Are you having trouble getting back on your feet after a rough patch or a big mistake? Everyone's been there. No matter how level-headed, responsible, or wise someone may be, that person would never be able to honestly tell you that they've walked through life without a mess up, a disappointment, or some kind of rut. For me, my rough patch started when I moved away from home and started going to college. I was used to being in the top of my class and went from being one of the most "successful" students at my high school to being average and feeling like I didn't have a clue how to achieve anymore. This year, however, I decided it was time for my comeback and I took these few steps to help me get back on track and feel confident in myself again.
I learned from my mistakes.
It's not a bad idea to look back and recognize where you might have gone wrong, or what you can do better in the future. I realized that falling short in school came from my lack of time management. It was hard for me to say no to all the people I was suddenly surrounded by and I didn't make appropriate time for what I was there for- my school work. Maybe for you it's a past relationship that was toxic. Don't text your ex back like you normally would (please don't).
I tried not to beat myself up.
When you've made a mistake, it's really easy to tell yourself you're a failure and good for nothing. Messing up can be embarrassing and can send you into a spiral of self-hatred. It's not easy to build yourself up after a fall, I get it. But it helps. Look back at the person you used to be, the one you were proud of, and realize that you can most definitely be that person, or an even better version of that, again.
I set realistic goals.
It's hard to get somewhere if you don't know where you're going. It's important to set realistic goals for yourself so you don't get burnt out or disappointed too quickly. If you have to, set a major goal, but keep up with smaller "check points" along the way to keep you encouraged.
I had a support system.
You're never going to think much of yourself if you're surrounded by people that don't understand your goals or don't push you to be your best. Make sure your friends and family know what you're trying to accomplish and stick to your commitment to your goals even when they'd rather you do something else. People who really love you will stand beside you no matter what.
