Transform Dark Days into Opportunity The day that you find you are doubting yourself, take private time to consider why that is.

By Elinor Stutz

This story originally appeared on Personal Branding Blog

Shutterstock

Your reaction to particularly awful days can make or break future success. The better action to take is to remain as calm as possible. Take quiet time to analyze how far you have come. Think about the twists and turns, and what currently has you stopped in your tracks.

Numerous conversations revealed that many almost quit their current endeavors. But one common factor as to why they did not quit helped them to prevail: They enjoy what they do too much! Ironically, it has become their way of life.

As uncertainty hits, follow these two suggestions:

  1. Take the time needed to uncover the better route.
  2. Convert a negative frame of mind into a positive.

Reframe the situation

One sales technique referred to as "Reframing" applies very well to difficult situations. Whether personal or trying to work with a client, the first step is to figure out where the discontent originates. Upon recognizing the misstep, it becomes easier to work together to find the better solution. By asking a series of questions such as, "What if…" the improved path begins to reveal itself.

On the personal side, moving from negative to positive thought is the beginning step for improvement. The change in attitude makes an enormous difference in providing increased opportunity to save the day.

The day that you find you are doubting yourself, take private time to consider "the why" that is. Most likely, one of your peers will have had a similar experience. Have a conversation about how they dealt with it and ask for recommendations on how to handle. Their insights won't necessarily apply or even matter. It's more about the conversation itself. Just by unleashing the dilemma is all it takes to get back to full steam ahead. As others see you meeting negativity and obstacles head on, they come to admire your steadfast personal brand.

Tips:

  • When negativity hits, stop to examine the origin.
  • Decide whether changes need to be made.
  • Should changes be in order, decide whether they are minor or major.
  • Begin the process by eliminating the no longer needed.
  • Create a list of what needs to be fixed.
  • Prioritize the list in order of immediate need.
  • Re-energize yourself and/or business by communicating.
Elinor Stutz

CEO of Smooth Sale, Author & Inspirational Speaker

ELINOR STUTZ, CEO of Smooth Sale, delivers inspirational keynotes at conferences. She authored three books: the international bestseller Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results, HIRED! and The Wish: A 360 Business Development Process to Fuel Sales.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Business News

Here Are the 10 Highest-Paying Jobs with the Lowest Risk of Being Replaced By AI: 'Safest Jobs Right Now'

A new report from career resources platform Resume Genius finds the top 10 AI-proof careers expected to see the most growth within the next decade.

Business Ideas

70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2025.

Science & Technology

How AI Can Free Up Your Time For Less Busywork and More Innovation

If there's one trait every founder needs, it's a willingness to experiment. Today, experimentation is easier and more accessible than ever thanks to AI.

Science & Technology

How I Went From Side Hustle to 7 Figures Using These 4 AI Tools (No Tech Skills Needed)

Scale faster, work less and grow a 7-figure business — no team needed.

Making a Change

Learn Up to 56 Languages for Just $35

Get lifetime access to the platform that turns language learning into a game.

Health & Wellness

How Mastering Your Nervous System Boosts Leadership Presence and Performance

Discover a modern leadership system designed to boost your effectiveness, reduce stress and bring more clarity and joy to how you lead.