Do not take setbacks personally
Principle 27 from the Enchiridion
Drop the hostile story and look for the next useful step. A run of setbacks is difficult, but it is not proof that life is personally against you.
Original Passage
As a mark is not set up for the sake of missing the aim, so neither does the nature of evil exist in the world.
Modern Interpretation
Here is one everyday case. Epictetus begins with a simple image: a target is not put up so that everyone can miss it. In the same way, reality is not arranged for the sole purpose of harming us.
The practical point is not to read every setback as proof that life has singled you out. The difficulty is real, but you do not need to add the belief that the universe meant it as a personal attack. That belief tends to make us cynical and less willing to try again.
In Practice
Here is one everyday case. After several setbacks, you start saying, "Nothing ever works for me." Soon every new attempt feels pointless before it begins.
Admit that this is difficult. Then look at what can be learned, change your approach if needed, and try again without carrying the belief that life wants you to fail.
Reflection Question
Where have a few setbacks started to feel like a final verdict? What could you still try differently?