How to stop getting in your own way

The second you stop second guessing every decision you make will be one of the most freeing days mentally and emotionally for you. There are many aspects of your life that get in the way either physically or situationally, but one of the biggest things and the only one we can ultimately control, is ourselves. It is normal to every once in a while feel as though you are stuck, but it is what we do in those moments of weakness that determine what kind of future we will have.

Below are some tips and tricks that have helped me in the past and continue to help me shape my future:

1. Identify Your Biggest Weaknesses If you know your weaknesses, it will make you more self aware of the things that you can improve about yourself. Everyone has weaknesses so don't take that as you are a mess of a human; I am actually saying the direct opposite. If you are self-aware and know what you can work on either socially or personally, it can make you improve those weaknesses as well as maybe increase your likelihood of reaching your goals faster.

2. Stop Doubting Yourself I know it is hard to let go of all the anxieties, self-doubt, sadness and things that make us think we are not good enough, but I am proud of you nonetheless for continuously trying despite it all. If you want a goal, go for it and don't look back. If you have a passion, follow it because you don't want to look back in a couple of years and regret not going for it. Self doubt will inevitably be the end of your dreams if you let it consume you every day, so don't let it! Don't let yourself down; be relentless in your pursuit of happiness.

3. Rejection is just Redirection Everything happens for a reason, and shitty things happen sometimes without a reason. When bad things occur or when people lash out, I always try to tell myself that rejection is just a different way to present redirection. Has a relationship ever ended for you and something better came along after? For many that is the case. If someone said they didn't want you to be in their life anymore then that is your opportunity to decide you deserve something more or someone better. If you get fired or laid off, something better is likely coming your way. If you consciously try to reframe into the rejection is just redirection mindset, things will seem less catastrophic and more intentional.

4. Treat Everyone with Respect Treat everyone the way you would want to be treated despite their social or monetary status. I would hope that you already do this, but if you don't, change. I noticed I am happier the nicer I treat others around me by giving back or being intentional about making someone's day better.

5. Stop Settling for Temporary Happiness Stop letting temporary people, situations, jobs, etc. have lasting impacts on your happiness. If you know deep down that the people or job around you is hurting your long term goals or happiness, then you need to change something in your life before it sets you back. Temporary things and people will not make you happier in the long run, I promise you it will hurt you more than help. It's simple: stop watering weeds, what you water grows.

6. Do Something Small Everyday If you feel overwhelmed by your task list, just go one step at a time. Rome wasn't built in a day and it is the same concept for your goals and dreams. It is millions of small intentional decisions that align with your goals that will make them come true. Make sure you are always consciously making decisions that are pushing you in the direction that past you would be proud of and future you is grateful for.

7. Get Out of Your Comfort Zone The opportunity wouldn't come your way if you weren't ready for it. Actively try to do small or big things out of your comfort zone because it is in those moments that you really grow. Don't hold onto familiarity just because it is comfortable. If you want something, go for it because you don't know how long it'll be until the chance disappears.