(Distinctions are subtleties of language that, when gotten, cause a shift in a belief, behavior, value or attitude.)


This is a simple distinction. Easy to implement with immediate payback.

A Barrier stops you permanently. You are a victim of it. Game over. Don’t even try. Example: You’re 49 years old, 4’11” and have always wanted to play in the NBA. Desire, effort, and assistance can’t overcome a barrier. Know thyself.

An Obstacle is a temporary setback. Over, under, around or through, there is a way. You may need to unlearn something! (Incorrect beliefs can be obstacles.) You may need assistance. You may need to let go of an outcome you have been headed toward in order to focus energy on the outcome the obstacle currently blocks.

The simplicity of this Distinction is in self-awareness. Only let real barriers be barriers. If they are, move on.

The trick is to never let an obstacle masquerade as a barrier. Many people bump into an obstacle, think it’s a barrier and quit. They don’t even try.

A really good technique is to focus on the outcome you want rather than the obstacle. Focusing on the outcome surfaces solutions, sometimes almost magical solutions.


Coaching Point: What’s an obstacle in your life right now?


Copyright 2024 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.