So your ship didnt come in because it sprung a leak and sank instead. Something you hoped for didnt materialize, or youve suffered a loss. Something crummy comes your way.

Its very tempting and easy to lapse into lethargy and become immobilized. In fact, thats the response of the majority of the people out there. So if you really want an extra edge over everyone else that will help ensure your success, become one of the few who are able to persevere in spite of setbacks.

Its fine to take some time to grieve or to just plain mope. But at some point, and probably sooner than you think youre ready, its time to pull yourself together and forge ahead.

Here are some strategies to help you get back on track:

1. Start filling your personal hopper. This means to start initiating things that might come back to you or that might grow into something of value. For example, if your job has gone from bad to worse, update your resume and start sending it out. Start an internet business on the side. Enroll in a course to upgrade your skills. Order something exciting by mail order. Plan a trip. These are all seeds to plant for the future. Just taking these steps will energize you and give you a sense of optimism, because you have things to look forward to.

2. Schedule a night out with friends or with a loved one. Even if you dont feel like it, force yourself to do this. Go see a movie or try a restaurant youve been wanting to visit. You dont have to discuss your problems if you dont want to; often the camaraderie and sense of support is enough.

3. Start a project unrelated to your problem. For instance, start cleaning out the garage and getting it organized. Learn to knit, and make a scarf for a loved one. Commit to a running program. When you pull your focus away from your problem, it actually makes you more open to creative solutions. Often theyll come to you, unbidden, while youre engaged in an unrelated activity.

If you already know what brings you out of a funk, capture these strategies in a list somewhere. The next time youre struggling and need a lift, consult this list and take action. Sometimes you absolutely have to force yourself to do this. (Its similar to how we want to slap that perky person who insists on telling us to have a terrific day when were feeling grumpy.) But if you force yourself, the momentum will kick in, and your attitude will improve.

And when your attitude improves, ideas and solutions are more likely to come to you.