Step 2: Roadblocks

Uncover and address obstacles that are holding you back

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Step 2: Introduction to Roadblocks

When you’re trying to solve a problem or reach a goal, it can sometimes feel like you’re walking through mud. Something is slowing you down or keeping you from moving forward. These things are called roadblocks. Roadblocks can come from the outside, like not having enough time, money, or tools, or they can come from inside, like fear, doubt, or not knowing where to start.

The Roadblocks step helps you figure out what’s getting in your way. It’s like shining a flashlight into a dark room—you can’t solve what you can’t see. By taking the time to understand your roadblocks, you can plan how to get around them and make progress toward your goal.

Key Objectives

The goal of this step is to help you identify your roadblocks so you can overcome them. Here’s what you’ll focus on:

Spot Your Biggest Problems

What’s slowing you down or stopping you?
Identify the specific challenges that are holding you back. These could be anything from a lack of time to unclear priorities or external obstacles.

Separate Internal and External Challenges

Where are your roadblocks coming from?
Figure out if your challenges are internal (like fear, self-doubt, or confusion) or external (like resource limitations, regulations, or lack of support). This distinction will guide your problem-solving efforts.

Prioritize Your Roadblocks

Which challenge is the most important to fix first?
Some roadblocks have a bigger impact than others. Focus on the ones that will create the most positive change when resolved.

Reframe Challenges into Opportunities

How can these roadblocks help you grow?
Shift your perspective: instead of viewing roadblocks as purely negative, consider how overcoming them could build your skills, resilience, or creativity.

Roadblocks Trigger Questions

To uncover your roadblocks, take a moment to reflect and ask yourself the following questions

  • What is the biggest problem I’m facing right now?

  • Are there outside problems stopping me? 

  • What makes me feel stuck or unsure?

  • Which roadblock feels the hardest to fix right now?

  • Do I need more time, tools, or help to solve this problem?

  • How can I use these roadblocks to my advantage?

  • Is my mindset (fear, doubt, etc.) getting in my way?

  • Are there any patterns among my roadblocks?

Planning a Trip Use Case - Roadblocks

When planning a trip, roadblocks might include:

  • Not having enough money for your dream destination.
  • Being unsure how to book a flight or find a hotel.
  • Learning that the place you want to visit is closed during your travel dates.

For example, you might want to go to Hawaii, but flights are too expensive. That’s your roadblock. Once you know this, you can look for deals, save money, or choose a closer destination. Naming your roadblock helps you find a solution.

Similarly, in a business or personal challenge, understanding what's holding you back is the first step toward progress. Identifying obstacles—whether it's a lack of resources, skills, or confidence—enables you to develop targeted solutions and create a clear plan to overcome them. 

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Actionable Tips

Here are 5 practical tips to succeed in the Roadblocks step:

  1. Be Honest: Write down your challenges without sugarcoating them. Facing them head-on is the first step to solving them.
  2. Ask for Help: A fresh perspective can be invaluable. Talk to a mentor, colleague, or friend who can help you see solutions you may have missed.
  3. Rank Your Problems: Decide which roadblock is causing the most trouble and focus on that first. Solving one big challenge can make smaller ones easier to handle.
  4. Stay Positive: Roadblocks are normal and temporary. Focus on what you can control and take one step at a time.
  5. Break It Down: Big roadblocks can feel overwhelming. Break them into smaller, manageable tasks, and solve them one by one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Next Step

You’ve identified what’s in your way. Now it’s time to figure out where you want to go and how to get there. Learn how to set clear goals in Step 3: Objectives.

Last Step - Present
Next Step - Objectives