Despite what it may look like on social media, life is not always the glittering experience that many people like to project. From time to time, all of us experience setbacks and disappointments. It can be tough, but it’s not impossible to pick yourself back up - especially if you follow a simple six step plan to get yourself back on track.

1. Step 1: Take a step back

In the aftermath of any event that’s been difficult, it stands to reason that you’re going to feel emotional about it - after all, it’s the natural response. Do your very best to take a step back and examine things objectively. That way you’ll give yourself a clearer idea of just how serious things really are – and you may well find that all is not quite as bleak as it may have initially appeared to be.

2. Step 2: Be kind to yourself

For many of us the first reaction when things go wrong is to blame ourselves and wonder how we could have handled things differently. This is the moment when we need to extend the same kind of sympathy to ourselves that we might expect from a close friend. It’s also a good moment for a little self-indulgence, maybe take walk on your favourite route or just treat yourself to a little pick-me-up present. Do whatever it takes to make you feel a bit more like yourself again.

3. Step 3: Ask for support

If you don’t have one already, this is the time to start building a support system. Not only will this take some of the burden off your shoulders, it will also be very useful to get an objective opinion about the situation from people not directly involved in it. Whether it’s from friends, a family support system or even a professional, it will help to put everything into a little more perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask for some help. The people around you will want to give you the support you need, and their involvement is certain to give you an invaluable lift.

4. Step 4: Look for the silver lining

As you move through the process, and with the help and reassurance of those around you, it could become easier to see the positives in your situation. If you missed out on a job role, maybe it’s freed you up to do something else that would otherwise not have been possible. Or you may be in the right place to start thinking about what options you have given your new situation. It might not be immediate but it could still have a major bearing on your future thinking.

5. Step 5: Make a backup plan

Of course, it’s best if you’ve already put a backup plan in place but when events come out of the blue, this isn’t always possible. Developing a positive mindset can make a difference, and you may be more able to see the truth in the observation that “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade”. You could also take this as a wider lesson for the future that always having a Plan B up your sleeve will make life’s hiccups much easier to bear.

6. Step 6: Let positivity pay off

Never underestimate the power of positivity to help see you through. Admittedly this is something that is hard to achieve while you’re still in the immediate fall-out of a difficult event. But as the days and weeks pass, glimmers of light re-enter your life and you’ll soon have a completely new perspective on things. It’s also important to remember that we all have this power of positivity within us. The secret is knowing exactly how and when to release it.