You’ve decided to embark on a journey to grow and change. You don’t want to settle for status quo. You want your life to be significant to God and others.

Well, as you’ve probably learned already, changing your mindset isn’t an easy journey. It’s not going to be something you wake up one morning and just decide to do and get it over with. It’s a journey and there are going to be many obstacles on the way.

There are obstacles, but you can overcome them. You’re more likely to overcome them if you’re prepared for them, so here are a few of the ones you’re certain to face.

Take a deep breath and let’s look at some of them.

1.) The desire for instant gratification

All of us want our desires to be satisfied immediately, don’t we? This is true of all humans throughout time but is especially true for those of us in the modern world . We are used to drive-thrus and instant meals. We can often get whatever we want instantly, or almost instantly.

Cultivating a growth mindset isn’t like that. It’s going to take time and work, and a significant amount of each. You’re going to get frustrated with your lack of progress more than once, especially in the beginning.  You’ll probably be tempted to quit. This is when you must exercise patience and keep going.

You’ll get there if you stick with it.

2.) Repeated failures

You’re going to fail at some of your goals and activities. Sometimes repeatedly. Everyone does.

No one likes failing, and the temptation to throw in the towel can be overwhelming, especially after multiple failures. Don’t give in. Take a break and regroup, then get back in there and try again.

3.) Other people’s opinions

You might not be expecting this one, but it’s probably going to crop up. No matter how detached and independent we are, humans have an innate desire to be liked and supported.

Some of your friends and family aren’t going to support you on your journey, or at least not on parts of it. Who this will be and when it happens might surprise you, so be ready for it.

This is why building a support system is so important. You need people who are guaranteed to support you no matter what when you undertake this journey.

4.) Your own brain

Human brains can be fickle things. No matter how much you want to change your mindset, your brain is going to throw up obstacles in the way. Probably multiple times and in places you wouldn’t expect. These obstacles will primarily come from limiting beliefs and fear. Expect them so you won’t be surprised.

Be prepared to reach out to your support system when it happens so you can get past the obstacle and move on with your journey.

Romans 12:2 (Passion Translation)  Stop imitating the ideals and opinions of the culture around you, but be inwardly transformed by the Holy Spirit through a total reformation of how you think. This will empower you to discern God’s will as you live a beautiful life, satisfying and perfect in His eyes.