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Find your "why" despite the "why nots"

at rooh, we believe that clarity comes when we confront what’s holding us back.

"It makes a difference, doesn't it, whether we fence ourselves in, or whether we are fenced out by the barriers of others?”

E.M Forster

We all face barriers in life and on our journey to purpose — some are internal, some external, and others involve the skills we feel we lack. Recognizing these barriers is the first step to overcoming them, and at rooh, we believe that clarity comes when we confront what’s holding us back.

Overthinking, for example, can be a common internal barrier. While it’s a strength when used productively, overthinking can also trap you in analysis paralysis. When faced with too many options or endless scenarios, we often freeze, unable to take action.

Here are some common barriers we’ve taken particular note of, along with practical ways to overcome them:

Internal Barriers

These are often mental or emotional blocks we place on ourselves — like fear, doubt, or the need for perfection. Overthinking can heighten these internal barriers, leading to rumination and self-doubt.

How to Overcome:

  • Reframe Overthinking: Acknowledge that your overthinking is a form of care — you want to make the best decision. But set limits. Try using the "5-second rule" from Mel Robbins: after five seconds of indecision, take a small action to push through the mental block.

  • Daily Affirmations: Challenge negative self-talk with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of your strengths, not your limitations. Brené Brown’s work on imperfection can be a powerful reminder that flaws do not define us.

External Barriers

External barriers are often circumstances beyond your control — like financial constraints, time limitations, or even others’ expectations. These can feel overwhelming, but they’re also opportunities to build resilience.

How to Overcome:

  • Focus on What You Can Control: Even when external barriers seem insurmountable, there’s always something within your control. Create a list of small, actionable steps you can take toward your goal, even if it’s just one thing each day. David Allen’s Getting Things Done offers a great framework for breaking down large tasks.

  • Ask for Help: Whether it’s a friend, mentor, or coach, collaboration can ease external pressures. We often carry the weight alone, forgetting that others may have the insight or resources we could utilize along the way.

Skills-Based Barriers

Sometimes we feel stuck simply because we don’t have the knowledge or skills we think we need to move forward. This can lead to perfectionism or self-limiting beliefs that prevent action.

How to Overcome:

Your barriers aren’t here to stop you – they’re here to shape you. By identifying and understanding your internal, external, and skills-based obstacles, you can transform them into stepping stones toward your purpose.

Take a moment today to reflect: What barriers are in your way? How can you turn them into opportunities for growth? At rooh, we’re here to guide you toward clarity and help you break through the barriers that stand in your way which is why we’ve created this short reflection quiz to empower you in identifying your obstacles and taking small steps to move forward with confidence.

Remember: Your purpose is worth overcoming every barrier in your path. Embrace the journey and you’ll find strength in the process.

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