Ryan Holiday's secrets of turning obstacles into solutions

Using inspiration from ancient Stoic philosophy, you can learn to turn obstacles upside down and experience life setbacks as a means of a way forward.

There are three critical elements to facing problems utilizing Stoic philosophy:

1) Perception – Recognize that situations are neither good nor bad. Accept whatever comes and refuse to indulge in harmful emotions.

2) Action – Focus on behavior that serves your larger goals. Apply yourself to problems creatively and persistently. Try as many different ways as possible and even if no solution is found even failure is a lesson and therefore a gift.

3)  Will – A Stoic maxim advises “bear and forbear”. Mentally prepare in advance for adversity so that you’re not shocked or caught off guard with setbacks do arise. Anticipate what will go wrong and prepare your response.

No matter how difficult the situation or impossible the problem, decide to see the greater purpose. Be determined to discover meaning and see value in whatever you’re experiencing no matter how unexpected.

Example: John D. Rockefeller famously kept calm throughout the Civil War and financial panics of 1929. He ended up owning 90% of US oil refineries and attributed his success to being cautious, thinking clearly and objectively, and looking for opportunities when others panicked.

The wise person can turn what seems like a bad situation to their advantage. The fool creates problems for himself and others even when blessed with good fortune. Some may be destroyed by crisis, some may survive them, but greatness is actually being improved by them.

See no difficulty as catastrophic. Ask yourself questions like: “Am I going to die from this?” and “Do I need to freak out over this?”

Decide that “problems” do not exist. They are a figment of our perception and imagination. Instead, know that only events useful for correcting your course or finding another opportunity exist.

Use the power of impartial observation to detach yourself from strong emotions. Instead of reacting instinctively, simply observe what is going on. Study everything carefully ensuring you’re not missing any facet of the issue. When fully understood, it’s easier to proceed.