The 365 Commitment

Day 98 – Obstacles

It would be awesome if the path ahead of us was a clear, straight path with absolute visibility to the end goal. I think we all want that. We all get discontent when the path takes a curve, a deep fog sets in, or an obstacle is placed in our path.

I have noticed that it is the IDEA of an obstacle that really gets in our way, not the obstacle itself. Let me give you an example. Lets say you are thinking of taking a backpacking trip in the Sierras. You start planning your hike and then someone tells you that you will need to get a Bear canister because there is a lot of Bear activity this year. Then someone tells you that the late Spring snow fall is causing the conditions to be really wet and in some cases ice may still exist on the trail. Then you hear that a permit is required and that you have to register in advance. Then you find out that there was fire on one part of the trail and their could be some debris or mud on the trails.

So here you are in the warm comfort of your home thinking about all these obstacles on that path that you would like to take. This will cause you to procrastinate your decision to get on the trail, because you are worried about the IDEA of the obstacles, not the actual obstacles themselves. Now, there is no doubt that you need to be prepared for potential obstacles. Go buy that bear can, get that permit, bring the necessary gear to handle ice but realize this important fact. When you actually get on the trail the actual obstacles are not going to be that bad at all.

You will just climb over that tree. You will put your food in a bear canister and never see a bear. You will discover very little snow or ice. Your shoes will get a little wet, but you will find comfort in that extra pair of socks. You will have forgotten the bug repellent, and the mosquitoes will be annoying, but you will figure out a way around that. You will be on the path, and you will overcome the obstacles as they come. The problem in life is that most of us are paralyzed by the idea of the obstacles on the path, and we never actually get on the path.

What perceived obstacle is stopping you from starting your journey? Add that to your 365 List.

Guy Reams (98)
365 Member

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