Have you ever noticed that the closer you get to something you want, the more obstacles start showing up? Obstacles that distract you, that bring up old ways of thinking or behaving, that leave you wondering if you’re on the right path?
We are all on a journey. We have different destinations and different detours, but we are all going somewhere. Some of us stop for a while and enjoy the scenery, either afraid to move forward, or maybe too tired to take anything else in. Some of us trudge ahead, excited by what’s next and ready to take on any challenges that come our way. But here we all are along for the ride.
There are as many ways of being on that journey as there are journeys.
But the one thing I know for sure is the importance of our WHY. Why are we on this journey? What are we hoping is at the end of it? And how will our lives be different as a result? Answer these questions and they will keep you going, despite the most challenging of obstacles.
When we don’t have a grasp of these vital pieces of information, it’s easy to get side-tracked on the journey. If we don’t know why we want what’s at the end, it’s easy to give up at the first sign of resistance. But if we are firm in our resolve, deeply knowing that what waits for us is truly aligned with who we are and what we stand for and will benefit not only us but others in our path, we can see the obstacles for what they truly are…tests!
We tell the universe what we want, setting our intention. Then the universe conspires to get us there. But there are also a lot of unconscious thoughts and old patterns lurking under the surface, designed to help you truly know who you are and what you want. They present themselves as obstacles, testing your resolve and continuing to challenge how important this journey really is for you.
“Do you REALLY want this” the universe asks. “Let’s see how badly you really want it.” Enter in the obstacles, the tests, the distractions, the “I can’t-s,” the melt downs, and breakdowns. How you deal with these are actually much more telling than any other part of the journey. They speak to your character, your intention, and your why.
Know that the obstacles are indicators that you are getting close. So if you give up now, you’ll miss the miracle. What journey are you struggling with right now? What obstacles are coming up for you and how are you handling them? Learn to embrace all parts of the journey and you’re going to get there!
Photo by William Warby