On today’s early-morning bike ride on the trail, I came across what was left of a downed tree. My horns went up immediately because the last time that happened to me many years ago, a bear was eating grub from the roots of the felled tree.
The downed tree was a temporary obstacle, but I just meandered around the carnage and continued on my journey. Last time I did not. The bear stopped me dead in my tracks and I high-tailed it back down the trail, unable to return for a little while because of the fear.
These decisions may have seemed obvious, but when it comes to other decisions in life they may not be as clear. I know when it comes to my writing, I’ve allowed obstacles — other people’s opinions, doubts, procrastination and a lack of confidence — to sidetrack my efforts. Projects get started and never get finished. Some never get started. I allow the obstacles to stop me dead in my tracks.
Those obstacles are really self-created….and so are the solutions. I can stop valuing other people’s opinions more than my own. I can believe in my experience, talents and abilities and just do the best I can, not expecting perfection.
What self-created obstacles stop you or slow you down? How can you overcome them? I’d really like to know.
When I get an idea, I write it down on a yellow legal pad, form a very rough draft, revise, then blog. I appreciate feedback, pro or con. Just keep writing and make it fun.