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Every now and again, we find ourselves in dire situations that baffle and leave us wondering, “how on earth did I get here?”
Can you recollect anytime in your life that felt like “it just happened?”
It could be things like excessive debt, a shattered relationship, or unemployment.
In my experience, finding answers and solutions to such “how did I get here?” situations requires two core elements: remembering and reflecting.
These two elements, when combined effectively, can lead to answers, and the final result is usually achieving what I call “standing with giants.”
You know that “aha” moment when you crack it. When you achieve that, you feel on top of the world—literally, like a giant.
In this article, I will guide you through the process of recalling past achievements and experiences (remembering), engaging in deep self-reflection about current situations and how they fit into the broader context of your life (reflecting), and how doing both helps you achieve greatness (standing with giants).
Remember – There’s Strength in Your Story
Memory is fuel. When life shakes you, your past victories remind you that you’ve been here before.
Think of Sully, the pilot who landed a plane on the Hudson River. What looked like a miracle was years of preparation and countless memories of past drills that shaped his instinct.
On a personal note, I remember a challenging migration project I led at work. At first, the pressure was unbearable. But I recalled multiple previous server upgrades I had managed under equally high stakes. That memory anchored me. It whispered, “you’ve done this before.” And indeed, I did it again.
Practical step: Keep a journal of your wins, no matter how small. They serve as reminders that you are stronger than your current situation and that overcoming challenges is an integral part of your story.
Reflect – Turning Moments into Meaning
Reflection is the bridge between memory and wisdom. It is not just recalling events, but asking: what does this mean for me now?
Take Nelson Mandela. His 27 years in prison weren’t wasted. He reflected, reframed, and emerged not bitter but ready to lead. His story is one of resilience in the face of unthinkable hardship.
I once met a Saudi woman on a train who spoke passionately about her homeland. That conversation made me reflect on how little we often know about others until we truly listen. It reminded me that growth comes from pausing to see beyond the obvious.
Practical step: Ask yourself one reflective question daily: what life lesson is this situation trying to teach me?
Stand with Giants – Becoming Your Strongest Self
To stand with giants means walking in wisdom, courage, and clarity. It’s the fruit of remembering and reflecting.
Steve Jobs was once ousted from Apple. By remembering his creative instincts and reflecting on his mistakes, he founded Pixar and later returned to Apple stronger. His setbacks didn’t define him; his reflection did. That is the power of personal growth through adversity.
In my own journey, I’ve learned that giants are not always historical figures. Sometimes, they are your best self—the version of you that rises after failure. When you remember and reflect, you find yourself walking shoulder to shoulder with that giant.
Practical step: Surround yourself with mentors, books, or stories of people who’ve endured hardship. Their journeys light your path and strengthen your resilience.
Conclusion
Life’s most challenging moments can leave you paralysed, but they are never wasted.
When you remember past victories, you gather courage. When you reflect on your present, you gain wisdom. And when you combine both, you rise. You stand with giants.
The next time you feel stuck, don’t just ask “why me?” Instead, remember, reflect, and rise.
