Addressing the Unexpected and Succeeding in 2012

The holidays are a wonderful opportunity to share quality time with family, count your blessings, reflect on the year you have had and contemplate what you hope to accomplish in the upcoming year.  A common phrase as Christmas decorations go up and holiday party invitations arrive, is "I can't believe it's already December!!"  Despite how fast time went for you, the holidays are here and the new year is just a couple weeks away.  Has 2011 brought about any major changes in your life that you didn't anticipate at this time last year?  How did you deal with these changes?  Having some skills to deal with life's unexpected situations, such as job loss, or a financial blunder, or perhaps a break up can make the situation much more manageable!  Here are some tips for learning to cope with the unexpected:

1) Take a deep breath! Taking time to breathe, collect your thoughts, and focus on the important aspects of the situation can help you to gain a clear perspective.  The key is not to panic.


2) As you relax, begin to prioritize what your next steps should be.  At this point decide on the things that need to be accomplished right away, and those that can wait.  Writing down your priorities or talking with someone you trust about your plan can also aid in gaining clarity and perspective. 

3) After carefully thinking about your given situation, begin to take action.  Sometimes unexpected situations provoke the urge to procrastinate.  Fight that urge and forge forward with your plan.  Address the most pressing issues first and this will likely help you gain motivation and momentum towards efficiently handling your next steps.  

4) This is the opportunity to become very honest with yourself.  You are human and we all deal with the unexpected.  Be honest with those you love and don't make excuses.

5) Asking for help is an essential aspect to successfully dealing with the unexpected.  Your family, friends, co-workers, or people in your network want to see you succeed and likely have suggestions, contacts, or encouraging words to help you move forward.  Think about the people that you would help out in a minute and seek them out.  If you are willing to help them...they will help you too! 

As 2012 approaches, I hope the year brings you happiness, health, and prosperity!  May the unexpected bring about exciting new adventures!  Think of the unexpected as the perfect time for new opportunities.  

If one advances confidently in the direction of one's dreams, and endeavors to live the life which one has imagined, one will meet with a success unexpected in common hours. --Henry David Thoreau