Obstacles are Merely Opportunities in Disguise

There are so many obstacles in life.

Obstacles are opportunities.

But it takes a certain kind of mindset and mentality to realize that obstacles are opportunities.

5 Years ago I read a book called Getting Undressed: From Paralysis to Purpose by David Cooks Speaks, MBA.

David had obstacles in his life. As a teenager, he went from being a healthy athlete to being in a wheelchair quite suddenly.

As the title of the book suggests, he literally had to figure out and relearn how to get undressed (and dressed) with this new reality...

I had the great opportunity to meet David while I was in high school, stay connected with him, and even was interviewed on his podcast years later.

And during that interview, he asked me what my biggest takeaway was from his story and book.

The biggest lesson for me was --> obstacles are opportunities. 

For many of us, myself included, obstacles are viewed simply as obstacles - a challenge, a barrier to what we want or what we are yearning to achieve. Sometimes we view obstacles as obstacles because we have a 'poor me' mentality.

But let me tell you. 

After reading David's book, it is hard fathom not having a more opportunistic and positive view even when things become extremely challenging.

Repeatedly, David was able to have a mindset and outlook that the obstacles that come his way throughout life are merely opportunities. The obstacles and challenges he has faced make him who he is today, have led him to a life's purpose, and have also brought other good and fulfilling opportunities.

If you get chance, go ahead and find his book and give it a read. 

If you are/were a basketball player or athlete I think you will relate to the book.

And when life's obstacles come your way, try to remember that they truly are opportunities. 

It doesn't mean that the obstacles won't be hard. 

It doesn't mean that the obstacles won't beat you down. 

It doesn't mean that the obstacles become any easier.

What they do is change who you are, help you grow, and always brings about a new personal perspective. 

Week 41 of 52