THE OBSTACLES

Seeking a better understanding of purpose, the obstacles that prevent achievement, and the endeavor to pursue one's calling regardless of limitations.

Obstacle One:

THE BELIEF THAT ONE’S DREAMS ARE IMPOSSIBLE

I grew up believing that anything was possible, and yet as I get older, I realize more and more things are beyond my reach. Comparison and competition have been both a hindrance and sometimes an impossible standard.  It sometimes seems easier to believe the dream is impossible, so when I fizzle out or lose momentum, I can blame the failure on something other than myself.  The obstacle is overcome when I accept the setbacks and disappointment and keep moving forward, even if progress is slow.  The greater things in life have not happened in an instant, but have been built over time. 

Obstacle Two:

THE INTERFERENCE OF LOVE

For years, I had diminished myself to fit in, to the point where I hardly recognized myself. I have learned that part of life is recognizing when to let some people go. Those who want me to succeed, who love me and care about me reaching my dreams, will still be there even if I have to separate myself for a while. Life is too short to worry about the people who do not support me. Dreams are not supposed to be easy or convenient.  They are to be worked out, demand sacrifice, and require dedication.  Even those with good intentions cause a disruption and it is wise to recognize when to lean into relationships and when to step back.

Obstacle One:

THE FEAR OF FAILURE

I fear giving up before I have really tried. I fear declaring I will be an author, only to see it not happen. I am afraid of failing. To me, failure means another dead end. Another path challenged, another miscalculation, another calling misunderstood. Failing means I have wasted my time. Failing is giving up before I have really tried. But failure is part of the process of success. It is not the end nor only the beginning. Failure will be an ever-present cloud looming, shadowing whatever I do, but I have to still work at my dream despite the fear.

Obstacle One:

THE FEAR OF SUCCESS

I can envision my life after becoming a published author; I can almost reach it. But sometimes I pull myself back, and for what? So I can fit in, so my dream can be manageable for others. I fear the success will change and turn me into something I am not. Or something worse—people I have known will value me only when my dream appears to be successful. But there does not have to be only one definition of success.  Success can take many different forms, so instead of living in fear of failure or success, I should continue to grow, focusing on my “personal legend” and what may follow.