Are we walking a well-worn path in life?

by Martin Woolnough

If you ever feel pressured or overwhelmed then give things a little thought. Realize that many others have trod the path before you. Many others have traveled this road ahead of you. Many others have been on their own road, and a very similar one to yours - and they have reached their destinations.

Does your path still feel good, deep down good? If so persist; if you're not so certain then you can still persist. But, if you think no this path does not sit so well with me and I feel uncomfortable with the direction I am going in - then stop and reconsider. Let you feelings and instincts lead you. Allow yourself to amend, modify or change your goal or direction, but do keep on going. You can walk your path.

Remember that nothing much is achieved by doing nothing. But equally you want to be doing the right thing, the right thing for you. And that means being aware of the direction your life is going in. Being aware and responsible enough to seek advice or assistance if required. And also be strong enough and have faith in yourself to change direction if the need arises.

At times we all feel pressured. At times this is healthy and a great stimulus for forward motion and achievement. However, it can be debilitating and not conducive to action, to progress or change. Is the pressure external or internal? Brought on by outside forces or internally created?

The pressure to succeed, the pressure to walk the walk can be strong in life. Others can motivate us, but we need to be clear that they have our best interests at heart. For it is easy to fall prey to outside influence and stress. These situations need to be recognized and dealt with promptly, seeking outside assistance if required. Sometimes reassurance is enough, other times greater help is needed and should be welcomed if offered. Otherwise we need to recognize our situation and find a solution ourselves, but seeking help and guidance can be a big part of this.

At times, the stimulus is internal. And can be for any number of reasons:

• we don't like ourselves for our performance and tell ourselves in no uncertain terms - this hardly aids our cause and we would do well to recognize this
• we don't have the confidence to change course or direction and plough on regardless into greater mire
• our self image is poor and the constant negative (from within or without) wears us down - we need a break and a good dose of positivity
• we are lost along our journey and don't know which way to turn - we need to gain elevation and see our situation for what it is and see a way forward or backwards to firmer and clearer ground
• we don't feel motivated to continue and find it hard to lift our spirits - we need reassurance, and support from a friend or trusted companion

Most of this comes down to not seeing the wood for the trees. Getting lost in the detail and not smelling the roses. And we have to learn patience.

• If you feel pressure it can be because you really want to achieve your aim, you feel passionate and motivated. You just have to refocus your energy.
• If you feel numb, are you after something you really do want?

Proceed with patience. Be willing to put that little extra effort in - this will distinguish you from the many people who want something, but really want it to fall into their laps. Life seldom works that way. And would it be that rewarding if it did? Do you really want things gift wrapped?

Strive hard, be sincere, and put the effort in. Seek and accept help as you require or need. Keep on going and don't quit. See the goal, your goal, alive and ahead of you. Push on and you can and you will achieve your prize. And the journey will have been worth it.

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About the Author

Martin writes about enjoying life. Visit his website at http://www.self-esteem-enhances-life.com. Contact him via Contact Me. See his free monthly newsletter 'Balance in Life' at http://www.self-esteem-enhances-life.com/e-newsletter.html.