I have long been a believer in the idea that we are better people for the challenges we've had, that experience is what you get when you don't get what you want, and "that which doesn't kill us makes us stronger." (Nietsche) I'm sure I grew to feel this way because of my own difficulties growing up both as a way to stay inspired and motivated but also because I knew it to be true.

Think about it...when you've had a difficult situation or problem that you've had to figure out or find your way through, you most likely came out on the other side knowing what you were made of and a little bit smarter and savvier. The next time you faced a similar problem, you knew what to do, how to handle it, where to look for solutions, what questions to ask. You were better able to keep your cool, handle the pressure and think on your feet. And you were more confident in yourself and your abilities to make it through the challenge.

This is not to say that those who have struggled and perservered are made of steel. One of my favorite quotes about courage says, "Courage is not the lack of fear. It is acting in spite of it." (Mark Twain) As I recently told a friend who told me he thought I had it all together, meaning I take on life with no fear, I have a lot of people fooled into thinking that I am not afraid by the courage I somehow manage to show the world. That makes me feel good, to know that the courage is what shows through...and my struggles are probably a big part of what make that possible.

The point in all of this is merely to keep hope when you are going through tough times, whether in your personal or professional life. There is an end in sight and a gift in the difficulties you experience. Look for the hidden gifts and opportunities in every situation. Be courageous in dealing with your fears and the unknown. And most of all, be persistent in making your own way in life and the world.

“Fall seven times, stand up eight.”

—Japanese Proverb