Sometimes, life can feel like the carnival game you can never win. You practice your skill, you invest the cash, you stay in game until the last ring is tossed, and all you end up with is a stuffed banana with dreadlocks. (There may be a true story in there somewhere.)
After an experience like that, you may vow never to play carnival games again. I don’t blame you, who needs another stuffed banana with dreadlocks?
What if we pivot our thinking to believe there is opportunity in the setbacks of life? Tweet this
Setbacks present the opportunity to look at your goal from a different perspective. To take a different road to the same finish line, and to grow as an individual; Not only in experience but more importantly, in character.
One of my favorite quotes from Dallas Willard reminds us: It is not what you do, it’s who you become.
Here are 4 things to remember when you feel like giving up:
- Remember your original dream and your purpose for persevering.
- Remember that the pain of regret is always worse than the pain of waiting.
- Losing is not the same as quitting. NOW, is the time to play your best game.
- Thankfulness is the key to unlocking the hope you have lost. Think back along your journey. Give thanks for all the answered prayers that have happened along the way.
If you are feeling like life is a carnival game you can never win, it is time to turn things around. Put on some happy reggae tunes, slice some bananas and make yourself a banana cream pie!
I would love to hear your thoughts on, Sometimes, life can feel like the carnival ride you never win. Please don’t hesitate to share your stories or comments below.
If you found this blog helpful or encouraging, it would be the greatest complement to me if you shared it on your social networks. Thank you for helping build our community!
In life and leadership,
Angela
Angela Howard
June 22, 2015Thank you for the encouragement! I needed this reminder to remember my original dream and to keep focused.
Kristen Zuray
July 13, 2015Thank you for this and for your other blog on dreams- perfect timing. Someone very close to me told me this weekend to give up on my dreams and find new ones. Crushing! How do you give up on a dream that God planted when I was a teenager? I don’t understand God’s timing right now, but I’m not giving up on the dream! Thanks for the confirmation.
Angela L Craig
July 13, 2015Hi Kristen,
Thank you for sharing. I believe in you! Sometimes we have to reframe our dreams, but never give up! I will be praying that God will show you a new and exciting path to follow!