Overcoming Your Greatest Challenge: Yourself

“Every man is the biggest problem to himself.” – Dr. David Oyedepo

Who do you think is the most difficult person who ever lived? Is it the government, your spouse, sibling, friend, or lecturer? None of the above. The answer is YOU. No one can cause more setbacks in your life than yourself.  

Each of us is a challenge unto ourselves. This truth manifests in various aspects of life:  

– In business, we make promises but often fail to fulfill them.  

– On our wedding day, we declare, “I do,” only to break those vows later.  

– At the start of every year, we create resolutions, yet we revert to old habits, diminishing our effectiveness and missing opportunities for growth.  

This challenge extends even to leaders. John Maxwell, a renowned leadership expert, once shared a story that perfectly illustrates this idea. During a leadership conference, someone asked him, “Which is the most difficult—leading up, across, or down?” Maxwell’s response was swift: “None of the above. Leading myself is the toughest.”  

True leaders understand that their ability to lead others begins with effectively leading themselves. To navigate life’s difficulties, we must first conquer the challenges within. Below are five practical steps to help you overcome your personal obstacles. 

1. Identify and Acknowledge Your Weaknesses

During my university days, I often set unwritten goals, such as achieving A’s in most of my courses. 

However, my unchanged habits, like skipping lectures and failing to revise, held me back. It wasn’t until my final year, when I identified these weaknesses, that I started achieving my goals.  

The first step toward growth is recognizing the specific areas where difficulties arise. Knowledge of your struggles is essential for creating practical strategies to overcome them.  

2. Recognize That Everyone Faces Challenges

It’s comforting to know that everyone has difficulties to confront. This understanding helps eliminate the “I’m the only one with problems” mentality.  

The difference between achievers and non-achievers lies in their perspective. Achievers view problems as opportunities for growth, while non-achievers see them as insurmountable obstacles. 

Remember, challenges cannot remain hidden—they will surface as you progress. The sooner you address them, the better your chances of success.  

3. Adjust Your Attitude

Attitude is the lens through which we interpret life’s circumstances. As someone aptly said, “What happens to us is less important than what happens within us.”  

One lecturer questioned why some students excel while others fail, despite being taught by the same person. The difference often lies in attitude. A positive attitude towards learning or any pursuit significantly affects the outcomes.  

The Apostle Paul, in Philippians 4:13, wrote, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” even while facing immense adversity. His unwavering attitude made all the difference. Adjust your attitude, and you’ll adjust your life.  

4. Take Responsibility for Your Life

In today’s world, people often blame external factors for their circumstances. Students blame lecturers for poor grades, while others fault the economy for financial struggles. Yet, success stems from taking personal responsibility.  

Money doesn’t flow to those who merely need it; it flows to those who attract it. Become the captain of your own life and take control of your destiny.  

5. Take Action Now

Procrastination compounds problems. Delayed decisions often make difficulties more daunting. While it’s good to plan, action is indispensable.  

A million intentions cannot match the power of one decisive action. Start taking small, consistent steps to overcome your challenges today. Remember, you are stronger than your problems!

Conclusion

These five practical steps—identifying your weaknesses, recognizing shared challenges, adjusting your attitude, taking responsibility, and acting decisively—can help you tackle life’s difficulties.  

This year, let your life reflect God’s glory. Confront and conquer the “petty foxes” that hinder your progress, and focus on your strengths to fulfill your God-given purpose.  

Remember: Life is too short to be held back by your weaknesses. Rise above them, and I’ll see you at the top!