Navigating Obstacles: Overcoming Challenges to Pursue Your Passion

The journey towards pursuing one's passion is often fraught with challenges. I can confidently say that my love for professional guitar playing is one of my earliest and ongoing passions. However, the path to realizing this dream has not been without its share of obstacles. This article will explore the main barriers that have hindered my pursuit of this passion, offering insights on how these obstacles can be overcome.

Lack of Motivation: An Internal and External Dilemma

A lack of motivation can often be the major stumbling block in the pursuit of our dreams. In my case, there was a significant absence of both internal and external motivation in pursuing professional guitar playing. There was always a yearning to be a Slinger - the type of guitarist who gets called into the studio to play intricate licks and catchy solos. However, the absence of motivational factors, whether from within or from the external environment, made it extremely challenging to take the leap towards making a career out of this passion.

Limiting Opportunities: A Reality Checks the Dream

The second significant obstacle that confronted me was the limited opportunities in the music industry in my country, Papua New Guinea. Being a professional guitarist is a thankless job in many parts of the world, and even in places where it could be a viable career path, the lack of opportunities often dictates the course of one's life. In my case, I realized that the music industry in my country is not glamorous or supportive enough to pay for a career in music. The industry's trend also shifted, making traditional guitar playing less lucrative compared to electric or electronic music, which further dampened my enthusiasm. This realization forced me to consider alternative career paths, regardless of my love for the craft.

Responsibilities: Prioritizing Life Over Passion

Responsibilities play a significant role in the decision-making process when it comes to career choices. The necessity to eat and sustain one's well-being often takes precedence over personal passions. In my case, I had to face the harsh realities of economic constraints. When facing financial responsibilities and a need to support myself and my dependents, the pull towards a career that does not pay well becomes challenging. I eventually decided to pursue an engineering degree, not because I didn't have a passion for it, but because it offered a secure and financially viable path.

It's important to note that while these obstacles might seem like valid reasons to shift away from a passion, they are often self-imposed limitations. It's crucial to investigate these obstacles further and find ways to overcome them. Seeking support from mentors, developing a strong network, and identifying alternative revenue streams can help in making the transition to a career that aligns with one's passion. Additionally, finding ways to incorporate one's passion into the chosen career path can also be a viable solution.

Falling in Love with Something Else: A New Chapter

Another significant obstacle that often comes into play is the shift in interests. It's not uncommon to find ourselves in a situation where we fall in love with something new and find it difficult to maintain the passion for our initial pursuit. In my case, I explored the field of engineering, and it turned out to be a great choice. While I had to leave my initial dream of being a professional guitarist, embracing engineering allowed me to explore new areas of interest and gain new skills.

However, it's important to remember that these obstacles are often temporary. With the right mindset and perseverance, it is possible to overcome these challenges and find a way to integrate one's passion into the overall life equation.

The Role of Fear in Shaping One's Career Path

Another common obstacle faced by many is the fear of not having enough potential to pursue their passion. This fear can be driven by a lack of belief in oneself or societal expectations. In my case, there was a pervasive sense of fear that I was not good enough to pursue a career in professional guitar playing. The fear of failure or not meeting the expectations set by others, such as my parents, can be daunting. It's important to address these fears head-on and build a supportive network to overcome them. Seeking career counseling or guidance can also be beneficial in navigating these fears.

The fear of not being enough is a common human experience, and it's crucial to remind ourselves that every individual has unique talents and potential. It's important to focus on personal growth and development rather than external validation. Embracing a growth mindset can help in overcoming these fears and finding the courage to pursue one's passions.

Conclusion

The obstacles in the pursuit of one's passion can be overwhelming, but with the right mindset and strategies, they can be overcome. Lack of motivation, limited opportunities, responsibilities, and falling in love with something else are all valid challenges that can impact our career choices. By addressing these obstacles head-on and finding ways to overcome them, we can find a path that aligns with our passions and values. The journey towards achieving our dreams may not be linear, but with perseverance and a positive attitude, we can navigate the challenges and realize our full potential.