While we're all unique, there are common emotional experiences that we share, experiences that are part and parcel of human existence. But when it's a challenging emotional journey, how do you go about regaining a healthy equilibrium? And why are some personal journeys harder to handle than others?

Below are five of the most common emotional journeys we may experience, and expert advice on how to get through them.

If history has shown us anything it's that great leadership, either at home, work or in even an oval shaped office, requires a healthy dose of persistence and determination. That's a knockout combo when it comes to inspiring others, as shown by these five amazing leaders.

Almost 50,000 runners crossed the finish line at the TCS New York City Marathon on Sunday. Most posed for a photograph, collected a gold medal and then walked, limped and winced their way toward friends and family. Because that's the truth of it ― for most, even the professionals, running 26.2 miles hurts.

Which leads to the question: What does it take to accomplish such a tremendous and taxing fitness goal?

We're all familiar with rags to riches tales -- the entrepreneur who went from being almost homeless to netting a bank balance in the hundreds of millions, or the university dropout-turned-software giant. And while success for some may appear easy, it's often far from it. With the odds firmly stacked against them, their victories make us ask ourselves the question: if THEY can do it, why can't I? From goal-setting to tenacity, below experts identify the habits of people whose setbacks have helped fuel a drive for success.

The Dalai Lama once said: "Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions." During a difficult period of my life I leant strongly on the philosophy of Buddhism. Among the many lessons I learned is that the gift of giving not only brings so much satisfaction and happiness to the giver, but it also has the ability to create a ripple effect. I learned that one small act of kindness can mean so much to so many.

While the little things in life can certainly make your day, a growing body of research says keeping your eye on the long game can make a major difference in how much you enjoy your life.

One recent study found that living your life with a sense of purpose could make you less likely to rely on external validation (in this case via Facebook "likes") for your well-being.

What motivates you is entirely up to you. But understanding your own priorities, knowing what you are working to accomplish and being committed to meaningful causes can help balance your sense of self-esteem and self-worth.

Pitching a big idea is an art form. But, when you decide to run your idea past your boss, the concept of pitching is taken to a different level.

"Hey, can I tell you about my great new idea?" is a conversation opener heard across countless boardrooms. But, there's a time and place for everything.

If you get your timing wrong, chances are you've blown your moment to impress your boss and convince him or her to let you turn your idea into a reality.