Some people seem to have a knack for navigating through lows and pushing forward, even when their world seems to be crumbling.
What’s their secret? How do they keep going when everything around them seems to be falling apart?
I was always curious about this, too, so I decided to investigate and find out what habits these persistent people share.
In this article, I’ll share with you some habits of these folks who always keep pushing forward.
These are habits that anyone can cultivate, including you. Let’s dive in and see how we can all learn to keep progressing, no matter what life throws at us.
1) Embracing the struggle
Let’s face it: life can be challenging. But have you noticed how some people seem to thrive even in the midst of adversity?
I’ve observed that these individuals have a common trait – they embrace the struggle. They understand that life’s challenges are not roadblocks but stepping stones to growth and resilience.
Rather than cowering in the face of difficulties, they confront them head-on. They don’t shy away from the pain or discomfort; instead, they acknowledge it as part of the journey towards their goals.
Embracing struggle doesn’t mean enjoying hardship or seeking out pain. It’s about accepting that difficulties are a natural part of life and can be instrumental in our personal development.
In essence, these individuals view problems as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks. And this perspective makes all the difference when it comes to pushing forward, even when life seems to be falling apart.
2) Practicing gratitude
Practicing gratitude has been a game-changer for me, especially during tough times.
I remember one particular period in my life when everything seemed to be going wrong. I had lost my job, was going through a breakup, and felt like my world was falling apart.
In the midst of this chaos, I stumbled upon a book about the power of gratitude. Skeptical but desperate for a shift in my life, I decided to give it a try.
Every night before bed, I started writing down three things I was grateful for. At first, it was hard. Some days, all I could muster was gratitude for my morning coffee or the roof over my head.
But as I continued this practice, something amazing happened. Despite my circumstances not changing immediately, my perspective did. I began to focus more on what was going right in my life rather than what was going wrong.
This shift in focus didn’t magically solve all my problems, but it gave me the strength to keep pushing forward. It made me realize that even in the darkest times, there are always glimmers of light if we choose to see them.
So, from personal experience, I can tell you that practicing gratitude is a powerful habit that can help you keep pushing forward, no matter how hard life gets.
3) Nurturing a growth mindset
Did you know that the way we perceive our abilities can significantly impact how we handle difficulties in life? This idea is rooted in the concept of ‘growth mindset‘, a term coined by psychologist Carol Dweck.
People with a growth mindset believe that their abilities can be developed through dedication, hard work, and persistence. They view failure not as a measure of their worth but as a learning opportunity.
On the other hand, those with a ‘fixed mindset’ believe their abilities are static, and no amount of effort can change them. They tend to avoid challenges, give up easily, and see effort as fruitless.
When life throws curveballs, those with a growth mindset are more likely to persevere. They see difficulties not as insurmountable obstacles, but as challenges that they can overcome with effort and determination.
4) Maintaining a support network
It’s often said that we are the sum of the people we spend the most time with.
And it’s true. The support network you maintain can make a significant difference when you’re navigating through the storms of life.
These are the individuals who will lend you an ear when you need to vent, provide a different perspective when you’re feeling stuck, and offer a helping hand when you’re struggling.
But maintaining a supportive network is not just about having people to lean on. It’s also about reciprocating that support. It’s about showing up for others in their times of need just as they show up for you.
It’s okay to lean on others when times get tough. We are social creatures after all, and having a strong support network can be instrumental in helping us push forward, even when it feels like our life is falling apart.
5) Prioritizing self-care
There was a time in my life when I was so focused on my career that I neglected my health and well-being. I was working long hours, eating poorly, and barely had time for exercise or relaxation.
Then one day, I woke up feeling completely burned out. I realized that by neglecting my self-care, I was doing more harm than good. My productivity plummeted, my relationships suffered, and my overall happiness took a hit.
That’s when I decided to make self-care a priority. I started eating healthier, incorporated regular exercise into my routine, and made time for activities that brought me joy.
This change didn’t happen overnight, but gradually I started feeling better. My energy levels improved, I became more focused at work, and my relationships improved.
Now I know that prioritizing self-care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary. It’s about taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being so you can face life’s challenges with strength and resilience.
If you’re finding it hard to keep on going when life gets hard, take a step back and ask yourself if you’re taking care of yourself. Prioritize your well-being and see how it changes your capacity to cope with difficulties.
Final thoughts: It’s a journey, not a destination
Navigating through life’s storms is no easy feat. But remember, it’s often through these challenges that we grow and become stronger individuals.
So, as you navigate through life’s ups and downs, keep pushing forward. Remember these habits, adapt them to your life, and see how they transform your journey. And in the end, you’ll realize that it’s through the storms of life that we often find our true strength.
Related Stories from The Stoic Mindset
What would Marcus Aurelius say?
Unsure what to do next in your career? Struggling to move on from a failed relationship? Searching for more meaning in life?
Marcus Aurelius can tell you how to face your challenges in a more Stoic way.
Simply ask your question, and Marcus Aurelius will answer.