Facing Challenges

Editor’s Note: Danielle is an intuitive genius when it comes to business and life. Check out her wonderful guest article on facing challenges and a quick exercise to identify tools you can use to overcome challenges.

By Danielle LaPorte

When I got fired from my own company, I cried myself to sleep and got up the next morning and did crazy Kundalini yoga in my living room to the Red Hot Chilli Peppers. Soul, soothed.

When my marriage hit the snowbank, I knew just the poetry book to read obsessively, the right astrologer to call, and that Green Smoothies were better than the pack of Marlboro’s I craved.

When I had a book deal in jeopardy, I knew just the person to call to give me straight up strategic counsel, and that if I dropped everything that afternoon and went to my favorite beach, the right answer would come to me.

Life throws you a curve ball…. Your dog dies… The relationship isn’t working and you can’t deny it… You got canned…. A surprise diagnosis… The tough meeting that it’s time to have… These are all things that you can handle.

You can rise to the occasion after you remember what you’re made of — but you need those reminders.

The thing about being afraid or in crisis mode is that we can get so spun out that we forget where the emergency exit or the rip-cord is. Where’s your bridge over troubled water? Who ya gonna call? How do you spell relief? Lunch with your best friend, a visit to church, a call with your mastermind group, a few laps in the pool, silence?

KNOW YOUR “COMFORTING” ZONE

Make a list of your soul vitamins so you can mentally, or literally, refer to it when the going gets rougher than tough. This will serve as your go-to list, your secret stash of pick-me-up’s, your 911 Life Operator.

Answer these questions for yourself — now — before the curve ball hits.

1. INSTANT AWESOME FEEL GOODS: “When I do the following, I am guaranteed to feel close to 100 percent improved, lighter, and focused…”

2. MODERATELY HELPFUL: “When I do the following, I will likely feel a sense of relief or improvement…”

As for downing a carton of cookie dough ice cream, drunk-dialing your former flame, sneaking a smoke in the airplane bathroom, watching Gene Simmons Family Jewels reruns instead of going to yoga class, and all manners of vengeful vandalism . . . let’s put that “comfort list” in its place. Answer this for yourself:

3. TEMPTING, BUT NO. REALLY…NO.: “Even though I might think that doing the following things will bring me relief and comfort, they actually aren’t helpful at all…”

So much of being resilient is about having good emotional reserves. You just need to remember what fills you up when you need it the most.

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Editor’s Note:

danielle laport book When it comes to business advice, one of the few people I trust and learn from is Danielle LaPorte. She is an intuitive genius and (to me) the goddess of prosperity.

Danielle did to my business like what Eckhart Tolle did to my soul. And that’s a big statement.

Last year, I did a one-on-one consulting session with her, and it marked a pivotal point in my business’ growth. The clarity and confidence I gained from that experience allowed my business to grow twenty-fold. I am deeply thankful to her.

Her new book—The Fire Starter Sessions—is just divine. It’s not your typical self-help book. Not only is it beautifully designed (Make sure to get a physical copy instead of kindle to get the full experience), it is immensely practical, action-able and inspiring.

Whether you are an entrepreneur or not, you will find incredible value and juicy ideas all throughout it. And if that’s not enough, the book is based on a digital product that used to sell for $150 but is no longer available. The book will ignite you into action, and before you know it, your life will be changed for the better. Be sure to get a copy here. Really.

Before you go: please Like this article on Facebook and RT on twitter. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

About the Author:

Danielle LaPorte is the author of the forthcoming book The Fire Starter Sessions: A Soulful + Practical Guide for Creating Success on Your Own Terms (from Random House/Crown). An inspirational speaker, former think tank exec and business strategist. Over a million visitors have gone for her straight-up advice on DanielleLaPorte.com. Based in Vancouver, BC, you can find her on Facebook and on Twitter @daniellelaporte

Comments

Ben

Apr 08 12, 5:48 pm PDT

1
Thanks Danielle :)

I have found after getting over the emotions around the challenge alot of them turn out to be positive turns in my life.

The thing that relaxes me the most is using Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) on what is stressing me in that moment.

I also usually combine it with some chill out music, Enigma, Amethystium, Delerium and whatever else I can find. I just tend to get in the zone and feel much more peaceful.

I’ve had to work on finding this healthy way to do it instead of reaching for food or whatever.. and i’ve made a massive improvement since doing so!

-Ben
Anne

Apr 08 12, 7:09 pm PDT

2
Hiking and spending time outdoors puts me in my comfort zone…
Anne

Apr 08 12, 7:14 pm PDT

3
Hiking and spending time outdoors is my comfort zone!
Dennis @ SelfHelpUrls

Apr 08 12, 7:52 pm PDT

4
Thank you for the tips! :)

Let me answer the question, “What activity puts you in your comfort zone?”

Grab my DSLR and out for street photography – probably will be a day activity. When I see those beautiful shots, I feel AWESOME! Not only that, I will end my day with a positive thought and say, “Today I did something great and I feel AWESOME!”

Cheers,
Dennis.

P/S: Thanks for giving away a copy of this awesome book and congrats on your book launch, Danielle – all the best! =)
Hope
Apr 08 12, 9:27 pm PDT

5
Hi :]
been following think simple now for a while.i like how real the contributors are, people who know and understand what it is like to go through the highs and lows of life. and how they share from within them.

well what puts my in my “happy/comfort” zone is getting/giving a tight hug! really warm and fuzzy. can’t see how someone can do this and not feel 100% better.
Tazi
Apr 09 12, 4:38 am PDT

6
Playing in a soccer game really puts me in my comfort/happy zone where I can just completely forget about everything else and my mind turns off to all the negative internal thoughts I may be having. But as soccer isn’t something always available my backup is making something – either origami or ceramics.
Nancy
Apr 09 12, 4:54 am PDT

7
This came to my inbox at the perfect time. My position at work was eliminated with my last day being this past Friday. I am in the process of figuring out what it is that I want to do next and was issued a challenge by a friend of mine to take this week to do nothing, and anything that fills me up and nurtures me…..no lists, no meetings, no schedule. The thought of this makes me nervous and yet excited to see what will come of the week!
Your questions came to me at the perfect time. I may not have answered them before the curve ball hit me but the answers will help me remember what I am made of and what I need.
Thank you!
Pam
Apr 09 12, 5:18 am PDT

8
Needed to read a positive upbeat article this morning. Would love to have the book. Spending quiet time with myself or my husband is always healing for me.
Pam
naresh

Apr 09 12, 6:09 am PDT

9
intresting article.thank u for sharing
Polly
Apr 09 12, 6:48 am PDT

10
A comfort zone for me can be found in doing something out of the comfort zone: Middle of the week, forget the “to do” list for the day, drop the kids of at school, grab a couple girlfriends and go sit on the beach for a couple hours. And come to peace with knowing I deserve it.
Regina
Apr 09 12, 6:59 am PDT

11
Running! As soon I start running, as unappealing it may be sometimes, it makes me feel good right away! Plus, running moderately is great for your health!
K
Apr 09 12, 8:18 am PDT

12
one item that is an instant feel good for me – reading a book or an article that responds to a question that I’m looking to answer. I also like to remind myself of my ultimate goals. It takes me out of the here and now.
LoB
Apr 09 12, 8:47 am PDT

13
thanks! excellent article!
Vicki
Apr 09 12, 8:50 am PDT

14
Anytime I can talk over whatever is stressing me out with my husband, I almost always feel better. And it’s not because he can solve my problems but because he is so good at helping me gain perspective without judging. We always end up laughing and appreciating our relationship and life together, that’s what it’s all about anyway.
jenny

Apr 09 12, 9:06 am PDT

15
instant feel good: not sure i have a definite one. must fix that!
Deevs

Apr 09 12, 9:11 am PDT

16
I find writing very therapeautic – I’ve always kept a journal (since my teen years) and last year started a blog to write about the life-altering journey I’ve embarked on. Putting my thoughts, worries and the ‘stuff’ I’m going through down in words, just helps clear my mind.
Ava
Apr 09 12, 9:26 am PDT

17
whenever i find my life momentarily turned upside down, i often find myself cleaning up my diet. i don’t know why, but my natural instinct is to cut out sugar, cut out dairy, eat clean and whole foods. i’ve never really thought about it, but i suppose this is part of my ‘comfort zone’: a drive to balance out my emotional upset by getting back to simple foods. this article got me thinking!
Raveen Saluja
Apr 09 12, 9:27 am PDT

18
Thank you for your thoughts on resilience. I resort to nature walks to get clear on my committments and the journey. I call a friend who reminds me who I am for people and that the journey can be fun. Love, Raveen
Balqiz

Apr 09 12, 9:28 am PDT

19
I would like to have a copy of that awesome book!
Tracy
Apr 09 12, 9:30 am PDT

20
What puts me in my “comfort zone” taking a walk on the beach. Listening to the waves crash against the shore. Feeling the sand between my toes. Then just sitting down and watching the waves roll in – it is so peaceful.
Joe Taheri

Apr 09 12, 9:35 am PDT

21
interesting article.. excellent advice too, i appreciate guidance that prompts and prods you in the right direction rather than presuming to be predictive!
Lisa
Apr 09 12, 9:38 am PDT

22
Without sounding like a dandy, one of the things that puts me in my comfort zone is Ms. La Porte! Her sound, kick-ass, no nonsense advise pulls me out of the trenches and back on course followed by sitting down, closing my eyes and letting my soul work it’s Universal magical powers to put it in perspective.

xo, Lisa
Kelly Price

Apr 09 12, 9:45 am PDT

23
When all the options and emotions are swirling around just sitting down and getting it out on paper is an amazing release valve for me. After a few pages I literally feel a hundred pounds lighter. I am able to think more clearly and act more intentionally. And when the journaling is followed by some delicious silence where I listen into my own intuition – look out!
Liz
Apr 09 12, 9:47 am PDT

24
Roller skating (although its starting to be most physical activities) puts me in my comfort zone. As soon as I strap those wheels on my feet and take off, its hard not to smile.

Super excited for the release of Danielle’s book – I already preordered it for my Nook, but would love to win one of the giveaway copies so I can share as needed with friends & family :)
melissa

Apr 09 12, 10:33 am PDT

25
thank you for this generous and exquisite offering. love danielle’s wholehearted wisdom. comfort zone: ocean gazing.
Patti
Apr 09 12, 11:49 am PDT

26
Always go back to the simple things – take a walk, turn on music, play the piano. Focus on a small item and refresh and reorganize.
Amy
Apr 09 12, 12:11 pm PDT

27
Love this. Often in stressful times, I zone out in front of the tv or something and its not until hours later that I realize “oh, i should have gone for a WALK! that always makes me feel at least a little better right away instead of zoning out.”. Will make my list now :)
Karen

Apr 09 12, 12:19 pm PDT

28
…the beach/ocean or any bit of nature where I can be alone or just me and my sweet husband. :) This book sounds interesting…
Leslie
Apr 09 12, 12:24 pm PDT

29
Sitting quietly outside helps me. I just sit and watch the birds, butterflies and plants swaying in the breeze. It always has a calming affect on me.
Jodie
Apr 09 12, 1:31 pm PDT

30
Taking a nap is my comfort zone.
Kaitlin

Apr 09 12, 1:54 pm PDT

31
Great tips! The book sounds like a great read, count me in, I’d love to win!
Shyam Sundararaman
Apr 09 12, 2:23 pm PDT

32
Running, Writing and catching up on unread posts on my RSS reader are the three activities that put me in my comfort zone.
Allegra
Apr 09 12, 4:50 pm PDT

33
Diving into a good book helps soothe my worried mind….
Judy Ferrari
Apr 09 12, 5:19 pm PDT

34
What activity puts you in your comfort zone?
My “instant awesome feel goods:
Reading always soothes my soul, but sometimes, when I really need to get away from what is happening on my life, all I need to do is ask a friend to lend me a book. While reading it, I also think about her/his reason not only for giving me that specific book, but also their personal reason to buy it on the first place. Yes, I know, I’m just diverting attention, but sometimes, all I (and you, too) need is exactly that: time. Pardon my grammar, obviously English is my second language. :D
Olivia Chu
Apr 09 12, 5:32 pm PDT

35
Awesome article!

When I need to get into a comfort zone after something’s bad happened I normally allow myself a weekend of guilt free video gaming. I LOVE video games, of all types so much, but I don’t play often or at all because I have the mindset that I need to work hard and develop some awesome skills before I can really play.
Kim
Apr 09 12, 6:28 pm PDT

36
Thanks for this awesome post! I tend towards watching tv and eating junk in stressful times, but am working to change these habits!

My No. 1 way of getting back into my comfort zone is to sit comfortably somewhere with a good view of the sky and watch the clouds. It is difficult to get caught up in my own minor issues when trying to follow the complexities of those ever-changing forms!
Kim
Apr 09 12, 6:50 pm PDT

37
Thanks for the great post! I usually find myself watching tv and eating junk in stressful times, but I am working on that!

The one thing that really helps put me back in my comfort zone is sitting comfortably somewhere with a good view of the sky and watching the clouds. It is hard to be stressed about my minor issues while following the complexities of their ever-changing forms!
Bonnie

Apr 09 12, 7:48 pm PDT

38
Unknowingly, my Pinterest boards have become my comforting zone. Someone recently asked how and why I use Pinterest. After re-arranging my boards, I realized that the images I pin there represent my vision, my true self, things I love, things I have, things that I want to attract into my life. It’s my modernist self, my vintage self, my steampunk self, my present self. It’s the photos I wish I took, the photos I hope to take in the future. There’s no complaining about the wrongs in the world on my boards. Just sharing of the things I believe are beautiful in the world – inside and out.

Thank you Danielle and Tina for this post. A great reminder about comforting zones that inspire and re-energize.
Justine Thompson
Apr 09 12, 9:37 pm PDT

39
When I get caught in the chaotic whirlwind of life, i find myself cleaning and organizing. It may sound strange, but it is soothing. Putting all the little pieces back in their place helps restores my balance.
Adity
Apr 09 12, 10:04 pm PDT

40
Thanks Danielle for another wonderful writing.

I love dancing- dancing on my upbeat music puts me in my best clear mind zone…I love that feeling– nothing is blocked-everything is clear…
Marvin

Apr 09 12, 10:21 pm PDT

41
Danielle, thanks so much for the insightful tips on finding our “comforting zone”. I saw you at WDS last year, and what a transformational presentation on how we must put more time in planning how we should feel in our life, and then align our goals to that.

What I do that makes me feel comfortable is just going out for a run for an hour. It’s a meditative act that clears my mind, and opens up the imagination center of my mind so that I can realize the possibilities in my life.

After a run, it feels like I am ready to conquer the world!
Bob

Apr 10 12, 4:08 am PDT

42
Wow, I just love the concept of soul vitamins.
Ok, here’s my secret simple soul vitamin:
Shut the door. Close the windows. Turn on the music. And dance like I’m out of my mind. Rest assured, it looks incredibly silly, and I’d be very embarassed if others would see me moving in those… well… “creative” ways ;-) BUT: It does the job of turning my emotional state upside down within 5 minutes max.
Nicole Luongo

Apr 10 12, 5:26 am PDT

43
Writing puts me in my comfort zone! Thanks for the opportunity to win the giveaway.
xiaomin Yu
Apr 10 12, 12:03 pm PDT

44
Love this article! Reading something uplifting (like TSN), or visualizing desired feeling of future events, or go out for a walk usually instantly make me feel better.
Uzma

Apr 10 12, 12:42 pm PDT

45
Thank you for sharing the greatness, Tina. What puts me in the comfort zone,’ – the wind with the smell of rain blowing through me, my spirit, my soul, a beautiful sky of orange and blue, and a fullness in the air, and finally that moment when it all breaks and it rains. I come alive’.
God bless
Abby Butts

Apr 10 12, 1:22 pm PDT

46
Walking the dog every evening gives me a chance to think about everything and nothing at the same time. Its also helps me get out of work mode and into home mode so I can be present and relaxed and enjoy spending time with my family.
Danielle
Apr 10 12, 1:44 pm PDT

47
Thank you thank you thank you! I went through this, just this morning! I was in a funk and texted my situation to my tribe (two unconditional girlfriends). We reach out for mirroring and support, not to expect to be rescued. We had made agreements for code words that were loaded with positive intent. Words/sayings that we trusted and would remind us of our truth and faith in the power of the present, and ourselves. “Pivot” is one of these words. So, in addition to mentioning my funk and the alleged (because I know EVERYTHING about my conscious and subconscious behavior and thoughts, right?) reasons for it, I also included the “pivot”al solution to help myself out of it…

…my activity that puts me back in my comfort zone? Smiling at others, genuinely, and receiving an authentic smile and greeting in return. I’m detached from any type of return, but am most often pleasantly reminded of how a smile from a stranger surprises others!

I see it as a way to interact and remind myself that a smile exchanged is healing for all involved, and usually, it will be passed along and compounded. My funk? No more… it trickles in here and there, but I recall my exchange of smiles and the looks on their face as they received and gave, and it dissipates that trickle and replaces it with faith that all is well. Times change, things pass.

One friend texted, sharing that my smile is magical and how it charges her batteries. The other called to say she literally felt warmth in her recollecting how my smile made her feel.

:o))))))))))))))

Thank you! I’m so looking forward to the book. The three tips alone are so simple, and yet monumental!!! Instant, moderate, and tempting… so true!!! To have a go-to-list is brilliant! And asking those who love us to support us in this rewiring, and offering this go-to-list for their referral in their supporting us. I’m making this list straight away, and I’ll definitely be paying attention to I how choose to comfort myself!
polona
Apr 10 12, 2:22 pm PDT

48
reading, trying new things such as learning to play modern song on piano, snowboarding.. :)
Yasemin
Apr 10 12, 2:33 pm PDT

49
Activities that put me in my comfort zone are ones I do because I truly love myself. Like, taking myself for a run and getting out my nervous energy that way (versus going crazy on sugar), cleaning up my diet, stretching to relaxing music, singing, crying, reading motivational articles (such as this one!).
I’ve found changing your body, your posture, has incredible power when you feel stuck in a hopeless situation. Dancing crazy to hard core or sexy music really makes me feel empowered to tackle the next challenge ;)
Joy
Apr 10 12, 5:21 pm PDT

50
Running (the feeling afterwards)
A good book.
Reggae music.
Listening to Eckhart Tolle talk, weird but true.
Luvlee
Apr 11 12, 8:14 am PDT

51
When I’m feeling down over several days, grabbing my camera and shooting photos can shift my mood.

If its a low mood over a couple of hours I’ve found that taking a drive and listening to music can help me get out of the funk.

If I can’t take a drive, I’ll need to get up and walk around and do some focused breathing.

Always looking for additional methods to keep in the arsenal so thanks for this post.
Henri
Apr 11 12, 11:57 am PDT

52
Getting angry on myself for letting the mess (work) grow too big to influencing my mood then cleaning the apartment and organizing work and getting stuff done. Its the focused thoughtless cleaning routine that helps to clear the mind. Cheers!
Diana
Apr 11 12, 12:41 pm PDT

53
Thanks Danielle.
“You can rise to the occasion after you remember what you’re made of — but you need those reminders.”

This short, but to the point, has come to me at a time that I need to be reminded what I’m made of. Unfortunately, bad moments have a thing on staying for awhile, so I need all the advice I can absorb!

What activity puts me in my comfort zone? Working out. Being able to push my body to a limit, and then feeling that emotional/mental burn to push harder! If it’s not working out, it would either be holding my camera – shooting away, hanging out with my best friends, or enjoying nature.
Margalit

Apr 11 12, 2:36 pm PDT

54
I love to walk outside. It nourishes me. I love Danielle’s articles and am a big fan. Thanks for sharing here on ThinkSimpleNow. Love this blog too!
Jean
Apr 11 12, 6:10 pm PDT

55
When feeling stressed I call my best friend who is also my sister. We help each other through everything.
Jean
Apr 11 12, 6:20 pm PDT

56
When I get stressed or worried I call my sister, she is my best friend.
I also will go outside and sit and just focus on nature. (Sounds, smells, animals).
Tara
Apr 11 12, 11:52 pm PDT

57
Hi Danielle!
Thank you for this article! I recently discovered Restorative Yoga (aka organized nap time ;)) I <3 it!!! On Friday's I make the effort to finish work on time to unwind from the week I just had and just be mindful of my body, being in the present moment and renewing my spirit for what comes next!

I am always looking for ideas for Team Building Exercises for my staff. We support adults with disabilities and we don't always take time for ourselves. These questions would be great to remind each of us to reevaluate what is important for us as individuals.

I also wanted to say "thanks" to those who have left comments… I may add some new ideas to my lists!

I feel inspired!
KTO
Apr 12 12, 12:52 pm PDT

58
Yoga and swimming in the ocean – soothe the savage beast.
Sarah Anma

Apr 12 12, 4:28 pm PDT

59
Beautifully stated! Things that bring me to my comforting zone are:
watching a movie in an art house movie theater, time with my husband or dog, singing, Kundalini yoga, serving others, green smoothies, dancing in the kitchen, jumping dance with my husband and many more.
Thanks for bringing me back to them!
Glori

Apr 12 12, 11:38 pm PDT

60
Thank you so much for this post!
I usually jog four rounds around our local football field when I need to get away from too much noise (aka money problems). But I never really called it a soul vitamin before.
I am an introvert so lunches with friends or anything involving other people would just create more chaos in me. I need silence, and thanks for reminding me that I do.
Li Li

Apr 13 12, 7:17 pm PDT

61
My ‘comfort zone’ activities have changed over the years. I don’t know how to explain this changes, now that this question is posed by TSN, I’ve just realised this differences.

When I was younger, I used to love to make cards/posters, use alot of colours, and simply ‘cutting and pasting’ stuff,.playing with colours was so soothing for me.

Today, when I feel down and have no one to speak to, the first thing I do is to look for baking recipes online, and start baking in silence, and watch the dough rise in the oven. The smell of freshly baked cake/muffins gives me a huge sense of calmness. But other than that, I would just rub my dog’s head. Him being still and so loyal to me sends comfort straight to the heart.

And when I generally feel that I need inspiration, I turn to blogs like this- it never fails to teach me something new.
Elmuder

Apr 13 12, 11:18 pm PDT

62
Hi!
Thanks for the nice info. about the tecnoprenuer stuff, I’m a newly vindicated entreprenuer who is enthusiastically looking for some useful advice that I can use for my chosen field.. Hope I could be qualified for your draw and get the copy of your fire starter Book giveaways.. To answer your question about the things and activities on my comfort zone I think talking with my family and friends about anything or doing some fun fun fun activities with my children or doing some research work on how to improve myself and be an effected entreprenuer..
Good luck to Think Simple Now it’s always brings something new.. A nice read and it never fails to bring me enlightenment with my daily routine activities..
Lorii Abela

Apr 14 12, 4:11 am PDT

63
Great post!.. Love all the tips that you’ve shared. Thanks for sharing.
Mickey

May 10 12, 10:51 pm PDT

64
What a great blog. It reminds me of a book I just recently finished that blew me away. 25 Laws for Doing the Impossible. It’s a must read.
key tag

May 18 12, 3:57 am PDT

65
Thanks for sharing this very inspiring post…I am always striving to find ideas for Team Building Exercises for my staff. We support adults with disabilities and we don’t always take time for ourselves.
key tag

Jun 23 12, 3:40 am PDT

66
This is really very useful to find ideas for Team Building Exercises for my staff because we always support adults with disabilities.

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Facing Challenges

KNOW YOUR “COMFORTING” ZONE

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