When confronted with challenges, it’s easy to become a overwhelmed, especially when the circumstances are unfamiliar and seem threatening.
However, no matter what life throws your way, keep in mind that there are always options—there are always things you can do, actions you can take, and decisions you can make that will keep you moving in the right direction.
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Step Back Emotionally
When unexpected obstacles suddenly arise, it’s often easy to react emotionally. However, emotional reactions are often counter-productive. Instead, we must learn to step back from our emotions and see the situation from an external perspective — I call this “rising above the maze”.
It’s only when we choose to stay calm and collected, that we eventually grasp our circumstances from an intellectual perspective. We then begin to identify the true relevance and significance of the events that have taken place.
Understand How Your Brain Processes What’s Going On
Gain Necessary Resources and Support
At times, we simply do not have the necessary resources to deal with the situation at-hand. In such instances, we must question what pieces of the puzzle are missing, and then look for the necessary tools to make everything whole.
Acquire Different Perspective
Sometimes obstacles are only as real as we make them out to be. Often, obstacles are simply misunderstandings we have about circumstances. Other times, obstacles are only as real as the assumptions that are clouding our vision.
To begin shifting your perspective, start by viewing your predicament from another person’s perspective. Alternatively, you can use a plethora of framing and reframing techniques that will help you shift how you think about your predicament.
Seek Guidance
Often the answers we need can be found when we take the time to talk to other people. In fact, it’s likely many people have already dealt with and successfully overcome the circumstances you find yourself in.
Just Take a Breath
When you’re up against it, take a few moments to breathe deeply and ask yourself the following set of questions:
- What is it that I control?
- What is it that I don’t control?
- How can I gain control over these circumstances?
- If I cannot gain control, then how can I influence these circumstances?
- If I cannot influence them, then maybe I am not seeing things clearly. Where must I look for more information?
- How could I view this situation differently that would be more helpful and provide me with options?
By asking and then taking action on these questions, you will gain some semblance of control over your circumstances. From that point, you can start to move forward again.
Continue with more ideas for overcoming obstacles >>