Life can be full of eventualities; many unplanned for that could take a toll on whatever plans or arrangements one would have had. Setbacks are a clear definition of such occurrences. Such that what a plans happen to go the other way or have an unexpected turnout from what was hoped or intended. Even if it comes to be, it would have happened later than the expected time or period, which sometimes could be considered useless or less useful. It can be a difficult time with setbacks, and an unpleasing experience altogether.
Setbacks could be in the form of delays, obstacles, disadvantaged situations/conditions, and all of these forms. These occurrences could rise amidst all fruitful expectations of the individual, leading to what would be called a setback. Say, you planned going for a function, event, work or whatsoever at a certain time, then the eventuality of transportation sets in. As a result, the individual gets late. Now that's a common case of a setback. Even with these occurrences, with right efforts and strategies, the issue of setback should be addressed in some way.
One of such strategies that will be helpful is breaking down a problem into parts that can be manageable. Many times, setbacks come because we try to manage or deal with a lot of tasks and duties altogether. An ideal I firmly affirm with is the character of setting or putting tasks into little portions and chopping them up in that same manner; opposed to trying to do a lot at the same time. Multitasking and doing a lot at a time can be the reason why many setbacks come around; the tasks seem to become overwhelming and then one draws back.
How about seeing setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow? If setbacks are seen as setbacks alone and nothing more, they'll be just that. But with each setback or failure should be an enlightenment, a lesson, an opportunity to know better and do better. Having such a mindset can be a powerful tool against setbacks. Focus should also be on being progressive rather than perfect. The opposite is what draws many back. With progress, perfection can be achieved but the other way round will be a lose lose situation.
Importantly, there should also be that character to seek support of others. It's very vital to address the issue of setbacks. We can't do it all. Interacting with others and seeking their support can provide valuable insight and foresight over a future occurrence. What was the cause of some setbacks they experienced could be learnt and then properly prepared for, right before they come to be. When they come around, then they are tackled in that fashion of what had been learnt from the support of others. That would be a helpful way out.
While setbacks can be totally overwhelming and annoying, they can set one on the trajectory of new discoveries, experiences and opportunities. If only it won't be seen as a negative occurrence, one could find that it provides the opportunity to grow, to build stamina and a resilient mindset, as well as setting new perspectives. Viewing it in this way will help in the long run to address and overcome setbacks when they show up, and not just let them weigh one down.
This is my entry for the Hive Naija weekly prompt 95.
Images are mine except where stated otherwise.