About this quote

Hard times often last longer than we plan for. Feeling surprised or worn down when setbacks stretch on is normal, and naming that fact helps you act differently. When you expect a longer haul you protect your energy, cut goals into smaller steps, and ask for support sooner. Who can help you now, and what small routine can you keep doing over the next months?

When to use it

• After three months of missed sales targets, I told the team, "I just didn't expect the storm would last as long as it has," and suggested we switch to smaller weekly goals.
• At the clinic after a slow recovery from surgery, I admitted, "I just didn't expect the storm would last as long as it has," and asked the doctor what realistic pace to expect.
• While arranging respite care with my family after half a year of caregiving, I said, "I just didn't expect the storm would last as long as it has," to explain why we needed outside help.
• Over dinner during a long job search, I told my partner, "I just didn't expect the storm would last as long as it has," and we tightened the budget and updated my plan.