Marcus Aurelius, a Roman Emperor and a Stoic philosopher, is best known for his writings in Meditations, a collection of personal reflections that have transcended time. Though penned nearly 2,000 years ago, these insights have guided leaders, thinkers, and everyday individuals in navigating life’s challenges. One of his most powerful teachings is the idea that obstacles aren’t just something to be overcome—they are the very path to growth and success.
But why should we care about the musings of a long-dead philosopher? Because, whether you’re leading a team, running a business, or managing your personal goals, the obstacles you face today are no different from those encountered in Marcus’s time. The way we perceive and tackle these challenges defines our ability to succeed.
The Obstacle Becomes the Way
In Meditations, Marcus Aurelius wrote, “The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.” This profound statement is as relevant now as it was in ancient Rome. When we face obstacles, it’s easy to view them as barriers that halt our progress. But Marcus suggests that these very challenges are not just interruptions but integral parts of our journey.
Think about it: every significant achievement in life often requires overcoming a challenge. Whether it’s advancing in your career, building a business, or achieving personal growth, the obstacles you encounter don’t just block your path—they are the path. By shifting your perspective, you can begin to see obstacles as opportunities for growth rather than hindrances.
Perception: How You See the Obstacle
Your perception of an obstacle shapes your response to it. If you see a challenge as insurmountable, it will likely become so. However, if you approach it as an opportunity to learn, grow, and adapt, the obstacle becomes a catalyst for progress. This shift in perception is the first step in turning adversity into strength.
Managing your perceptions is crucial because they drive your emotions and actions. Calmly and objectively evaluating the situation allows you to identify opportunities for action rather than getting bogged down by frustration or fear. Remember, the way you perceive a problem determines whether it will stop you in your tracks or propel you forward.
Action: Breaking Down the Obstacle
Once you’ve adjusted your perception, the next step is action. Marcus Aurelius emphasizes that obstacles can be converted into opportunities through purposeful action. But how do you begin to tackle a challenge that feels overwhelming?
The key is to break the obstacle down into manageable parts. Focus on what you can control, strategize your approach, and take one step at a time. Instead of using brute force, apply thoughtful strategy. Stay in motion, even if it means making mistakes along the way. This process of “failing forward” allows you to learn from each misstep and adapt until you find a solution that works.
Consider the obstacles you face as puzzles to be solved, not roadblocks to be avoided. With each piece you put in place, you move closer to overcoming the challenge.
Will: The Inner Strength to Persist
The final discipline Marcus Aurelius teaches is willpower—the inner strength needed to persist despite difficulties. Obstacles often test our patience and determination, but it’s our will that keeps us moving forward. Developing this inner resilience is essential to turning obstacles into opportunities.
Willpower is about more than just endurance; it’s about maintaining a clear sense of purpose and direction even when faced with repeated setbacks. It’s understanding that every failure is a step closer to success and that persistent, consistent action will eventually lead to a breakthrough.
Wisdom from the Past
Throughout history, those who have achieved greatness didn’t do so by avoiding obstacles—they embraced them. Andy Grove, the former CEO of Intel, famously said, “Bad companies are destroyed by crisis. Good companies survive them. Great companies are improved by them.” This principle applies to individuals as well. Those who rise to the top are the ones who see obstacles not as threats but as opportunities to innovate, improve, and strengthen their resolve.
Great leaders and achievers are forged in the fires of adversity. They don’t shy away from challenges; instead, they use them to fuel their growth. The obstacles that should have held them back become the very things that propel them forward.
Will You Be Stopped or Strengthened?
Every day, life asks us: “Can you overcome the obstacles in your path? Will you show what you’re truly made of?” The choice is ours. We can either allow challenges to stop us in our tracks or use them as stepping stones to greater success.
It’s not about avoiding difficulties but embracing them as opportunities to build resilience, strength, and wisdom. When faced with an obstacle, ask yourself: How can this make me better? What can I learn from this? How can I use this challenge to move forward?
Make Obstacles Your Path
Marcus Aurelius’s teachings remind us that the obstacles we face are not just barriers—they are the way forward. By shifting our perception, taking strategic action, and harnessing our willpower, we can turn every challenge into an opportunity for growth.
In the end, it’s not the obstacle that defines us, but how we choose to face it. So the next time you encounter a roadblock, remember: the obstacle is the way. Embrace it, and let it lead you to greater success.
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Reference: Schmidt, Karen. “The Obstacle is the Way” SRA Update
About the Author
Trish Valenzuela is the Practice Director for Monogastric Health & Nutrition at Continental Search. She joined the team in 2015. With her knack for building relationships and a deep understanding of the industry, she has successfully led recruitment efforts for roles within the US, Canada, and Asia.
Trish makes sure to understand what each company needs in a candidate and works closely with them to find the perfect match. She loves learning new things, enjoys going to trade shows, and catching up with folks she’s worked with to keep learning and growing in her field. You can connect with her on LinkedIn or drop her an email at trish@continentalsearch.com.
