Albert Einstein is reported to have said: “You can not solve a problem with the same mind that created it.” Very often in life that we have hand brakes and do not even know. When a bit of effort does not give us the results we want, apply more of the same effort. We know that something is wrong, you can even smell the burning rubber. But unfortunately, many of us just keep on, “not having time to re-think, and not ask anyone else to help. The point I am making is that when we apply ourselves the best we know, and still do not get the results we want, it should be obvious that “the best they know how” is not only sufficient. We have to stop, look and listen. We may need outside help.
Any other activity could cause further damage. These hand brakes very often take the form of self-limiting beliefs. Usually we do not know that. But if we take the time out, with a trusted friend or coach, our words, actions, omissions and assumptions very likely that one exists. An example: I have a friend who was not getting enough business contracts. He was qualified, capable and prospects often given a hearing. He presented his business well and had a sound, a convenient service offer. But somehow, the prospect conversion rate remains low. We talked and after a while the problem became apparent.