Things happen throughout the course of our lives that we simply cannot control, no matter how hard we try. All of the stress, pain, and resentment can be a heavy burden to bear. They say that how we play the game of life shows some character, but how we win or lose shows all of it. Here are a few ways we can mitigate an unwanted outcome and emerge stronger and happier: Untangle from negative thoughts. Ask how acting on emotion will help us live life in the long run.