When Challenges Happen: How a Conference, a Tech Meltdown, and Core Values Shaped My Financial Mindset
Last week, I flew into Dallas for a conference, excited for new connections and fresh ideas. My buddy Brad picked me up from the airport, and I couldn’t help but smile as I hopped into his unmistakable lime green, fully branded Get You in Shape jeep—a burst of color against the surprisingly chilly Dallas backdrop.
Since we landed around lunchtime, Brad and I decided to grab a bite at Chipotle. I was more than happy to cover his Burrito Bowl as a token of thanks, and our meal quickly turned into a catch-up session filled with good vibes and shared stories.
With a couple of spare hours on our hands, we did what any dedicated entrepreneur would do: get some work done. Brad has a quirky, stand-alone office on his property that’s perfect for brainstorming. Energized by our full bellies and great conversation, I set out to connect with 15 contacts—5 past clients, 5 trial participants, and 5 folks from social media. I fired up my laptop to log into my CRM and ZAP, only to have it unexpectedly die. In an instant, my carefully planned start to a 4-day trip unraveled, leaving me without access to the tools I rely on—and without email on my phone.
That frustrating moment of tech failure reminded me that even the best-laid plans can hit unexpected snags, and sometimes these setbacks force us to adapt in ways we never imagined. That unexpected tech failure, while maddening, pushed me to reconsider my approach to challenges—and how disruption can actually invite us to be more present. Little did I know, this unplanned pause was about to set the tone for several days filled with insights on resilience, simplicity, and the true value of embracing vulnerability.
The next day, I arrived at the conference center—a pristine, welcoming venue that rivaled any I’ve seen before. Despite the many positives of the event, I couldn’t shake the urge to compare myself to others. I found myself feeling “less than” even though I knew, deep down, I’d achieved more success than most of the people around me. It was a stark reminder that feelings can sometimes hold more power than reality.
Comparison is so challenging because everywhere we look, we’re presented with highlight reels. Whether online or at a conference, the focus is often on those monster revenue months, while only the most vulnerable admit to financial or business losses—or even personal struggles. I’ve been in this industry for a loooooong time, and I’ve noticed most people don’t share their struggles until after they’ve overcome them. Heck, I didn’t talk about my financial awakening until I had finally come to terms with it.
After my computer unexpectedly crashed, I was forced to rethink my plans. While I was frustrated, I did everything I could to fix it—visiting two different computer repair shops to no avail. Eventually, I accepted that it wasn’t meant to be. I took it as a sign to go all in on making the most of the conference and being fully present. It’s so tempting to squeeze in extra tasks, but in doing so, we often miss the very moments that matter.
That evening, I spent time in the hotel business center to get organized and even managed to order a new computer, which arrived at my house before I returned. This experience reminded me of the importance of having contingency plans and backing everything up. More importantly, it taught me to be adaptable and resilient. It’s all too easy to use setbacks as excuses, but they can also be opportunities for growth.
Drawing from these experiences, here are a few actionable takeaways I’ve embraced:
Simplify: Whether it’s handling your money or navigating a computer crash, sometimes the answer is as simple as ordering a new device or tracking your spending.
Values First: The most financially successful people align their core values with their financial choices. If growth and learning matter to you, you’ll invest in coaching or education when it makes sense.
Action: It’s common to attend a conference, soak up tons of valuable info, and then do nothing. Taking action—even if it means learning as you go—is always better than inaction.
Another powerful takeaway from the conference was the importance of vulnerability. Being vulnerable is tough for me—I want people to like me, and I worry that showing my struggles might lead them to think less of me. Sometimes, I’m even confused about what to do next. But on this journey toward authenticity, I’ve discovered that what I once perceived as a weakness can actually be a hidden strength.
As I look back on my time in Dallas, I’m reminded of the unexpected challenges that shaped my experience. From the tech meltdown that derailed my plans to the creeping self-doubt at the conference, it became clear that setbacks—and the emotions they stir—are inevitable. But what matters most is how we choose to respond. Whether dealing with a failed computer or grappling with feelings of comparison, embracing vulnerability, staying adaptable, and focusing on our core values can transform challenges into opportunities.
When life doesn’t go according to plan, it’s okay to pause, reflect, and reframe our approach. Sometimes, those unplanned moments are where the greatest growth happens. How have your unexpected setbacks led to personal or professional growth? I’d love to hear your story.
Remember, personal and financial success isn’t just about one victory after another—it’s about how we handle the hurdles along the way. So, next time you face a setback, remember: it's not about the setback itself, but how you choose to rise above it. Embrace those moments, learn from them, and let them be the catalyst for your next breakthrough.
