Maybe we want a good education but do not have the required resources. We may want a good job and career but cannot find or keep a job, Its possible that we want a relationship but cannot find the right person etc. Whatever our goal is we may run into obstacles and be unable to move forward towards achieving our dreams.

However, it is our perception of the obstacles or hurdles which arise that make a difference to our reaction. We may see the obstacle as a threat to our dream or plan. While others may view it as an opportunity to put in more efforts in order to succeed and grow. It is our analysis and outlook that has an impact on how we react to any impediments. If we view the obstacles as a means to failure, then we are more likely to be overcome with negative thoughts which lead to failure to achieve our goals. Our thoughts and related emotions can lead to demotivation, our loosing our passion to work towards achieving our goals. These perceptions can also stop us from trying to do so and also ultimately to giving up.

At times it is possible to overcome obstacles and sometimes it is not. We may have to find ways to work around them or look for alternative ways to achieve them. In all cases it is key not to give up without considering all possibilities if you encounter obstacles.

SOME SKILLS FOR CONSIDERATION OF OBSTACLES :

1. STOP : You can apply the STOP skill from Dialectical Behaviour Therapy. This stands for Stop, Take a step back, Observe, and Proceed mindfully. By practicing this skill you can impartially observe your reactions, calm your emotions, observe the obstacle impartially and then decide how to move forward.
2. Practice acceptance : Obstacles arise and have to be overcome while focusing on any goals. Be prepared to expect obstacles and also accept them as a challenge you have to overcome while pursuing goals. No one wants to face obstacles but the truth of the matter is that obstacles will arise some small and some big which may have to be overcome.
3. Learn to handle emotional responses : When encountering obstacles, take a break and let your emotions relax by soothing yourself. Then use your mind to think clearly, evaluate the repercussions and costs of pursuing the goal and on that basis make decisions. Be flexible, evaluate new information and consider alternative solutions before moving ahead.
4. Seek input and advice :  Getting information and guidance from other people can also be very valuable and helpful in overcoming obstacles. They may have personal experiences and knowledge and also know about resources that you do not. They may also come up with ideas which you did not think about. Further they may also see the world in a different perspective and come up with new viewpoints and solutions.
5. Set small achievable goals : Sometimes achieving your final goal can be difficult and overwhelming. Obstacles which arise can also be complex and difficult to overcome. It may be easier to break down goals in smaller steps to achieve them. By focusing on each step one at a time and achieving them you will remain focused and motivated and slowly move towards achieving the ultimate goal.   
6. Reassess and reconsider : Moving step by step also gives you the opportunity to reevaluate your goal or make any adjustments if you feel that is required. It is normal to start working towards a goal and then making changes in your plans as you progress and feel the need to do so. You may make additions to make your activities more relevant or reduce activities you do not find interesting.
7. Celebrate successes : Always remember to motivate yourself by recognizing your accomplishments. Make a point of celebrating successes. Doing so helps to stimulate you to focus on what you can accomplish and not be demotivated by any obstacles which may have arisen.

A question which may arise in your mind is – Why can I not go through life without facing obstacles ?  Some of the reasons why facing obstacles are important are that some challenges which come up in our life contribute to us getting to know our level of strength and capabilities. If you have any limitations those will come up and we can begin to take steps to overcome them. Obstacles exist to test us, so that we get to know how far we can go to reach our limits. Apart from that it is important to remember that obstacles help to :

• DIRECT OUR ACTIONS : When stumbling blocks arise in our path we need to know where to step and find a new way to move on to reach our next point. We may need to shift our perspective and review the lessons which those challenges have taught us. It is important to remember that every problem has a solution we just need to focus and find it.
• STRENGTHEN US : Some have a natural strength and ability to face challenges others have to develop it.  Resilience helps us to face obstacles and bounce back tougher and stronger. As long as we live, life will continue to throw challenges at us, which we need to deal with and overcome. As we overcome them our confidence increases and we move forward stronger and with more confidence.
• RELEASE CREATIVITY WITHIN US : The beauty of life is that we do not know how far our capabilities can take us until we meet a challenge. Without facing impediments, we may not venture onto unknown ground. It takes a lot of courage and persistence to push forward and move into unknown territory. Obstacles which need to be removed are capable of stretching our imagination and coming up with creative solutions which help us move forward and progress towards achieving our goals.
• FOCUS ON WHAT MATTERS : Everything in life may not be important, So it is necessary to identify and be very clear on your goals and focus on them accordingly. By doing so every obstacle which comes your way looks more manageable. It is when we lack direction that uncertainty comes up and we tend to make a mountain of every mole hill.  

The bottom line is that we need to be clear about our goals so that we can focus on overcoming any obstacles which may come up on the way of achieving them. No wonder Benjamin Franklin once affirmed that:

The things which hurt, instruct.

Once you can obtain clarity, explore, learn, and make progress in the direction of your goals.