Dream: Facing Inevitable Obstacles
Any time you want to make a change in your life, be prepared for obstacles of all kinds. Below are five that come from outside of yourself.
Each boulder that appears on your path needs to be faced. And God stands ready to help you persevere when you ask Him for wisdom and courage.If He has given you your dream, He will lead you forward step by step.
ANALYZE EXTERNAL OBSTACLES:
1. Time: I'm already running like crazy. I don't have time to explore this. Look at your priorities. Do a daily, weekly, monthly analysis. Could you fit in an evening, lunchtime, or Saturday morning to pursue your dream?
2. Money: I have no extra money to do what I'm passionate about. Analyze your budget, reprioritize your spending. Assign a set amount each month to finance meeting your goal.
3. Family: My husband, kids, mother, siblings--won't let me! Explain your passion is necessary self-care. You need it. You want their support. You want to care for them. BUT you must also care for yourself emotionally and in other ways.
4. Health and Age: Work on taking care of yourself physically, but look for ways to step toward your dream as you can. Invite others to your home, use the phone or internet to encourage or advocate for others. Take courses online and learn, no matter what your age or stage in life. Be willing to accept help and pray to inspire others as they see your commitment to your dream.
5. Criticism: Expect it! Some will tell you to be satisfied with your life, even if you're not. Others might say you are neglecting your responsibilities. You can't do it. You shouldn't do it. They wouldn't do it! What does your heart say? What does your head say? What does God say in His Word?What is His message to you about the timing, the cost personally, the adjustments required in your family's schedule? Listen for His voice and His peace in your heart.
Want Biblical guidance? Here are some wise words to take to heart:
Proverbs 19: 2. It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way.
Proverbs 19: 8. He who gets wisdom loves his own soul; he who cherishes understanding prospers.
Proverbs 19: Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails.
Poppy
To reach me regarding my availability to speak on this topic or others, contact me at: www.poppysmith.com