vicissitude
n.n. a change in your life or situation that is usually unpleasant or difficult. You often use the plural form of this word when talking about the constant ups and downs of life.
n. a change of circumstances or fortune, typically one that is unwelcome or unpleasant. Often used in the plural. Countable.
Many people struggle to handle the vicissitudes of the modern economy.
Even the most successful business owners must prepare for the unexpected vicissitudes of the global market.
The philosopher argued that a person's true character is not revealed during periods of prosperity, but rather through how they navigate the unavoidable vicissitudes of a long and difficult life.
From Middle French vicissitude, from Latin vicissitūdō (“change”), from vicissim (“on the other hand, in turn”), from vicis (“change, vicissitude”), whence Spanish vez and French fois (“time (as in "next time"), occurrence”).