Athletes possess a unique set of skills that enable them to physically and mentally push themselves beyond the normal limits of endurance. They are able to set goals and singularly focus on attaining those goals. They have trained their minds and bodies to push through doubt, pain, and fatigue. Athletes refuse to accept limits and failure. When they face obstacles they draw from their internal reserves to meet and overcome the challenge.

Now, think of a problem in your life. Focus on the challenge. Once you have developed a solution, set your sights on implementation. If you run up against an obstacle, use the determination of an athlete to keep pushing forward. Commit to your accomplishment by eliminating failure as an option. Be stubborn, be flexible, and be tireless. You will cross the finish line!

Perceived flaws and weaknesses should be welcomed and celebrated. They make us human and unique. It is our faults that draw people to us and that make us reach out to others. In a field of perfect daisies, aren’t you more likely to notice the weed? Aren’t you more likely to feel compassion and empathy for those with shortcomings than you are for those full of achievement? Perfection in all things is unattainable. Accept that being less than perfect is the norm. Your flaws bind you to the rest of us in our pursuit to be the best we can be.

Now, take a moment to look around you and take note of all the imperfections that surround you. Perhaps it is the messy drawing done by your child that you proudly posted on the refrigerator. Maybe it is a family member that continues to make mistakes, but always learns from them. Think about how you cherish and appreciate these things and people despite their flaws. Would you change them? You too are imperfect. Accept what you perceive as flaws and limitations. They make you who you are. Embrace your imperfections today!

It is appropriate to describe life’s problems and challenges as waves crashing over our heads and burying us under their weight. When we are drowning under misfortune, we often ask “why me?” or “why now?” While it may be instinct to fight against these waves in an attempt to overpower them, this is not the only option. In order to survive life’s churning ocean, we must be at peace with the inevitability of the waves.

Instead of expending physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual energy raging against the obstacles you face, it is far better to roll with the changes. By doing so, you can channel your energy toward adjusting your outlook, reworking your plans, and changing your perception. It may be that the waves carry you in a different, better direction. Perhaps the waves will cause you to reaffirm your dedication to your goals. Waves, as life’s challenges, are going to continue to crest and break. Do we exhaustively fight against what cannot be controlled, or do we float on the currents?

Now, think about how you can stop questioning and resisting life’s changes. Decide to accept what has happened and focus on making peace with your new reality. If you have been moved off course, map a new plan to still reach your goal. If you have been exhausted by your efforts, take the time to heal then look ahead. It is necessary in life to navigate some rough waters. There is no reason to sink underneath the pressure. You can swim and float today!