Hope and the Art of Finding New Paths
In my last two articles, I explored cultivating dreams of a better future and building anti-fragile confidence to turn those dreams into reality. Now, let’s explore the third pillar of hope: recognizing multiple pathways to our future.
The Obstacle Is the Way
Every path is filled with obstacles, even the easy ones. This is both an uncomfortable and unavoidable truth. As Marcus Aurelius wrote, “The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.” It may seem annoying at first, but with the right mindset, challenges aren’t just barriers—they’re opportunities to grow, adapt, and innovate.
Some of the most groundbreaking artistic works were born from limitations:
Billie Eilish’s signature sound emerged because she and her brother, Finneas, recorded in a small bedroom rather than a professional studio. The constraints led to an intimate, lo-fi production style that set her apart.*
Vincent van Gogh’s bold colors and brushstrokes weren’t just artistic choices—they were shaped by his struggles with mental health and deteriorating vision. His unique approach to light and movement came from working around his limitations.
As Igor Stravinsky famously said:
"The more constraints one imposes, the more one frees oneself. And the arbitrariness of the constraint serves only to obtain precision of execution."
Without the constraints of our reality and the paths we have chosen, we are left staring at a blank canvas, unsure of where to go next.
Breaking Free from the One-Road Mindset
Progress isn’t linear. It’s a winding path filled with detours and setbacks. If we cling to a single route, every obstacle feels like failure. But when we accept that there are many ways forward, roadblocks become stepping stones rather than stop signs.
Dr. King’s vision of the ‘promised land’ wasn’t tied to one path—it was a movement that adapted and found new ways forward. We must do the same in our own pursuits. When one path closes, we can climb over, go around, or forge an entirely new trail.
The Power of Multiple Pathways
Expanding our view of success makes us:
Resilient – If one path is blocked, we have alternatives.
Adaptive – Every challenge strengthens our ability to navigate change.
Creative – Obstacles push us to find solutions we wouldn’t have otherwise.
Confident – Knowing we have options reduces the fear of failure.
Your One Thing: Pathfinding
Take five minutes to apply this to a goal you’re working toward:
List three different ways you could achieve it.
Identify one person who might offer insight or support.
Find an obstacle you’re facing and brainstorm how it could become an advantage.
Remember: Success is fraught with failure. You can’t get to the brighter future without stumbling through rough terrain. “The more paths you create, the more doors you open—to success, to growth, and to the hopeful future you’ve envisioned.”
*Side note/fun fact: Billie and Finneas were heavily influenced by Marian Hill, who also recorded in Jeremy’s apartment in the early days.