I’ve heard that when you get close to something you’ve wanted and worked toward for a long time, you’re met with a series of challenges and obstacles. Sometimes these also come after you get what you wanted. You might start second guessing yourself, wondering if you made a mistake, and fearing that it won’t work out. I’ve experienced all of that lately, so I’d like to talk a bit about it.
The Alchemist talks a lot about running into obstacles as you approach your goals, which is probably why I’ve had this in the back of my head since I read the book earlier this year. However, I suppose I’ve known about this concept since I first listened to The Power of Now back in 2017. Eckhart Tolle mentioned that our minds would still look for problems even if we were in paradise. I’ve thought about this quite a bit when I catch myself reacting with concern to my changing life situation. When that happens, I remind myself that this is what I wanted, think about how much I’m enjoying the journey, and try to live more in the present moment instead of dreading the future or longing for the past.
A big part of my struggle has come from entering new territory and not knowing which way is up anymore. Some things that were familiar (and sometimes comfortable) are going away and a lot of new things are taking their place. I’m sure I’ll get used to these changes soon enough, but the transition has been difficult. For example, I used to have two days off a week, but since I’ve been working two jobs for a while now, I went a few weeks straight with no days off. I wouldn’t have had any days off for about a month if I hadn’t taken some time off for Floor Divided, and my next day off won’t occur until I leave my old job next week. All of this means that I’ve had to shift a lot of things around in my schedule, make sure I have plenty of time to recharge, and go easy on myself by saying no to some things I would have liked to do. Although it’s been difficult at times, it’s been well worth it.
As I’ve faced these challenges, I’ve tried to keep in mind that they’re temporary parts of my journey. The challenges often feel like tests designed to see if really want what I’ve been pursuing. I’m better able to handle them when I think about them this way, especially if I start as soon as I first notice the challenges appear. Remembering the treasures to be found on the other side of the trials keeps me motivated to continue until I’ve made it to my destination. If what I’ve found so far is any indication of what’s to come, then I’m so glad I started down this path and I’m excited to continue sharing what I find along the way.