🏃♀️ Take It in Stride: Mastering Life’s Hurdles Like a Pro 🏇
Definition: To accept circumstances as they are; to deal calmly with a setback, sudden popularity, or any other occurrence, much like a horse clearing a hurdle without slowing down.
Origins: This expression conjures the imagery of a horse elegantly jumping a hurdle without breaking its pace. Figuratively entering the lexicon around 1900, the phrase paints a picture of grace under pressure.
Literary Walk: Edith Wharton employed the phrase in her timeless novel The House of Mirth (1905): “I’d want something that would look more easy and natural, more as if I took it in my stride.”
When W.S. Gilbert wrote in The Gondoliers (1889, “Life’s Tangled Skein,” Act I): “Life’s a pleasant institution, /Let us take it as it comes!” it epitomized this commendable philosophy.
Similar Terms & Phrases:
- Take it as it comes: Accept whatever happens.
- Roll with the punches: Adapt to adverse circumstances.
- Go with the flow: Accept things as they are without resistance.
- Keep your cool: Stay calm under pressure.
Antonyms:
- Throw a tantrum: React impatiently or angrily.
- Lose your cool: Become agitated or anxious.
- Blow a fuse: React with excessive anger or frustration.
Humor-filled Quotes: “Anyone can run after the crowd. It takes COURAGE to walk alone and take life in stride!” - Unknown. “Taking things in stride is all well and good until the stride turns into a samba-dance. Handle with care!” – W. T. Wittywords
Suggested Readings and References:
- The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton
- The Gondoliers by W.S. Gilbert
- Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff … and it’s all small stuff by Richard Carlson
Songs & Movies:
- “Let It Be” by The Beatles: A soothing song that mirrors the serenity needed to take things in stride.
- Kung Fu Panda: Po’s journey exemplifies rolling with the punches in delightful panda-style.
- “Get Back Up Again” - Trolls (Movie): An optimistic song encouraging resilience and a go-with-the-flow attitude.
Proverbs:
- “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.”
- “This too shall pass.”
Fictitious Author: E. L. Equanimity
Publishing Date: 2023-10-05
Inspirational Thought-provoking Farewell: Farewell Thought: Remember, life may throw unexpected hurdles your way, but taking them in stride turns the seemingly unbearable into a graceful dance.
Below you’ll find some engaging quizzes to test your knowledge on taking things in stride:
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