There are those who view hardships as something to be avoided at all costs. When an obstacle pops up in their life, they seek a way to avoid it. They search for the easy way out, the path of least resistance, the route that promises the minimal amount of pain. However, while those who choose to live in this manner might manage to avoid difficulties and remain free from the agony that often accompanies such hardships, they are also among those who settle for much less than life really has to offer. Those who desire the most that life has to give know there is a price to be paid. Sport champions know that excellence in performance, along with its accompanying glory, requires hours of practice typically fraught with pain and suffering. |
They are willing to endure the hardship and pay that price because the desire for the prize is much greater than the desire for comfort. The same is true for those who desire greatness of any kind in their life. They know there is a process that enables them to move from where they are to where they want to be. Their vision is so clear and their desire to see that vision fulfilled so intense that momentary setbacks or temporary obstacles are never strong enough to dissuade them from the pursuit of that vision. They know the process will include adversity so they are not surprised, nor unprepared when it comes.
To enjoy success, one must be committed to view obstacles and hardships as stepping stones used to achieve an objective. When viewed in this manner, those adversities are welcomed, rather than avoided. They are perceived as opportunities for growth. The person pursuing their vision with vigor sees difficulties as doors through which they must pass on their way to the realization of their goal. The average achiever sees adversities as stumbling blocks while the over achiever treats them as stepping stones. This difference in attitude is one of the marks that differentiates the one who settles for mediocrity from the one who strives for excellence.
What are the obstacles that appear to be standing between you and the success you are currently pursuing? What will be the outcome if you choose to avoid the obstacles rather than face them and work through them? You might avoid some pain, discomfort or uncomfortableness. But at what price? If, instead, you squarely face the impending difficulties and work to remove the obstacles, what benefit will it provide in the quest of your vision? In what way will you be better by overcoming the hardship rather than by avoiding it?
If you don’t already do this, begin today to see obstacles as stepping stones. Understand that by crossing them, not only will you be closer to your goal, you will also be better off – stronger, more competent, more self-assured in knowing that no matter what hindrances might lie in wait – they will surely fall in the face of your conviction and resolve.
To enjoy success, one must be committed to view obstacles and hardships as stepping stones used to achieve an objective. When viewed in this manner, those adversities are welcomed, rather than avoided. They are perceived as opportunities for growth. The person pursuing their vision with vigor sees difficulties as doors through which they must pass on their way to the realization of their goal. The average achiever sees adversities as stumbling blocks while the over achiever treats them as stepping stones. This difference in attitude is one of the marks that differentiates the one who settles for mediocrity from the one who strives for excellence.
What are the obstacles that appear to be standing between you and the success you are currently pursuing? What will be the outcome if you choose to avoid the obstacles rather than face them and work through them? You might avoid some pain, discomfort or uncomfortableness. But at what price? If, instead, you squarely face the impending difficulties and work to remove the obstacles, what benefit will it provide in the quest of your vision? In what way will you be better by overcoming the hardship rather than by avoiding it?
If you don’t already do this, begin today to see obstacles as stepping stones. Understand that by crossing them, not only will you be closer to your goal, you will also be better off – stronger, more competent, more self-assured in knowing that no matter what hindrances might lie in wait – they will surely fall in the face of your conviction and resolve.