This is a phrase that everyone can relate to. We all have been thrown into unexpected situations. Initially, you may be shocked, confused, or overwhelmed. But it’s what you do with those lemons that will ultimately either break or build you.

My toughest “lemon” moment occurred in 2018. Not until recently was I able to open up and share my experience. I briefly mention my story HERE, but I experienced a traumatic break up from a long term boyfriend and fiancé that it threw my entire world for a loop. My entire life changed in a matter of 1 week. After thirteen months of planning, two months before the day that every girl dreams of (my wedding date), 48 hours before standing alongside a childhood friend as a bridesmaid, and 1 week before my bachelorette trip to Mexico, my wedding was called off. Immediately my entire body went numb and I didn’t even know how to respond. I felt an array of emotions all at once- confusion, sadness, hopelessness, frustration. One of my first thoughts was “How will I make it through these next few days?” Although I wanted to take time to cry, scream, vent, etc., I didn’t have much time to dwell on things because my mind immediately went into business mode. I was worried about finding a new place to live since I lived with my fiancé at the time. I had to focus on canceling all contracts with wedding vendors and attempting to get some deposits and money back that was already spent. Making several phone calls to notify close friends and family of the news. All of these things were mentally and physically draining, but somehow I had to find the strength to put on a brave face and attend a wedding the very next day. 

In the midst of the chaos, I also had to center my focus around my career. From January to August, I had 8 different finance job interviews, made it to the final round of each, and repeatedly heard “no.” Four days following the cancellation, I had one of the biggest interviews to date with an amazing company. At this point, I was no stranger to rejection and I contemplated canceling the interview altogether given all of the things going on. I had no idea how I would put a smile on my face, speak to my qualifications, and act as everything was fine because it wasn’t.

As I am experiencing all of these unexpected moments, I am not feeling like the fun, happy, positive “Tiff” that I usually am. The only way that I made it through those 7 days was with a lot of prayer, faith, and an amazing support system. I was constantly reminded that this isn’t a sad moment but a moment to be celebrated (even though I didn’t see it right away). God quickly stepped in and began blessing me and gave me a sense of hope! I found a place to live within 24 hours of my search (a beautiful condo in the heart of Midtown Atlanta). After hearing “no” 8 different times, I received a full-time job offer with an amazing company only 5 hours after my interview! These small wins were something for me to smile about during a current storm. 

These 7 days were the beginning of my new lifestyle and mindset. By choice, I didn’t let this “lemon” break me mentally, but instead it was a catalyst of building and strengthening me. You may refer to the quote “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” For me, this quote doesn’t directly apply to every situation. Life isn’t that simple or obvious. Instead, I live by the following:

When life gives you lemons, add salt and tequila, and keep it pushing. Better days are ahead!