When it comes to reaching your goals, it’s a given that you will face some challenges along the way. But what differentiates achievers from those who don’t quite hit the mark is how they face overcoming adversity. For these leaders, they view adversity as an obstacle, not a roadblock. It’s something the navigated, negotiated, and overcome.

Overcoming Adversity Is a Common Theme

did have what it takes to be a professional running back—in spite of my rather literal shortcoming.

What obstacles are in your path? After all, we all have them from time to time.

They may be things you can change, or they may be things you can’t—such as your height. Your challenges may be short term or things that you can struggle with for the long haul. No matter what you’re facing, though, you can overcome them!

Here are my top four tips for overcoming adversity and being the winner you are!

#1: Stay Focused

The top key to overcoming adversity is to keep your goal in sight. Write it down and put it everywhere. Remind yourself daily that you can do this. When you hit a bump in the road, take a deep breath and keep moving.

Obstacles will appear in even the most successful person’s path. But that’s not a reason to give up. Surround yourself with your supporters and always be your biggest cheerleader.

#2: Keep Moving Forward

To get anywhere, you have to keep moving. Just as Dory in Finding Nemo chants, “Just keep swimming,” you have to keep going as well. Don’t let those roadblocks stop you from moving. No matter what, you have to persevere and keep moving forward.

Remember that one of the biggest things about overcoming adversity is to stay strong and resilient. When you fall down, get back up—and either try again or find another way. You may discover the journey to your goal isn’t what you expected, and that’s okay. Plan A may not be possible. In fact, it might be Plan Z that gets you there. Just. Keep. Going.

#3: Remain Accountable

Make a commitment to your goal—and to yourself—that you’ll do whatever it takes to get you to the finish line. Then do it. Don’t settle. Don’t make or accept excuses. Be disciplined. Be honest with yourself. Take responsibility for your actions, choices, and decisions. If what’s going on isn’t advancing you toward your goal, admit it and make a change.

#4: Be Objective

When it comes to overcoming adversity, objectivity is a game changer. Overcoming adversity is far from easy, and it can wreak havoc with your emotions. Frustration. Anger. Despair. It’s all part of the game.

The best way to succeed at overcoming adversity is to keep a clear head. Take emotion out of the equation and be as objective as possible. Take a step back, take a deep breath, and take a close look at the situation to figure out what you need to do to keep making progress toward your goal. Turn obstacles into opportunities. Look for alternatives. Consider your options. And make a plan.

Bonus Tip: Learn from Those Who’ve Succeeded

The legendary writer and self-improvement pioneer Dale Carnegie created a four-step method for overcoming adversity that details an entirely objective approach. In summary: Define the problem, determine the worst possible outcome, resolve to accept that outcome, and minimize the consequences.

Famed player, coach, and analyst Lou Holtz was once quoted as saying something about adversity that really resonates with me: “Show me someone who has done something worthwhile, and I’ll show you someone who has overcome adversity.”

What worthwhile goal are you going to achieve?

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