Overcoming Personal Obstacles

09/01/2003

Overcoming Personal Obstacles

"The voice of conscience has a difficult time making connections with the ears." - Edgar Watson Howe

OVERCOMING PERSONAL OBSTACLES

In the February 15, 2003 issue of Bottom Line Personal (BottomLineSecrets.com), personal coach Laura Berman Fortgang offers these tips on changing your focus to solve problems . . .

* Get over yourself. People tend to immerse themselves in their own immediate experiences and problems. Breaking through self-absorption opens you up to solutions.

* Describe your situation in the third person. Let it play like a movie in your mind, and pretend you are watching. What is your objective opinion about the situation? How would you advise a friend to get through this?

* Strike the word "I" from your vocabulary. You'll find that you're less overwhelmed by your problems and more interested in other people. Look for—and point out—what others are doing right. A good mental strategy to use during the workday is to focus on the word "you" when you have positive things to share. See how you can contribute to a win for everyone.

* Ask "what"—not "why". Look at the circumstances around you in terms of what can be done to change them. Don't ask, "Why is this happening to me?" Ask, "What do I need to get through this?" Don't ask, "Why can't I do this?" Ask, "What do I need to know to understand this?"

Looking for a work in early childhood? Check out Exchange's successful Employment Opportunities section at www.ChildCareExchange.com.

For more information about Exchange's magazine, books, and other products pertaining to ECE, go to www.ccie.com.