Overcoming obstacles on the road to success can seem overwhelming. Here are some quick tips to help you figure out what to do next...
Every now and again, as we work to make our dreams come true, we will find ourselves tired, stuck, and trapped. We'll feel as if we've painted ourselves into a corner and not know how to get out and get moving.

If you reach point where you feel like you're stuck and nothing you do seems to be working, consider the following points:

THINK POSITIVE

The road to success is not always smooth. In fact, it rarely is. You will face challenges, but with effort and dedication, you can surmount them. Staying positive and upbeat will help you reach your goal.

IDENTIFY & CHANGE WHAT'S NOT WORKING

Yes, I know, I know: If you knew what wasn't working you wouldn't be stuck. I find that, all too often, the truth is we just haven't examined the situation as extensively as necessary to pinpoint the trouble spots.

Even if you're 100% sure that you don't know what the problem is, check for "blind spots" by reviewing these three items:

YOUR PLAN

Is there another step you need to take? More information you need to get? Additional help you must have? Do you need more time to complete this plan than you've given yourself?

YOUR PRIORITIES

Are you trying to do too many projects at once? Are you working on a want before all of your needs are met? Is there another project that must be completed before you can finish this one?

YOUR GOAL

Is this something that you really want? Is making this desire a reality really important to you? Is it something that YOU want or something you were doing for someone else?

ASK FOR HELP

Whether from pride or mere stubbornness, many people take longer than planned to reach their goals simply because they refuse to ask for help when they need it.

Often we're surrounded by brilliant, successful people who are more than willing to assist us -- if we just let them know we could use a hand. If you're not sure who to turn to, consider the following list of potential resources:

Family/Friends Clergy/Church Therapist/Counselor Psychiatrist/Psychologist Coach Organizer Image consultant Business consultant Financial advisor Debt Counselor

DO ANYTHING

Really. Any action is better than no action -- when you have absolutely no idea what to do next.

Trust your instincts, go with that gut feeling. If you're wrong, you can change your plan. If you're right, you've maintained your momentum and kept moving towards your goals.

(And I'll let you in on a little secret: most of the time, you'll be right!)

KEEP ON TRUCKIN'

Don't succumb to the inertia problems bring with them. When nothing seems to be working is exactly when you have to work harder.

Pause long enough to evaluate what you're doing and what you are going to do, but keep working towards your goal. If you do, you will reach it. Maybe not on the same schedule, maybe not exactly as planned, but you will get there! _____

Jim Allen, The Big Idea Coach