’ve Got This

Life can be tough, but it’s worth the fight. The next time you feel like quitting, take a deep breath, grab a donut (or whatever your favorite treat is), and remind yourself that you are tougher than whatever it is you have to deal with.