It’s amazing what we can end up achieving because of sheer determination, enthusiasm, or even stubbornness. Sometimes we can get ourselves into situations unknowingly, through no fault of our own, and end up having to dig ourselves out of the hole. We all face obstacles, but it’s our response to these challenges that defines our path to success. My dad taught me ‘where there’s a will, there’s a way’
Recently we were helping our son to renovate the kitchen, enthusiastically he bought a fridge freezer that, because it was a display model, it meant that we had to pick it up, it wasn’t their policy to deliver – obstacle #1. Easy solution, grab a few pairs of hands to make light work, rent a truck, problem solved. This was great except the truck that we rented was damaged and the ramp was broken, therefore this truck was unable to be rented- obstacle # 2. No problem, the solution was to rent a different truck and continue as planned. The only truck available in the area, because it was short notice, didn’t have a ramp and I was already in the store by the checkout door waiting – obstacle #3. Solution, after much back-and-forth discussion, we decided that we had enough pairs of hands to get the fridge freezer into the truck without a ramp. Our next obstacle #4 was that our appliance was just too tall (by about 1 inch) to fit into the truck standing up! Now this solution took experts to help us. We were told that if we laid the fridge freezer on its side, as long as we left it to settle for at least 24 hours after moving it, we would be alright. Finally, we got to our destination. The most obvious choice of getting the appliance into the kitchen, was to go through the garage because it was the shortest distance into the kitchen and there were no steps. Obstacle #5, we can get though the garage, but the kitchen door is too small. Choices, put the fridge back into the truck, drive to the front of the house, which is, around the block and too far to move without going back on the truck, or another option was to use the patio doors. After much discussion, the patio doors seemed the best option as it was close and adjacent to the garage. We could move into the kitchen seamlessly, especially as the front had some steps to contend with. Obstacle #6, the fridge still didn’t fit through the patio doors. The only answer this time was to remove one of the patio doors to get the fridge finally into the kitchen.
The stories of people who have achieved greatness often include stories of overcoming significant difficulties, demonstrating that determination and resilience are crucial components of success.
How often do we give up because what we want to achieve takes too much effort?
We had 6 different obstacles to overcome, just for something that seemed so simple of a task. Failing never even occurred to us as an option. Our thought was always solutions oriented; how do we figure this out. Obstacles are not merely barriers; they are fundamental parts of the journey toward success. These hurdles or setbacks test our resolve, patience, and creativity. While obstacles might try our patience and have us feel defeated, they often serve as opportunities in disguise, pushing us to adapt, innovate, and grow. If, like we were, a team, this can cause friction or bring everyone closer together and create more ideas, inspiration and resolve.
Take the example of J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series. Before she became a household name, Rowling faced numerous rejections from publishers, struggled with poverty, and dealt with personal challenges. Yet, her determination to see her story published never wavered. Her persistence in the face of these obstacles eventually led to extraordinary success and the creation of a global phenomenon. Rowling’s story demonstrates how overcoming challenges can turn adversity into a stepping stone for massive achievements.
Determination & Mindset
Determination is the driving force that propels us forward when we encounter obstacles. It’s the inner strength that keeps us moving despite the difficulties we face. Determination is not just about a relentless pursuit of the goal; it’s about maintaining a positive mindset and the willingness to keep going even when progress seems slow. We were solutions oriented, the option of failure never entered our heads, we weren’t about to leave the appliance in the back yard, the end point or goal, was always the kitchen. When we become solutions oriented, we embrace a growth mindset which is essential when facing obstacles because it encourages resilience and a focus on improvement rather than on perceived limitations.
Overcoming setbacks with motivation
Athletes often show a growth mindset. Take Michael Jordan, who was cut from his high school basketball team. Rather than allowing this setback to define him, Jordan used it as motivation to improve his skills. His relentless practice and determination transformed him into one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Jordan’s story shows that obstacles can be powerful catalysts for personal growth when approached with a mindset geared toward development and perseverance.
How often do we underestimate the task at hand? Sometimes with all the planning possible, still we find we have obstacles to overcome that throw us curveballs.
How often do we underestimate the task at hand? Sometimes with all the planning possible, still we find we have obstacles to overcome that throw us curveballs.
6 Strategies to overcome obstacles
- Set Clear Goals: Having a clear vision of what we want to achieve helps in maintaining focus and motivation. Break down the goals into manageable steps and create a plan to tackle each one. This approach makes the path through obstacles more navigable and less overwhelming.
- Stay Flexible: Flexibility is crucial when dealing with obstacles. If a particular approach isn’t working, be willing to adjust the strategy. Flexibility allows us to explore alternative solutions and adapt to changing circumstances without losing sight of the overall goal.
- Ask for help: Seek advice and support from others. Mentors, peers, and support networks can provide valuable insights and encouragement. Surrounding ourselves with positive influences and experts can strengthen our determination and offer practical solutions to overcome challenges.
- Stay positive: A positive mindset can significantly impact our ability to overcome obstacles. Focus on what can be controlled, be creative and find opportunities within difficulties. This attitude helps in staying motivated and resilient, even when faced with setbacks.
- Be determined: View failures as learning experiences rather than as defeats. Analyzing what went wrong and understanding how to adapt can improve growth and resilience. Each obstacle is an opportunity to gain insights and refine the approach
- Recognize progress: Acknowledge and celebrate small victories along the way. Recognizing progress, no matter how minor, helps in maintaining motivation and reinforces the belief that we’re moving toward the end result. Each obstacle that we overcame of getting the fridge from the store to the home took us a step closer to the kitchen.
Every obstacle faced is a chance to build strength, develop skills, and gain wisdom. By adopting a mindset that views challenges as fundamental to the path to success, we can harness the strength needed to persevere through difficulties and emerge stronger as well as build confidence for the future. Embrace the obstacles that are encountered as opportunities for growth and let our determination drive us forward. As we navigate the highs and lows, remember that each challenge faced is a step closer to reaching our ultimate goals. Pave the way for achieving your success.