Mindset Needed to Persevere Through Adversity!
5 Move Better- Live Better tips about how to overcome your obstacles from professional dance coach LA Joey L. Dowdy
Hello all, I had the unique opportunity to do an article for Authority/Medium Magazine speaking about overcoming obstacles. It was a detailed and revealing interview with some topics that I’ve never talked about. It’s a “MUST READ!” Listed below are my 5 takeaways that appear at the end of the interview.
FYI, the full article is a bit lengthy so grab some popcorn, sit back and relax, then enjoy the read. Link here: Joey L Dowdy On How He Overcame Significant Adversity To Achieve Success | by Authority Magazine Editorial Staff | Authority Magazine | Sep, 2024 | Medium
Bonus feature: Please check out the live video for a shorter but spicier version. Enjoy and please send me your feedback.
Article Tips:
- Believe that all things work together for your good despite your setback.
Know that setbacks are there to teach you something valuable, so embrace the lessons they offer. For example, when I was recovering from hip surgery, I had to remind myself that the pain and challenges were temporary and part of a greater purpose. By believing that everything was working for my good, I stayed positive and open to learning what the experience had to teach me.
2. Focus on your capabilities (hopes & dreams), not your disabilities (mishaps, misfortunes).
Don’t concentrate on what you lack; instead, focus on what you do have. When I was dealing with my injury, I could have easily gotten bogged down by what I couldn’t do anymore. But instead, I chose to focus on the strengths and abilities I still had, knowing that they were enough to get me through.
3. Stay physically active and release those feel-good endorphins.
Physical activity has always been a way for me to keep my spirits up, even when things are tough. When I was unable to dance fully, I still made it a point to engage in whatever movement I could—whether it was stretching, light exercises, or even just hand gestures. Staying active helped me keep a positive mindset and release those natural endorphins that make you feel good.
4. Have a vision plan. Start with the end in mind!
Know what you want to accomplish and visualize the outcome. I’ve always practiced visualizing my goals—whether it’s regaining my full range of motion after surgery or achieving a new career milestone. I speak it, think it, see it, feel it, and ultimately, become it. This approach has helped me stay focused and motivated, even when the path was challenging.
5. Possess a daily spiritual practice.
I suggest starting with meditation, as it helps you connect to a place of peace within your mind, a place your body may not be able to go at the moment. During my toughest times, I found solace in meditation, prayer, and spiritual reflection. It gave me the inner strength and calm I needed to navigate adversity with grace and hope. You’ll also find this connection with my best online dance.
