Remember this tough but simple fact the next time that fate seems to have dealt you an unusually cruel hand:

Nobody likes a whiner.

Oh, we feel bad for you, all right. Just say the word and we'll do whatever we can to help you. And, truth be told, deep down we're glad it was you and not us. But railing against the forces of evil that have struck you down does not endear you to our hearts. And forget the whole "life's not fair" schtick, too. You're right, life's not fair. But it's not unfair, either. Life just is.

Whether you like it or not, your success or failure is entirely in your hands. The preparations you make, the experiences you embrace, the people with whom you choose to associate, the goals you set and your commitment to them, your reaction to events outside of your control; these are the forces that control your destiny. And yes, at times you will fail. Things won't turn out as planned. It will seem as though the gods are against you.

But here's the trick. Rather than waste time wallowing in self-pity and whining about it, spend that time and energy developing an understanding about why you are where you are and what you can do to reverse course. It's a much more productive approach to life's setbacks and it won't annoy nearly as many people.