What are Potholes?
They are structural failures on road surfaces caused by wear and tear in the soil structure and the continued impact of vehicles on the roads. Living in Lagos, you see potholes of different shapes and sizes. From those the size of a small hole to others competing with the grand Canyon. As drivers, we have learnt to slow down when we approach a pothole or our vehicles end up getting damaged or worse, we get hurt! However, only in filling the potholes can the roads be truly motor-able.
So, imagine that life is a journey; a journey to achieving and actualizing our goals, our vision and fulfilling the destined call. Imagine that there are potholes on the way and indeed, there always are. Our life's paths can easily be riddled with the potholes of despair and lost identity, and failed choices and broken purpose. The question is, what can we do about it?
Potholes in life can be anything from a challenged upbringing to parental neglect, from a dominating spouse and a belligerent boss to emotional trauma to repressed self expression. Potholes can come in different quanlities, shapes and sizes but the common theme remains its debilitating power over our will, our choices and the success of our goals. The more potholes we hit, the worse it gets and eventually we give up and give in to depression, panic attacks, anxiety, broken dreams and a failing life.
If we have to slowdown at every pothole we meet in life, we may never reach life's fullest potential; unless we fill the potholes once and for all.
I once had the privilege of meeting a charming 45 year old lady who in-spite of her rising profile at work, her stunning beauty and a kind heart found it impossible to love, connect or trust anyone. This is despite the fact that she yearned deeply to love and be loved. Why? The pothole of childhood abuse! This prevented her for so long from loving anyone even when there was a long line of qualified suitors. Thankfully, she courageously filled it and brick by brick, she brought down the walls of skepticism and distrust and today, she continues to develop her capacity to be open to romance and to love. There are many others like her. What about you?
Pause a moment, think deeply and ask yourself, "What are my Potholes?". As human beings, we are in constant search of our identity, community and purpose. Whatever the potholes you identify, remember that the first step on the journey to success is to deal with challenges. Wherever you need help, speak to a friend, a counselor, a therapist or a coach and work towards filling the potholes. Develop within you, the undaunted will and unflinching energy to succeed in the quest to be a better version of yourself and I guarantee that your success is already assured.
Please reach out to me to learn more about confidence building coaching and other powerful training. Remember, anything is possible only if you believe and act on it now! Do share this with someone in your circle of influence who need this. They will thank you for it!
Femi Adelayo
Article Contributor: Femi Adelayo (Writer/Trainer/Speaker 📞08033529826, 📧mestriallc@gmail.com)
Article Editor:
Cheers and thanks for reading!!!