Surviving the Storm – #9
"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass... It's about learning to dance in the rain." – Vivian Greene
The season of celebration is finally here—a time for gathering with family and friends, for pausing our busy schedules to take a breath, and for reflecting on the successes of the past year.
But let’s face it: not everyone feels holly and jolly during this time of year.
Just like death and taxes, storms (challenges) in life are inevitable.
These storms often roll in without warning, leaving us scrambling for shelter. We don’t know how long they’ll last, how intense they’ll be, or how much they’ll change us. But one thing is certain: every storm is temporary—even when it feels like it might never end.
Some storms are loud and visible—job losses, health challenges, heartbreaks. Others are quieter, internal battles fought in silence. And often, we have no idea who around us might be weathering one.
Battling the Storm
When you're caught in a storm, it can feel overwhelming, disorienting, and endless. But here are a few lessons I’ve learned from weathering my own storms:
Keep Moving Forward: Did you know that buffaloes turn toward a storm and charge through it, shortening the time they spend in bad weather? Let’s be more like the buffalo: face challenges head-on. It’s easy to feel paralyzed, but progress—not perfection—is what matters. Just keep moving.
Lean on Your Support Network: Cue the lyrics from “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers. You likely have more people in your corner than you realize. Don’t hesitate to lean on them when you need to.
Know That Storms Always Pass: When you’re in the thick of it, it’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. But remember, no storm lasts forever. Better days are ahead.
Be the Lighthouse for Others
We all know what it’s like to face hard times, and that gives us the ability—and responsibility—to be a source of light for others. Don’t overthink it; just show up and care:
Check In: A simple “How are you doing?” can mean the world.
Be Present: You don’t need to have all the answers. Sometimes, just listening is enough.
Offer Grace: People going through storms might not be at their best. Be patient, kind, and understanding.
Final Thoughts
No one walks through life untouched. Challenges test us, refine us, and, ultimately, reveal what we’re made of. If you’re in a storm right now, keep going. You’re stronger than you think. And if you’re in calm waters, be a lighthouse for those who need guidance.
Additional Resources and Thoughts
Book: The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday – Buy here
Podcast: The Knowledge Project with Shane Parrish – Episode with Adam Karr: "How to Think (and Work) Like a Billion-Dollar Investor" – Listen here
Stoicism of the Day: "Success comes to the lowly and to the poorly talented, but the special characteristic of a great person is to triumph over the disasters and panics of human life." – Seneca
There is no skill in being oblivious but lucky. Wouldn’t you rather prove your worth through continued perseverance?