common trap is when our short-term feelings are misguided and do not align with our values or long-term goals. - Brad Stulberg

There's an old Eastern proverb that says, "The master has failed more times than the student has even tried." We'd all be wise to take it to heart.

Accept what is happening without fusing your identity to it. Zoom out to a larger perspective or awareness from which you can observe your situation without feeling like you are trapped in it. Choose how you want to move forward in a way that aligns with your innermost values. Take action, even if doing so feels scary or uncomfortable.

Those who focus most on success are least likely to achieve it. Those who focus least on success, and focus on the process of engaging in their craft instead, are most likely to achieve it.