In this Magic Monday, we look at four steps to take to identify and overcome obstacles.
We’ve likely all been in a place at some point where we just feel stuck, physically or mentally. Overcome by obstacles in our path without a clear path forward. How can we clear these hurdles? Kevin Daum, a columnist for Inc. business magazine, shares “4 Tips for Overcoming Obstacles.” He starts off by identifying three main types of obstacles:
- External Obstacles: Things you can’t control, like the weather or a sudden emergency.
- Internal Obstacles: Things you can control, like developing talent or managing your time.
- Habitual Obstacles: These things are some of the most difficult to overcome as we often don’t think about when or why we’re doing these things, like speaking or thinking a certain way or always using a particular tool or process.
To conquer these, Daum suggests the following tips:
Embrace Self-Awareness
This requires us to take a close look at ourselves and to be honest. Do we really not have time, or is it a question of priorities? Is it truly impossible, or do we just need a perspective adjustment?
Use Time to Your Advantage
This is especially helpful for external obstacles. When something comes up that is out of our control, focus on what we can do instead. Plan for how to tackle that obstacle again once we’re able to.
Commit to Focused Discipline
Everyone’s busy. But we can try not to let that become an excuse. Carve out time each day to dedicate to an obstacle until it’s been overcome!
Engage Your Own Creativity
How can we think outside of the box and be creative with our goals? A good start might be setting habit-forming behaviors within daily routines you already perform (also known as “habit stacking”).
Remember, sometimes, the smallest changes can make the biggest difference. Take it step by step. Day by day. Compare your progress and be pleasantly surprised – you can do it!
Want more stories about our people and culture?