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filler@godaddy.com
A seemingly banal question but in essence obstacles are huge and can be as varied as ‘simply a question of attitude’, a misinterpretation, a fear of the unknown, a negative perception that needs rebalancing, and so much more – but collectively obstacles are essentially blockages in life that prevent progression.
The real question is, as you know, and the reason that you’re here:
How do we overcome our obstacles?
Before we address how to approach our obstacles, we should recognise the scale and importance of these in life, in business, in relationships because, left unchecked they can become toxic and have a hugely negative impact upon yourself and your business. Simply ignored, there is only one outcome, failure. Overcoming obstacles is the responsibility and focus of a good company director. But, that doesn’t mean that they need to have all the answers all the time. A good director will reach out for help to get the right answers when they’re struggling. After all we can’t all know everything about every facet of industry, why not consult specialists to help in areas of their expertise?
What effects do unchecked obstacles have upon us?
A small obstacle in business such as, an unhappy client, a failed order or an absent colleague we deal with efficiently because these are part of your day to day work experience, but an unexpected obstacle, something wholly unfamiliar can catch us off guard and create mayhem. Imagine that you’re suddenly faced with a situation new to you that could potentially undermine your established business. Now throw into the equation a staffing crisis and a personal family issue… you’ve got creditors chasing you and you’re at your whit’s end. How you respond is crucial on so many levels. You know that you can’t ignore any of these obstacles, after all, they all deserve your attention, but sometimes these things can become overwhelming. At this point what’s needed is clarity.
Control the controllables. Ok, there's no such word as controllables .. but you know what I mean. You have a desk full of obstacles … the mere idea of them is weighing heavy on you and you’re not sure where to start? Often at this point we prevaricate, we seek banal tasks to avoid facing the real issues. So, how do you start?
The obstacles that are familiar, you know that you can deal with these, do them, or at least set in motion the processes to manage them. This way you have immediately lightened your load. Next, focus upon and if it helps, write down the obstacles that are overwhelming. This simple practice allows clarity – you begin to form a clearer image of what lies before you. Now you need to take that information and consider whether you have the experience and or knowledge to address the obstacle.
This is where clarity meets honesty. Factors such as ego, finance and expectation can easily come into play. Remember the goal here, it’s to successfully navigate your way around an obstacle to the collective benefit of your business and staff (and personal wellbeing).
At this point – if you need help – REACH OUT.
A little aside, in certain circumstances it’s possible to invert the negative spectre of an obstacle and turn it into an opportunity … but that's for another day.
If you would like to discuss this or any other aspect shared, please schedule a call or email directly