Finding Respect in the Chaos

Written by Amanda Carmichael

Adversity is inevitable, but how we respond to it shapes our life.

Whether we like it or not, adversity is part of life. We can overcome our difficulties, but the most significant factor which will determine our recovery process is the demonstration of resilience. We each possess an innate drive to overcome and get through challenging times and experiences. This enables us to bounce back and recover from the worst of situations.

Anyone who has ever achieved something worthwhile has had challenges and setbacks – because anything that is worth doing is going to be difficult. Overcoming adversity is a necessary step on the road to greatness.

There are so many inspiring stories in our publications of people who overcame seemingly insurmountable odds. They triumphed over their adversities to live successful, productive lives instead of surrendering to pain or disappointment.

There’s a powerful expression, “Hurt people hurt people.” Truer words have never been spoken. When we’re hurt, wounded, distraught, overly-reactive, or emotionally dysfunctional in any way, we’re not in a position to make the positive impact we long to, or to inspire people at the highest level. Why? Because our open wounds get in the way. Our wounds change how we see ourselves and others, and how we relate to, experience, and interact with the world. The wounds we experience color everything. Knocking someone else down most certainly does not lift us up either. It instead knocks us down further.

People who inspire us to be better are not weak, scared, or stuck. They’re bold and have the fortitude and courage to push through their fears, and take a stand on what they believe. They’ve accomplished what I call “brave up.” These inspirational people

have faced great odds and challenges, and they’ve “turned their mess into a message” to help others overcome their challenges too. They’re warriors and courageous fighters for what they believe in and how they see themselves and the world.

My greatest dream is to help others improve their lives. I believe that all my hard work and efforts pay off and that when I do my small part, I make a significant difference. I love nothing more than receiving a message from someone who shares that I’ve helped change their life. I’m not driven by either fame or money. I simply appreciate the acknowledgment and recognition for my work and expertise. We can each change the world simply by helping those around us who need our help.

From the deepest fiber of my being, that is what inspires me and drives me on. I want my life to count! I want to make a difference impacting lives for the better. My efforts will create the legacy I want to leave, ensuring that I do not leave this world with my message still inside of me.

This inner longing to have significance is inside of everyone. It may be buried under fears, but it is there. We should all be inspired and driven to create a lasting, wonderful legacy where we reach our full potential and help others reach theirs! When we face obstacles and problems, we need to be determined and resilient.

Looking at success stories can help us learn how to overcome adversity – but we must also look at those around us. The quality of a person’s life is most often a direct reflection of the expectations of their peer group. You are who you hang out with. And if you want to bounce back from challenges, live optimistically, and stay focused, you need to surround yourself with people who support you – not people who pull you down or hold you back.

Never give up. Stay kind. Show grace. Use what you have learned to help others, and surround yourself with people that like to celebrate victories.

Sincerely,

Amanda Carmichael, Corpus Christi Real Producers Magazine Publisher