Has a mental block ever made you feel frustrated or stuck?
This happens to the best of us, especially during times of change or uncertainty. The truth is, the way we respond to 'life' greatly determines our success, or lack thereof. So in this article, we're sharing 7 strategies to overcome any mental roadblocks that may appear in your path!
When our problems seem unsolvable or the only solutions inadequate, taking time to strategically remove any mental blocks can help us to successfully move forward with confidence.
Clear your mind of can't. Samuel Johnson
There are many types of mental blocks, most fit into the following categories:
Emotions: Emotional blocks can include anything from a fear of risk-taking to a tendency to judge or approach the problem with a negative attitude.
Distractions: Too much information, irrelevant information, or environmental distractions can prevent us from concentrating on the important issues.
Assumptions: If we assume there is only one correct solution, we will be unable to generate additional ideas.
Communications: If we cannot communicate our ideas in an effective way our progress of generating new ideas can become hampered.
Here are some examples of mental blocks:
Emotional: Iâll lose my job if I try that.
Distraction: The room is too noisy.
Assumption: There is only one right answer or way to use an object.
Communication: I'm frustrated because they do not understand my idea.
So, what do you do when you identify a mental block?
Be Positive: List the positive aspects or possible outcomes of the problem. Remember that problems can also opportunities for improvement.
Define the Risk: Identify the worst possible outcome and what options remain in that scenario.
Think Outside the Box: When rules create an unnecessary imaginary boundary, they must be disregarded so that we can develop innovative solutions.
Meditate: Quiet your mind of all of your responsibilities and distractions. Listening to music can sometimes be relaxing.
Write in a Journal: When you write it does not have to be about the specific problem you need to solve. However, you may discover some mental blocks if you do write about the problem. Dump all of your mental clutter that no one will ever see (unless you want them to). Then let the pages and their recorded thoughts go, even if just in your mind.
Breathe Deeply: Especially when stressed, we tend to become shallow breathers. Practise deep breathing for 5 to 15 minutes for not only more creativity, but for a great burst of energy.
Encouraging Creativity: Go outside for a few minutes, especially for a nature walk or bike ride. Exercising and getting sunshine, even for just a few minutes are sure ways to redirect your brain to a more creative outlook.
Create the highest, grand vision possible for your life because you become what you believe. Oprah Winfrey
Over to You
Once you get your creative juices flowing, keep them going by trying the following ideas everyday:
Have something with you to record your ideas when they come. Ideas often come as you are drifting off to sleep or as you are waking.
Stretch your boundaries by posing new questions to yourself, learning things outside your specialty, or breaking up set patterns of doing things.
Be receptive to new, fragile ideas that may still need time to develop.
Be observant of details, including self-details.
Begin an enjoyable creative hobby.
Your Next Step
Would you like to improve your career and personal life with increased skills in identifying and overcoming your mental blocks?
Join us for an online introductory coaching strategy session where we can develop a plan together and get on track towards your ultimate success.
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