For many of us, we prefer to avoid obstacles and would rather not face opposition. We see obstacles as problems and opposition as the enemy.
However, it doesn’t have to be that way.
In 1st Corinthians 16, Paul talks about a wide door of opportunity with so many adversaries. Paul could have easily just moved on to the next town. No one would have blamed him. However, he saw opposition as an opportunity.
Over the years, I have developed a similar view. In my leadership coaching sessions, I discuss using obstacles and opposition as opportunities for influence and impact. In fact, it’s in these moments that we have the greatest opportunity for impact.
If we are going to do something truly noteworthy, it will likely be in the midst of a major challenge. Here are ten ideas for you to consider that might just alter your view of obstacles and opposition:
1. Pay attention to the tension. Lean into hard discussions. Things seldom get better ignoring them.
2. Your opportunity for greatest impact will be found facing your biggest obstacles!
3. Opposing views don’t always equate to the enemy. Ask questions, listen, and get an understanding of the other party’s viewpoint.
4. Connect before you correct. Be sure you build a bridge before offering a different path.
5. Winning the debate does not always equate to a favorable outcome.
6. Stay true to your convictions, but if your purpose is influence, then you must work to be listened to.
7. Clarify your identity rather than choose a side.
8. Don’t miss the opportunity in overcoming the obstacle – an opportunity for influence.
9. Opposing views should strengthen your resolve, not weaken you.
10. Safe people run from adversity. Difference makers run to it!
If you want to start taking advantage of these opportunities, you must first recognize them as such. We can get so focused on solving the problem or overcoming the opposition that we miss the opportunity.
Secondly, we must remember that influence and impact go beyond solving the immediate problem or overcoming the opposition in front of us. It’s not about shouting louder or winning the debate. It’s about taking advantage of having people’s attention (moment of high influence) and conducting ourselves in a manner that people listen to us.
We don’t need to be the loudest in the room, but we do need to be listened to when we speak. Our words should be consistent with our convictions while we connect with others. We seek to be humble in asking questions and genuine as we listen to others. Furthermore, we want our motives to be sincere and focused on others.
We will all face obstacles. That’s part of life. We will also encounter opposition if we engage to any degree.
What will you do with these opportunities?
Doug provides professional speaking and coaching services to organizations and individuals. Whether you are looking for a speaker for your next event or a leadership coach to develop people and build a team culture, feel free to reach out to Doug at doug.strickel@gmail.com and learn more about PLUS.
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