With every goal or accomplishment comes barriers that need to be broken through. In fact, the presence of barriers is often proof that what you’re striving for is truly worth the effort. While they can be the most discouraging part of your journey, barriers are opportunities to grow and adapt, helping you evolve into a better version of yourself. Let’s explore how to overcome even the most challenging obstacles.
Clarity Through Reflection
Imagine you’re facing a difficult math problem. The solution rarely comes by just thinking it through in your head. Instead, you follow a process: writing down steps, organizing your thoughts and methodically solving the problem. Barriers in life are no different. Writing down the barrier or problem can help you approach the situation logically, rather than emotionally, and help you keep the facts in order.
Identify the Root Cause
The initial reason for not overcoming a barrier isn’t always the true root cause. Sometimes asking yourself “why” can uncover solutions you hadn’t considered. For example, instead of saying “I don’t have time to work out,” try asking yourself, “Why don’t I have time to work out?” This may reveal poor time management or a lack of prioritization. The answer won’t always be clear immediately, but as you become more proactive in searching for the root cause, you’ll sharpen your self-awareness, making it easier to overcome future barriers.
Strong Foundation of Support
The greatest accomplishments are rarely achieved alone. Having the proper support is paramount in your mission to break through barriers. No achievement worth having comes easily. When times get tough, having individuals who add value to your journey — through encouragement or accountability — can make all the difference. As the saying goes, we tend to become the average of the people we spend the most time with. If strength is what you aspire to throughout your journey, strong foundations of support should be non-negotiable.
Transform Obstacles into Goals
Our words are among the most powerful tools we’ll ever wield, especially when examining ourselves. The way you speak about challenges can vastly affect your outlook and ultimately the outcome. Below are examples of how negative self-talk can be transformed into positive statements, making it more likely for you to overcome the barrier.
- “I don’t have time to workout”
- “I know exercise improves my health and quality of life, and I will make the time to do what I can, even if it’s just for 10 minutes”
- “I’m too tired after work to exercise”
- “I’m going to work out in the morning to avoid the evening fatigue”
- “It’s hard to eat healthy because of my kids”
- “I want to teach my kids healthy habits, so they succeed in their health later in life”
Breaking through barriers starts with clarity, honesty and the right mindset. Writing down obstacles makes them manageable, identifying root causes exposes real solutions, seeking strong foundations of support protects you during vulnerable times and reframing challenges as goals empowers you to take meaningful action. Look at barriers as steppingstones rather than roadblocks. By having a plan of action for them, you’ll ensure you break through each time.
By: Davon Randolph
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