Purpose Obstacles: Get around them. Go through them

1.???? Perceived and actual obstacles: More than excuses

The last several editions of Three on Purpose explored the possibility of a more purposeful life. We examined how to define our purpose and tie our talent and passion to creating a positive impact. It's all great.

In theory.

But how do you overcome all the barriers that stand in your way? You know - work, kids, lack of time, lack of health, lack of clarity, too many passions, too little time.

I have been delivering several keynotes and talks this month, and speaking to people, I heard them all. People genuinely want to find purpose in life and work, but life and work usually get in the way. For some, it is something small that they can work on. For others, it resembles a mountain.

Sometimes, these barriers are based on misconceptions. Several years ago, we studied why some people didn't volunteer. One woman said in a focus group: "I don't volunteer because I don't have four weekly hours to give". Others said they couldn't volunteer because they wanted to travel occasionally.

These misconceptions about what volunteering is and what it takes prevented them from participating. Instead, they could have done it for a limited time. It is better to do something than to do nothing.

2.???? The yummy benefits of barriers

When considering the barriers stopping you from achieving a more purposeful life, it is critical to reflect on their benefits. I had a great conversation with Anna S. , founder of Bambuddha Group , about people who find it hard to let go of being a victim. "The issue is," I said, "there are also benefits to it, and people find it hard to let go of them sometimes". "Oh, it's delicious", she answered.

In yoga, there is the practice of "releasing what doesn't serve you". It took me a while to fully comprehend the meaning of it. We hold on to many things that do not serve us and sabotage our journey. Anger. Resentment. Envy. Being the victim. A sense of helplessness. What can you release that doesn't serve you? What can you let go of, including its benefits, to change the trajectory of your life?

What can you release that doesn't serve you? What can you let go of, including its benefits, to change the trajectory of your life?

3.???? The best way around is through

Robert Frost once said: "The only way round is through". When considering purpose barriers and preventers, we sometimes desire to find a way around them. Imagine your barrier being a long wall, and you think – if only I can get around that wall. If only my kids were older and my job less demanding, I'd get around to doing something meaningful.

Here is a thought. Instead of waiting to get around these roadblocks, go through them. Remember the scene from Harry Potter and the 9 and ? platform? You can't wait. The train is about to leave. You've got to push through the wall.

So, if you don't volunteer because you have kids, volunteer with them. Kids Giving Back is a great way to start doing good with your children. If you can't find the time to establish your purpose because of your work, do it through your work. How does your organisation create a positive impact, and what can you do to partake or even lead this organisational impact?

We all have "excuses" that sabotage our purpose journey. Some of these are perceived, and others are genuine.

List what stops you from doing something more impactful and purposeful in life and work, and consider if you can use these blocks as your purpose-building blocks.

What stops you from doing something meaningful? Can you remove it or go through it?