Have you ever considered that the paths to our goals are like obstacle courses? Around each turn on the path is another obstacle that we must figure out how to overcome in order to make it to the goal at the end.
While it may not feel this way, it’s actually normal to encounter obstacles in the pursuit of our goals. Sometimes, however, those obstacles leave us so perplexed that we don’t know how to move forward. These obstacles can range from an annoying distraction that we can put out of our mind as we keep moving forward, or worse, they can make us completely abandon our goals. Here are some helpful, tested pointers that will keep your attention focused in achieving your goal and help you overcome those obstacles.
1. Think Positively
This means: banish the thoughts of quitting from your mind. To quit is tantamount to going back to the starting line of goal accomplishment. Instead, develop a positive mantra. This could be something as simple as “I can do this” or “I’m smart enough to figure this out”. It could even mean going back to the original reason you set this goal and remembering that there is a bigger purpose here than the obstacle staring you in the face.
2. Keep a clear, open and tense-free mind
Always be ready to receive new ideas. Focus and concentrate. Think in a big picture manner and always be open to new options to eliminate the particular obstacle currently standing in your way. Sometimes, we are so frustrated that we immediately rule out the new idea. If we stopped and looked at the obstacle anew with a new lens, we might be able to see how the new idea may actually be the right answer we needed.
3. Persist and Persevere
Be sure to exhaust every possibility, even to the point of trial and error, just to be sure that there is a solution to correct the problem. Sometimes we do have to take that step into uncertainty and try out a possibility before we know if it will work. It can feel awkward as we take this new step. Sometimes, this step is all we need to put the obstacle behind us.
4. Visualize
Try to picture inside your head a possible solution to help overcome and/or solve the obstacle that’s setting you back. I like to use visualization techniques with my clients. Sometimes, we need to get outside our comfort zones a little bit so we can really identify the obstacle and solution. It may feel a little different if you’ve never done this before. However, visualization work can be really helpful in making our goals a reality.
5. Ask for Help
If all else fails, get assistance from a coach who can help you uncover the solution that lies within you. I love helping others dig deep inside and unlock the treasure trove of solutions within their reach so they can find the perfect solution to their obstacles.
If you want a little help setting your goals an keeping them, my Free Goal Companion is just the right tool for you. Grab it here:
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I know what it feels like to navigate paths riddle with obstacles on the way to our goals. I work with women every day to help them move forward in the face of those obstacles. I can help you overcome your obstacles, too. Click here to schedule a time to talk about how I can help you reach your goals.