We must be ready to accept the ephemeral, the unexpected and the feeling of insecurity that we experience when faced with the unknown.
Last update: 18 September, 2020
Unforeseen situations force us to get out of our comfort zone, that place where safety is like a rope to cling to and keep stable. Sometimes they can hit us so hard that they leave us paralyzed and undecided on what to do, on how to deal with unforeseen events.
It is true that most of the surprises that break into our life are not really that important. In some cases, however, they can lead to painful situations that alter our emotional balance. It is no coincidence that many of us like to be in control of situations, of life in general, because this is how we feel comfortable.
Uncertainty, however, is always present, as are the unexpected. Nothing is permanent; we should be ready to accept the ephemeral, the unexpected and the feeling of insecurity we feel when faced with the unknown.
Here, then, is how to deal with unforeseen events.
The 4 keys to dealing with unforeseen events
Stop before you act
The first strategy for dealing with unforeseen events is avoid reacting impulsively, that is, letting oneself be advised by fear. For this reason it is better to pause for reflection and understand why we ended up in this situation.
It might not be easy, but it's worth it, especially as you'll avoid doing something you regret later.
The first moments are perhaps the most difficult to manage, but also crucial. That's why it's so important to stay calm and not get carried away by the impulse. The first steps must be taken with determination.
Don't forget that by taking the time to think, you are giving yourself the opportunity to make a better choice. Breathe deeply and count to ten - this is helpful in most cases.
"Life catches us off guard and forces us to walk into the unknown when we don't want it, when we don't need it."
-Paulo Coelho-
Focus on long-term goals
The next step in dealing with unforeseen events is remember what your long-term goals are. This means letting go of short-term thinking, which helps you prioritize your true needs. It will also serve you to distance yourself from the problem and be able to observe it from multiple points of view.
Don't worry too much about the immediate problems you encounter while trying to solve the unexpected. Focus on the positives, the goals and everything that can be learned from the experience.
Maintain a positive attitude
Having a positive attitude is an advantage in situations that happen between the head and the neck, although not all unforeseen events come to harm.
In any case, changing your approach is a matter of attitude, effort and training. From every situation we can derive a positive reading. Sometimes what appears to us as a problem, or even a disaster, can be an opportunity. This is because a negative event can awaken the ambition, motivation or stubbornness that lead us to success or progress.
An example could be dismissal. Even a dramatic event like losing your job can ultimately be an opportunity to find a better job, more suitable for us or that makes us happier.
You are not alone in dealing with unforeseen events
When life shows its worst face, it is very easy to withdraw into one's pain. In these moments it must be remembered that there are certainly other people who have gone through a similar or even worse situation. You are not the only ones with setbacks.
Talking to people who have had an experience similar to yours can help you feel understood and listened to. It is also a chance to get to know other points of view and strategies for dealing with the situation.
Finally, be aware that while we don't like the company of uncertainty, it comes to visit us from time to time. The unexpected will continue to happen. The important thing is to work on accepting events to gain momentum, move forward and, of course, keep growing.
