3 Ways to Turn Obstacles Into Opportunities

Have you felt like you’ve been stretched this year? 

I know I have. 

Maybe you’ve felt challenged, defeated, reignited, inspired or maybe felt uncomfortable and leaned into topics or situations you otherwise wouldn’t have. 

Maybe this has been your best or even your worst year.  Heck, maybe it's been pretty average. 

Either way, here’s the truth.  

There's no denying that this is an unprecedented time. Things are continuing to shift and change right before us. 

But, what I know for sure is that some of our biggest growth opportunities can come through challenges or changes in perspective.  

I’m not saying it’s pretty or easy.  But is it worth it on the other side? I’d say yes.  

Here are 3 ways to turn obstacles into opportunities: 

1. Assess and acknowledge where you’re at 

 Take a look at what’s working really well right now.  We all have something. What are you loving? Where are you winning?  

It feels good to start by acknowledging all the good stuff, right? Maybe you tried something new, developed a new skill, or loving a new routine you’ve established. 

Maybe it’s landing a new client or an ‘aha’ breakthrough you were excited about.  We all have something good, even if it's simply feeling grateful for being alive. So, what is that for you? 

Next, take a look at your biggest challenge right now.  

What’s the obstacle you see in front of you?  Where are you stuck, or what’s not working anymore?  

Seriously, by taking the time to ask yourself these questions, you’re already leaps and bounds ahead of the game.  

Give it a try.  Assess where you’re at and see what comes up for you.

2. Brainstorm your next best step

You might not have the entire picture mapped out in front of you, yet, and that's ok.  But, if you were to think of doing just one thing, taking just one step that would make the biggest difference, what would that be? 

I love this part. 

Start brainstorming ideas and get clear on possible next steps.  

But here’s the key. Start by choosing just one.  

If you feel you need some outside perspective, consider asking a friend you trust, look for a supportive community, grab a book or watch a video on the topic, or ask a mentor, or google some possible solutions.  

You can google anything these days. 

Maybe something didn’t work out like you thought it would, or you’re having to pause or pivot.  Maybe you've experienced changes in your income or you’re looking to create more.  

You might be thinking to yourself, “how could this possibly be an opportunity?” 

Here’s something to remember.  

Some of our best ideas can come from times where we must get creative and think outside the box.  

What could I create or sell online? 

What could I invest in or get help with?

What could I fix, adjust, or upgrade? 

What could I start, or what could I do differently that would help things go in a different direction? 

Where is the opportunity for me?

Start brainstorming your next best step. Once you’ve identified what that is for you, jump in and do it.  Take the leap.  Don’t put it off, just start. 

3. Where Can You Level Up? 

Take inventory of all the talents, skills, and abilities you currently have right now.  Are you satisfied with where you're at or is there a possibility for growth in a certain area? 

Where can you level up right now?

For me, I knew I wanted to improve my speaking skills because speaking is a part of my business model. It’s useful in so many ways. 

It’s helpful when creating videos, and I knew I’d be doing a book tour, when my book comes out, so that includes lots of speaking and interviews. 

So, I joined a local Toastmasters club where I could meet new people and get working on that. 

I encourage you to think of one thing that you could level up in right now, that’s related to your biggest challenge or obstacle.

Where is the opportunity for you? 

Marketing? Relationships? Confidence? Income? Health? Business? etc.

It’s possible to turn obstacles into opportunities. 

Maybe what you need is momentum.  What’s one thing you could start, change, or do differently, to help things move forward today?