“If you’re going through hell, keep going.”
-Winston Churchill
I cannot tell you how many times this quote from Churchill has helped me get through some tough times. There are two reasons I’m using it for this topic today: 1) It’s one of my top favorites, and 2) it embodies everything I’m about to say in this post. But first and foremost, know that hitting a wall is a completely normal experience. Everyone at one point or another has hit a wall at least once in life.
Personally I have hit a wall many times in my life, including emotionally. All I can say is I really hate that feeling of frustration and complete discouragement. It’s like no matter what I do or how hard I try, I’m not making any progress and things keep going from bad to worse. Some areas I’ve hit a wall in are my career, my relationships, and often my personal goals. When that happens it makes me wonder why I even try.
Thankfully though I have a stubborn streak which I am very proud of. Because of it no matter how discouraged I get, I always manage to find a way to keep pushing through. I admit I don’t always make the best decisions in those circumstances, but one thing’s for sure I will do almost anything to shake off that feeling, get unstuck and move forward. I’m a strong believer in the saying: “where there’s a will, there’s a way.”
Over the years, these experiences have taught me that hitting a wall is very common and isn’t as bad as we think it is. It’s actually the meaning we give to it that makes all the difference. Instead of seeing it as an obstacle like I used to, I learned to view it as an opportunity to step back, reassess, and come up with a new approach. Sometimes when we’re too close to a problem, we can’t see it clearly. Stepping away for a bit – even if it’s to breathe – can be exactly what we need to help us find a solution or push through it.
Another thing I learned is that progress is not always linear. Setbacks are a natural part of the process. That’s why when you feel stuck you should not give up on your dreams. Don’t let the wall you’re facing defeat you. Sometimes you have to zigzag your way through. And if you can’t get through it, then get around it. Don’t wallow! Keep pushing forward and remember that each step you take, no matter how small, is bringing you closer to your goal. So stay determined, stay focused, and keep working towards the life you want to create. You’ve got this!
Love and determination,
/Carli