10 Tips on Overcoming Adversities

10 Tips on Overcoming Adversities

Inspiration Hub , Personal Growth
Entering university is a significant milestone for most students. You may feel excited towards your new experiences; yet setbacks or adversities may also come unexpectedly. For example, having conflicts with roommates, working on a group project with a free-rider or struggling with studies and internship. In facing life’s challenges, some may grow even stronger while some may be defeated.

So how can we surmount adversities and benefit from the experience? Below are “10 Tips on Overcoming Adversities”:

Turn Adversities into Challenges

Although we can’t change what has happened, maybe we can regard difficulties as challenges which can be overcome and we might become stronger by learning from the experience.

Accept Changes 

Life is inevitably full of ups and downs, trials and tribulations.  Living with changes being part of our lives and focus on those factors that we can actively change. 

Setbacks or adversities may also come unexpectedly during your university life.
Setbacks or adversities may also come unexpectedly during your university life.

Think Rationally

Pause when we are obsessed with negative and extreme thoughts and emotions. Reconsider the issues from an objective point of view and avoid making decisions when emotions seem overwhelming.

Seek Solutions

Explore alternatives and solutions that are realistic and achievable. Ask ourselves “What can I do to reach my goals in a reasonable timeframe?”

Act Now

Procrastination and ruminative thoughts might make us dwell on the problem, instead of resolving it. While we might not be able to eradicate procrastination and rumination, let’s try to take some concrete actions to cope with the difficulties.

Stay Healthy

Take good care of our physical and emotional needs. To strengthen our resilience against adversities, maintain a balanced lifestyle and engage in activities that can make us feel happy and relaxed.

Engaging in activities that can make you feel happy and relaxed.
Engaging in activities that can make you feel happy and relaxed.

Grow strong

Although adversities cause distress, they also offer opportunities for self-discovery and personal growth. As we strive to overcome challenges, with efforts, we may learn important lessons about life and grow as a result of the struggle.

Practise Self-confidence

Build self-confidence and resilience by developing problem-solving skills and appreciating your effort at active coping.

Seek Support

Families and friends are always your most reliable support in times of adversity. Thus, it is important to strengthen our support system by cultivating trusting relationships with our loved ones.

Be Hopeful

Stay hopeful and optimistic. A positive attitude empowers you to face difficulties and search for resolutions.

Families and friends are always your most reliable support in times of adversity.
Families and friends are always your most reliable support in times of adversity.

For those who are caught in the midst of a storm, the tips above may help you get through safely; for those who are enjoying sunny weather, get prepared for rainy days by developing resilience and strengthening your social networks. 

Counsellors from Wellness and Counselling Centre (WACC) are also ready to accompany you as you overcome hurdles and brave stormy weather. You can make an appointment with a WACC Counsellor, you can CLICK HERE or call 3943 3493 / 3943 7208 during office hour.  If you need counselling service during non-office hours, please call the CUHK 24-hour Emotional Support Hotline at 5400 2055, or seek help from other Counselling Hotlines / Online Counselling Services. 

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