How to Get Out of Your Own Way
1. Face Facts: YOU may just be the bump in the road that's
slowing you down.
Often the most difficult step in getting out of one's own way is
recognizing that you are indeed, in it. When you encounter
problems in achieving your goals, carefully consider whether or
not you are the source of those problems.
2. You can do anything you want. However, you may not be able to
do everything you want.
Most of the time we get in our own ways by trying to do too much
all at once. By working hard at trying to do everything we end
up accomplishing very little. Concentrating on one or two
projects at a time will actually increase your chances getting
what you want.
3. To get a clear picture, you've got to focus.
Once you know which project(s) you will tackle, you must focus
on what it will take to really do those projects. Create
step-by-step plans for what you will do and when you will do
them.
4. If it's on paper, it's a plan. If it's in your head, it's a
dream.
Many are reluctant to actually put their plans down on paper.
Putting plans to paper is the first physical step to take
towards achieving one's desires. Without a written plan most
people will start a project but soon be distracted by the many
little things that pop up.
5. Just because you're moving doesn't mean you're getting ahead.
A sure sign of a person getting in their own way is when they
are working very hard, but not getting any closer to achieving
their goals. (This is also one of the most frequent effects of
not having a written plan.) To move forward you must take the
proper actions at the proper times.
6. Not choosing IS choosing.
Another roadblock we create is by over-thinking our options to
the point of inactivity. "I could do A, B, or C" we tell
ourselves. "I better think about it." Then we proceed to
ponder.... but we never actually decide. What we're really
doing, though, is deciding to do nothing. But guess what? If you
do nothing, you get nothing.
7. Concentrate on what will work.
Some people are very good at finding all of the reasons why
something *won't* work. So good that they talk themselves out of
even trying. Don't compound potential negatives, compound the
positives and concentrate on why things *will* work for you!
8. If it's not working, STOP DOING IT!
One definition of insanity reads: "Doing the same thing over and
over, but expecting a different result each time." I tend to
think of that more as a definition of *humanity.* Whether caused
by determination, pride, or mere stubbornness, many have trouble
recognizing and admitting that things aren't working. If that's
you, adopt a new motto: "Just don't do it!" When things stop
working, stop doing them, readjust, and move on.
9. When you just don't know, get help.
We can't know everything. We can't always solve everything. When
that's the case, get help. There are businesses, counselors,
consultants, and coaches who can work with you on almost any
trouble spot you may encounter. Use them.
10. If it doesn't make you happy, don't do it.
Working towards your goals may not always be easy. You may not
have fun every moment as you wend your way. Overall you should
be happy with what you are doing because it's what you want to
do. If that's not true then you definitely need to re-evaluate
your goals or how you are pursuing them.