Introduction: The Image of Barriers
The image shows several horizontal barricades, representing a form of boundary, symbolising obstacles in life. These barriers can be seen as a metaphor for the mental blocks we often impose on ourselves. They separate us from our goals and hinder progress. Frequently, these barriers are invisible and subtle but just as strong as physical fences. In self-management, whether in our professional or personal lives, they become unseen obstacles that restrict our growth and development. The good news is: they are not insurmountable.
The Power of Inner Barriers
The barriers in the image symbolise inner beliefs and mental models that prevent us from growing beyond our current selves. These inner obstacles can take many forms: fear of failure, self-doubt, perfectionism, or even the belief that certain goals are unattainable. Although we cannot directly see these beliefs, they profoundly influence our behaviour.
In the context of “Rethinking”, the goal is to become aware of these barriers and develop alternative patterns of thought and action. The ability to recognise and gradually dismantle these obstacles is a crucial aspect of self-management.
Self-Management and Rethinking: Transforming Mental Barriers
Self-management means controlling one’s resources, such as time, energy, and abilities, in such a way that they are optimally utilised to achieve personal goals. Yet, we often stand in our own way – just like the barriers in the image. If these obstacles are not questioned or overcome, we remain trapped in old patterns.
“Rethinking” encourages us to reconsider these limitations and transform them. In coaching and philosophy, we refer to these as cognitive restrictions, which can be overcome through deeper engagement with our own thoughts and emotions. It’s about adopting a new perspective and asking: “Is this boundary real or self-imposed?” This simple but powerful reflection can be the first step towards change.
Rethinking Implementation Tip: Expanding the Horizon
A concrete approach within Rethinking is the use of a technique I call “Expanding the Horizon”. It involves taking deliberate steps to broaden your own perspective. When faced with an apparently insurmountable obstacle – whether at work or in life – follow these steps:
- Identify the barrier: Ask yourself what is specifically holding you back. Is it a belief? An unconscious fear?
- Question the reality: Ask yourself if this barrier is truly real or if it’s something you’ve created through your beliefs. Example: “Is it really true that I cannot handle this task, or is that just what I think?”
- Perspective shift: Imagine how someone else – a mentor, a friend, or someone you admire – would view this situation. What solutions would they suggest?
- Gradual overcoming: Start with small, achievable steps to dismantle the barrier. It’s not about breaking through it immediately but working on it consistently.
- Visualise success: Imagine having overcome the barrier and the feeling this would evoke in you. This change of perspective can help strengthen confidence in your own abilities.
This technique helps expand the horizon and gradually break down mental barriers, opening the path towards new opportunities.
Conclusion: Overcoming Mental Barriers through Rethinking
The image of the barricades is a powerful metaphor for the obstacles we face in life and work. These barriers, often invisible and self-imposed, prevent us from reaching our full potential. Through Rethinking, we can become aware of these limitations and free ourselves from them. By expanding our horizons, adopting new perspectives, and taking small steps towards change, it is possible to become more successful, balanced, and self-determined in both life and work.
Lesson: The barriers we perceive are often only as strong as the belief we place in them. When we begin to question them and broaden our perspectives, we can find new ways to achieve our goals.
Note
We use the assistance of artificial intelligence to increase the structural readability of our texts, to optimise content for users, for the quality management of formal aspects and to generate attractive, context-appropriate images. In addition, AI helps us to analyse reader feedback, adapt to trends and continuously improve our content in order to always offer you the best possible reading experience.
R2049 