Overcoming Adversity
Have you ever felt like ‘one of those days’ has rolled into ‘one of those weeks, months or years?
When you’re growing a business one thing is certain: you’re going to fail from time to time: it’s an inevitable part of living that we make mistakes and occasionally fall flat on our faces. The ‘in the bag’ deal fell through, a client wants to end the working relationship, the ‘big launch’ didn’t go as planned.

And sometimes the challenge we face is from outside of the business: the ending of a marriage; serious illness in the family, burglary or even your house burning down! (I’ve faced some of these myself and friends and clients have experienced some of these recently too).
Whether in business or life, experiences like these can seriously test your faith and your ability to keep moving forward.
So how do you keep going when you feel that life has brought you to your knees?
If you can relate, this video training is a from the heart message to you on how to bounce back after a serious setback.
In this video I share with you how I’ve kept going during tough times, even when it felt like I was experiencing one setback after another. I’m not gonna say I’ve got all the answers, just from the heart advice on what has helped me, including:
- What I learned from Richard Branson about dealing with adversity
- The first thing you MUST do when dealing with an unexpected setback (this is counter intuitive)
- My personal strategy that keeps me going even when the situation feels impossible
Even if you’re not facing any challenges right now, this video will give you practical advice and better equip you for facing an uncertain future. Watch it now!
I’d love to her what you think about this too. Leave a comment below, many thanks.

I so needed this today. You are amazing and thank you for your very welcome direction.
Hi Lily – so glad this reached you at the right time – here’s a big hug from me and keep the faith x
Great video again Bernadette, thank you. I particularly like tip number 2 as it is all too easy to blame others or the situation for things going wrong. Acceptance of what is, although sometimes difficult to do, is what helps to move out of the rut.
You’re so right Susan – not always easy to do, but it is the key to moving forward at times like these
Sage advice, as always, Bernadette. I’d add a 6th: Be willing to accept help & share what you’re going through. I find that especially us women entrepreneurs are often ashamed to share our struggles. We fear condemnation or ridicule, so we try to suck it up and not burden anyone with our own issues.
The truth is no one can lend a hand if they don’t know you welcome their contribution. There is power in vulnerability. Help might be available right under your nose, if you just open up and tell someone what your struggle is. Conversely, you never know what adversity someone else is going through right now. Every triumph is preceded by a story of struggle. But we don’t have to struggle alone!
Hi Veera, when I was driving home after filming this last weekend, I thought this too – it would have been great to say something about ‘letting yourself be supported’. At difficult times in my own life the love and support I’ve received, even sometimes from people who don’t know me that well, has given me the strength to carry on. Thanks so much for adding your wisdom x
It’s a great opportunity to stop taking any BS from anyone – If they have a problem it is THEIR problem – let THEM deal with it. – it’s not worth it – focus on what is important to you NOW and don’t worry about anything else.
Most deadlines are false and can be missed without anyone dying. Take this opportunity to re-frame your life to how you want to live it and set your own parameters that you will meet.
So true. At times like these you really find out who your friends are. I love your comment! Thanks for the wise advice 🙂
Very well said, Veera!
40 plus years…..come on
Thank you Bernadette. My favorite piece of advise from your list…..determine what’s really important. The Branson example was perfect. My clients are often job seekers and that can be a tough time of life. Thank you for your kind and wise words.
This was a wonderful lesson. All of it was right on. When things happen, our first instinct is to ball up in the corner and try to hide. These tips will help a lot of people stand up and move forward. I’ve been there, done that, and bought the t-shirt. These tips work.
Brilliant video Bernadette and fab timing – its reminded me of everything I know works plus I am running a residential this week and today we are doing overcoming obstacles – your wisdom will be shared.
Love Loisxx
Love the dancin!
I loved your video Bernadette – I had to focus on self care today. I am recovering from keyhole surgery on my knee. I felt good walking around the house and was feeling excited about walking better.. so decided to go for a small walk….o boy it was smaller than anticipated!!! I was quite taken aback at what a small distance I could walk when outside home and I felt quite vulnerable!! When I returned home I tapped and cleared the energy. I had plans to focus on my business this afternoon…but what was more important was to allow myself to rest and heal more.The hidden blessing is that I now have a better understanding of how an operation can impact on mind, body and spirit….and yes I can see myself sharing this on some level with clients in the future!
At times we can put so much pressure on ourselves to do things which we are not ready to do….learning to accept reality is key. The more we resist a situation the more it depletes us of our energy. Learning to surrender to what is…..is essential, otherwise we create unnecessary stress in our system.
Yes “This too shall pass” and for now I am taking one day at a time before I attempt my next walk:outside my home:-)
You’re probably true, but in my case, it takes a very long breath. I am suffering from ME, fybromyalgia and thyroid problems for over twenty years now. Lost my health, my income, my friends, and most of my family. I am blessed with twins (boy and girl), both are dyslectic and my son has also adhd. It’s so frustrating that I don’t have the energy to help him the way he needs, homework and schoolmatters (talking to teachers to smooth things) is a daily struggle. There probably is a silver lining, but most of the time I can’t see it.
Thank you-wise advice
I needed this today. I’m having a down day and just trying to keep my head on straight after generating far too much work, having the kids get sick and then getting sick myself. Taking that step to ask for help is always the hardest but your video has inspired me to finally send off the email to look for students to help out because lack of help the root of my current business problem. Thank-you Bernadette and team!
Hi Bernadette
I love you tips on overcoming adversity and set backs.
This is the type of message so many women need to be hearing on a daily bases.
I’m hosting an event and would really love for you to be part of it.
I hope to hear from you soon.
Victoria