Beyond The Barrier
How obstacles become opportunities for growth.
It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light. ~Aristotle
Don’t we typically view obstacles as obstacles to overcome, circumvent, or eliminate? Yet the wisdom of the Zen Buddhist teaching, “The obstacle is the path,” invites us to re-examine our relationship with these barriers.
The teaching has come alive for me amid struggles. When faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles, I’ve caught myself instinctively pushing myself and flowing with them. Many experiences, though challenging, have taught me invaluable lessons. But at times, I have missed the opportunities for growth and transformation. One particular experience I encountered in my career was a project. The project I poured my heart and soul into was suddenly put on hold due to circumstances beyond my control. Initially, I felt frustrated, but as I reflected on this teaching, I began to see the obstacles as an integral part of my journey.
In the teachings of “The obstacle is the path,” I've found that the most intimidating barriers often reside not in external circumstances but in the depths of our thoughts and perceptions. These internal obstacles can disguise themselves as external challenges, leading us to believe that our struggles originate from outside forces. Self-doubt, fear, and limiting beliefs can become unbeatable obstacles, hindering our growth. By acknowledging and confronting our internal obstacles, we can reframe our mindset, cultivating self-awareness and compassion. We can discover that the obstacle that once confined us became the stepping stone to liberation.
When we have setbacks, we need to re-evaluate our priorities, values and mindset. We need to find alternative paths and creative solutions, and most of all, we need to cultivate a mindful presence in the face of uncertainty. Life constantly presents us with alternatives.
How an obstacle disguises itself
Projection: Attributing our fears, doubts, or biases to others, convinced that they are the problem. An example is “My boss is holding me back,” when self-doubt hinders our confidence.
Externalization: We blame external circumstances for our own emotional or mental states. For example, “this city is so stressful.” When, in fact, our thoughts and priorities are causing anxiety.
Victim Mentality: We perceive ourselves as helpless, believing external events control our lives. For example, “I’m stuck in this job because of the economy.” When internally, fear of change or uncertainty is holding us back.
Rationalization: We justify our limitations or lack of effort by citing external obstacles. For example, “I want to start my own business, but the market is too competitive.” When internally, fear of failure or risk is the actual barrier.
The universe presents challenges to refine our character, foster resilience, and illuminate our strengths. In this light, life’s events become growth opportunities, urging us to confront our fears, biases, and limitations.
I’ve come to realize that obstacles are hidden blessings. This understanding has profound implications for daily life. There are no coincidences. We’ve all been there.
Stop complaining
Faced with an obstacle, our initial response is often frustration, anger, or disappointment. Complaining seems like a natural outlet for our emotions. However, this reaction not only fails to resolve the issue but also creates additional barriers to growth.
When we complain about obstacles, we reinforce negativity by focusing on amplifying our negative emotions. Complaining drains our mental and emotional resources. A complaining mindset repels potential help and support. It’s navigating upstream, very tiring.
I believe there is a blueprint for why things happen the way they do—mystical guidance in each moment. A job loss might lead to a new career path. A traffic jam is an opportunity to practice patience and meditation. A problematic conversation becomes a chance to hone empathy and communication skills. The illness or injury becomes a teacher for self-care and compassion.
“The obstacle is the path” reminds me that life’s challenges are not separate from our journey; they are the journey. Each obstacle presents a unique invitation, a hidden pathway to learn, evolve, and deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world.
In embracing this wisdom, I am clear that obstacles lose their power to intimidate and frustrate. Instead, they become a guiding light on the path to greater awareness, understanding, and inner peace.
The ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus said, “The only thing that is constant is change.” Change, though unpredictable, has the potential for protection, growth, and transformation.
Putting “The obstacles in the path” into mindfulness practice:
Special thanks to Palouse Mindfulness and Hankins Song for creating this transformative video, featured in my MIndfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course. Discover how to convert obstacles into opportunities for peace.
May the flow be with you now and always! 🙏🏽
With love,
Yoli
Thank you for sharing this, Yolanda. Many obstacles reflect our fear and resistance toward change. We are just not aware of this connection.
Yoli - many thanks for this profound and inspiring message. I feel totally receptive to these suggestions, and look forward to trying to embrace them and implement them in my life. Wonderful post!