We all need to know – at some point in our lives – that we can overcome challenges thrown at us and thrive.

Think about a situation or time when you were really frustrated.  Or a time when you might have been afraid or anxious. Due to that state of mind, maybe the outcome wasn’t a positive one?

Have you ever looked back and thought to yourself, “I probably could have handled that much better?” Of course, we all have. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

And truly, there is very simple way to learn to overcome challenges.

When we face a situation that causes negative emotion, the biggest obstacle we face is not the situation itself, but rather how we perceive the situation. If we get frustrated and say something is impossible, well then it probably is impossible.  And with a negative outlook from the outset, defeat is almost a certainty.

The highest achievers in life, in business, in any pursuit, are not wallowing in self-pity and doubt. They rather have the ability to meet and surpass any obstacle they might face. They know how to overcome challenges – and likely with grace.

There is one easy trick that you can use to better handle and overcome challenges and negativity. It is very easy to use, but it does take a commitment to breaking old patterns.

Neuro-linguistic programming, or NLP, was created by Richard Bandler and John Grinder in the 1970s. It’s an approach to communication and personal development. NLP describes the dynamics between mind (neuro) and language (linguistic) and how the two affect our body and our behavior (programming).

Much of the time we can’t control what happens to us and the situations we face. We can, however, control how we view the situation, how we talk about it, and consequently, how we deal with it.

Not much good comes out of situations when we approach them with frustration, anger, resentment, or any other negative emotion. We are much better able to succeed with an attitude and presence of positivity, calmness, and neutrality.

Here is a list of just 10 of the many successful people that use NLP to overcome challenges, find greater joy and fulfillment, and create a better quality of life:

• Bill Clinton  
• Tony Blair 
• Donna Karan 
• J.K. Rowling 
• Tiger Woods 
• Serena Williams 
• Bill Gates 
• Geri Halliwell 
• Oprah Winfrey 
• Tony Robbins 

While there is some debate when it comes to Neuro-linguistic programming, if it is something that is used by some the most powerful people, like those listed above, there is merit. Why not try?

Susan Sly: Susan Sly is a productivity specialist, best-selling author, speaker, trainer and entrepreneur.  She has appeared on CNN, CNBC, Fox, Lifetime Television, The CBN, The Morning Show in Australia and been quoted in Forbes Magazine Online.  Susan is the author of 7 books.  Her book project with NY Times Best Selling Author, Jack Canfield, made six Amazon Best Selling lists. Susan is the mother of five children and resides with her husband in Scottsdale, Arizona.  Susan truly believes we can have it all.