“Snakes. Why did it have to be snakes?”
This famous line, by Indiana Jones in “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” is something we all can relate to. Throughout the film Indy faces boulders, spiders, and poison darts. He keeps going with the goal firmly in mind. There is only one thing that would stop him: snakes. And there they are, just as he’s about to reach and claim the Lost Ark.
We all have our version of “snakes”—the kind of threat that makes us want to turn back and give up on ourselves, our goal, or both. In truth, these threats can be large or small.
There is a difference between a challenge and an obstacle. A challenge is a test, or trial, that we may face over a period of time. Like learning a new language. In this way, meeting a challenge can be fun, even if a bit frustrating at first.
Obstacles, however, are drawbacks, problems, or difficulties. They can seem to come out of nowhere—entirely unpredictable. We can become alarmed, shocked, or surprised when we first encounter them.
For example, George Lucas’ first StarWars film was met with many problems during production, including bad weather conditions, malfunctioning equipment, and actors getting ill on the set. None of this was predictable. You can bet that there was probably talk about giving it all up.
How do we deal with an obstacle? By recognizing it’s a normal event. Everyone has obstacles. They are a natural consequence of advancing toward a goal that is important to you. Remember, almost every obstacle seems insurmountable the moment it appears. That’s what makes it a true obstacle! if you look into the lives of people whom you consider to be masters, you’ll discover that they had many, many obstacles on the road to their goals. Meeting each goal and doing what you can in the moment, without becoming overwhelmed by thoughts of the future, will shape you into a master as well.
If obstacles are wearing you out, please call me at 402-890-5741 and let’s have a conversation.
Until next time….go make it happen.
