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one's attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one's own way."

Attitude. A choice in how to think about one's situation. The German philosopher Nietzsche's words express it well, "He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how." Frankl continues in his book with "Fundamentally, therefore, any man can, even under such circumstances, decide what shall become of him - mentally and spiritually. He may retain his human dignity even in a concentration camp."

Faith. A belief in one's future, in a better world, or as Paul so eloquently wrote in Hebrews 11:1, "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." One of the best examples of faith in overcoming life's setbacks is the Twelve Step Program, initiated by Alcoholics Anonymous and now used by many support groups to deal with compulsions and addictions that lead to life's setbacks. It has lead to modern psychology adopting its techniques into what is known as the Recovery Model. A good summary of the 12 STEPS is: admitting that one cannot control one's addiction or compulsion; recognizing a spiritual higher power that can give strength; examining past errors with the help of a sponsor (experienced member); making amends for these errors; learning to live a new life with a new code of behavior; helping others that suffer from the same addictions or compulsions. In place of the word addiction or compulsion, substitute your setback (death of a loved one, disease, etc.). This program has many applications.

Recovery. Recovery can be seen as a personal journey requiring hope, a secure base, supportive relationships, empowerment, social inclusion, coping skills, and finding meaning. A necessary element in dealing with a major life setback is recovery, regaining self-control and self-meaning. (Information on 12 Steps and Recovery Model from Wikipedia)

New goal setting. Setting goals for the future is another of the key's to overcoming setbacks for they are important in giving one's life a purpose or meaning. To be able to set new goals, a vision for what success or accomplishment means to you must be developed. An old anonymous saying sums it up, "If at first you don't succeed, redefine success". For " Failure teaches you how not to do things." (Anonymous) Dedicating yourself to pursuits that you find worthy, that add value to your life or someone else, raise you from the rubble of your disappointment. Helen Keller, blind and deaf as a child, overcame her personal setbacks

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