🎯 Setbacks, Sling Shots and Launching Toward Growth 🎯

Let’s be real, setbacks happen. In fact, in sessions (and yes, I say this a lot), I often encourage individuals to relabel their setbacks as gentle—or not so gentle—reminders. Reminders that something needs to change... or that we never want to go back to where we were before.

You might feel stuck. You're not alone—70% of people report feeling stagnant at least once a month (Harris Poll, 2022).  But here’s the twist, research shows that people who reflect on failure are more likely to bounce back better and faster (PSPB Journal). Setbacks aren’t the problem—how you respond is everything.

🏹 Sling Shot Mode Activated🏹

Think of yourself like a sling shot.  A pullback doesn’t mean you’re failing—it’s building momentum.  The steadier and more intentional that pullback, the farther you’ll launch… and in the right direction.

When life pulls you back, try this:

✔️ Relabel & Refocus – Not failure, just feedback 

✔️ Learn the lesson – Even the cringey ones 

✔️ Expect setbacks – They’re part of the process 

✔️ Adjust the aim – Where do you want to go next?

Yes, you’ll revert to old habits. Yes, you’ll fall off track. That’s normal. The real magic? Using those moments as fuel—not evidence that you’re off course. Growth isn’t a straight line.  Setbacks aren’t stop signs—they’re launchpads.

Need help finding your focus again? TDT Counseling Services is here to help you aim with clarity and fly forward with purpose.