Page 195 - Foundations of Learning, 4th Edition (Revised)

When a successful event happens, a person who is strong at responding to success:

• is future-oriented rather than living in the past

• looks for areas to improve (in the future)

• enjoys the journey on the road to a success and does not dwell strictly on the outcome

• maintains emotional balance; he or she doesn’t get too high and puts the accomplishment in the
proper perspective

Managing frustration
Typically, frustration occurs when the degree of challenge in a learning situation is too great compared
to the available skills and resources. Those who are strong at managing frustration are able to keep
their emotions in check without getting to the point of anger or complete disengagement. They believe
that frustration, at the right levels, can be positive and lead to productive outcomes as well as building
emotional skills. This is in contrast to individuals who when they get frustrated, let initial frustrations
quickly get out of control and the result is unproductive behavior.

When a person who is strong at managing frustration gets frustrated, he or she:

• does not let frustration decrease his or her level of performance

• uses frustration as a motivating tool

• does not let his or her frustrations affect others and their performance

• uses a variety of techniques to release or neutralize the frustrations

Taking risks
Risk-taking involves taking on new challenges that have uncertain outcomes. Success is not guaranteed
and the possibilities for failure are real. Those who are strong risk-takers are willing to move outside
of their comfort zones in various contexts (mind, body, relationships, etc.) focusing on the upside
potential rather than the downside. They are willing to accept short-term failure to obtain long-term
success. This is in contrast to individuals who do not venture outside their comfort zones and need the
security of certain positive outcomes before taking on new challenges, thus limiting their opportunities
for personal growth.

Typically, strong risk-takers:

• focus on the potential benefits rather than costs or downside

• are strong at responding to both successes and failures

• are strong emotionally; not letting fear be an immobilizing emotion

• are able to make great intuitive leaps

• view risks within realistic contexts

“If you don’t risk anything you risk even more.” Erica Jong, American author 189
Chapter 7 — Addressing Personal Obstacles