Whenever we dread something, feel nervous and anxious, or simply don’t know how to navigate around an obstacle, it’s easy to focus on the actual obstacle, trying to overcome it. This however, will only make the obstacle feel unsurmountable and bigger than it usually is. As someone who used to horseback ride a lot growing up, I’ve learned a trick.

When a rider sets out to jump an obstacle course, it’s crucial to look over the obstacles and onto the way or even to the finish-line. If we look directly at the obstacle, the horse stops and doesn’t want to jump over it. Through this, we can learn that if we focus on what is coming next, or what we’re going to do once we’re done with the scary dentist appointment or other thing, our mindset can shift into seeing it just as a step on the way. So next time you find yourself facing an obstacle, think of what you’re going to do after it. This way, you’ll feel less pressure and more flow.