Positive Attitude Information

3 Ways to Change Roadblocks into Valuable Tools


Our initial reaction when hitting a setback or a "roadblock, whether it be during an important project or even just trying to finish a task, is usually one of frustration or the thoughts of "Why does this always happen to me?" or "why doesn't anything ever work for me?". Roadblocks can be valuable though. Here's how:

  • Roadblocks can be an indication that we need to stop and take a step back in order to look at the big picture. Take the time to re-affirm the original goal and see if you're still on the right track or if you've somehow gone down a path you never intended to in the first place. Sometimes, we get so caught up in dealing with the day to day issues that we don't realize that we are now suddenly somewhere we didn't plan on going. Take the time to re-focus on where you want to go and you may find that you've just saved yourself a lot of time and trouble on something you don't want to be involved with anyway.
  • Roadblocks can also be an excellent opportunity to brainstorm. Maybe when the plan was created in the beginning, all of the potential options weren't considered. There may be far more efficient or cost effective opportunities available if you take the time to do some research.

    For example: say you want to publish a "How to" book. You get it all set up and then find out that it's going to be too expensive to get it printed. You could just give up on the idea or you could brainstorm. For example:

    - could you create an e-book instead?

    - could you print it off yourself?

    - could you simply alter things to make it cheaper (ie. Less colour pictures, use only 2 colours, etc.)?

    - could you find a technical college which may be willing to do this cheaper as students would be working on it?

    - would it be better as a web site?

  • The benefits of brainstorming like this is you may figure out a far better idea than the one you had originally. You may end up really glad that you didn't go with the original plan.

  • Sometimes, running into roadblocks can also be a sign that you're drained and just need a break. You may find that after you've taken the time to re-charge your batteries and regained your enthusiasm, the roadblocks seem to just disappear on their own.
  • If you can think of your roadblocks as a challenge then you avoid falling into the victim trap. Your confidence to achieve your goal will increase as you know it can be done. You just need to figure out if there's a better way. Think of them as "silver linings" and you'll be amazed at what ideas you suddenly come up with. Your goal may suddenly become closer than you thought and be an even greater achievement and all because you knew a roadblock could be a really valuable tool. You just needed to know how to use them.

    Note: This article may be freely reproduced as long as the AUTHOR'S resource box at the bottom of this article is included and and all links must be Active/Linkable with no syntax changes.

    Catherine Pratt 2005

    For more articles and tips on how to build self confidence in your personal and work relationships, visit Life With Confidence


    MORE RESOURCES:

    Swartz Creek Crim trainer fights cancer with exercise, positive ...
    The Flint Journal - MLive.com, MI - Jul 4, 2008
    "The best thing if you're going through cancer or chemotherapy is to still be able to keep up a positive attitude," Luce said. "That's the best thing for ...


    Heart surgery pioneer with a positive attitude
    Harrow Observer, UK - Jul 3, 2008
    More than 300 people paid their respects at the funeral of the first West Indian man to receive a heart transplant. Carl Whittaker, of Capel Crescent, ...


    Steps to 'brilliant health': positive attitude
    The Oregonian - OregonLive.com, OR - Jul 1, 2008
    Positive emotions can boost the immune system, reduce pain, improve performance and make us instinctively take better care of ourselves, those who have ...


    HAULAGE: MATTEOLI TALKS OF SECTOR'S POSITIVE ATTITUDE
    Agenzia Giornalistica Italia, Italy - Jun 9, 2008
    (AGI) - Rome, 9 June - the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Altero Matteoli, appreciates the "positive attitude" of the haulage associations. ...


    Washington Post

    Iran Says Nuclear Policy Is Unchanged
    New York Times, United States - 4 hours ago
    It said Iran’s policy on negotiations over its nuclear program was to “find common ground through logical and constructive actions” and a “positive attitude ...
    Iran, China review N-talk trends PRESS TV
    all 998 news articles


    Lord of the dancehall: Capleton brings positive attitude on tour
    Boston Herald, United States - Jun 11, 2008
    By Chris Faraone It’s tough for outsiders to differentiate among dancehall reggae singers. But once you hear and see Capleton, you won’t confuse him with ...


    Positive attitude remains Anderson's biggest strength
    High Point Enterprise, NC - Jun 26, 2008
    BY ALLYSON BOND ARCHDALE - Melissa Anderson's outlook on life is encouraging, despite the hand she has been dealt. Welcome to the NEW High Point Enterprise ...


    GLSBG'S TOMORROW: City must create inviting business atmosphere
    Galesburg Register-Mail, IL - Jul 4, 2008
    Citizens need to take an active role in the future of Galesburg, give input to city officials and project a positive attitude about our community to ...


    A Positive Attitude is Vital for Success
    Fitcommerce - Jun 24, 2008
    One of the commonalities amongst the many people I meet on the road is the direct correlation between those that have a positive attitude and are successful ...


    Positive attitude more productive than complaining
    Franklin News Post, VA - Jun 25, 2008
    Rocky Mount Town Council member John Lester voiced some wise words when he recently urged fellow members to adopt a positive attitude toward the local ...
    Lester urges council to commit to improving town's economy Franklin News Post
    all 3 news articles

    Positive-Attitude - Google News

    home | site map
    © 2006