"I’m like a bumper car. If I hit a wall, I’m backing up and going in another direction"

Think about a bumper car at an amusement park. It bumps into things, but it doesn’t quit. It just changes direction and keeps moving. That’s what the quote is getting at. Life throws obstacles in our path, and sometimes we hit a wall. But instead of getting stuck or giving up, we can choose to adapt and find another way forward.

This idea applies to so many areas of life. Take Thomas Edison, for example. He’s famous for inventing the light bulb, but did you know he failed thousands of times before he got it right? Each failure was like hitting a wall, but he didn’t stop. He kept tweaking and changing his approach until he succeeded. That persistence, that ability to back up and go in another direction, made all the difference.

Now, let’s bring this concept to a more personal level. Imagine you’re trying to learn a new skill, like playing the guitar. At first, it’s tough. Your fingers hurt, and you can’t seem to get the chords right. You might feel like giving up – like you’ve hit a wall. But if you think like a bumper car, you’ll try a different method. Maybe you’ll watch tutorials, get a teacher, or just practice a little bit each day until you improve. Each new approach is you backing up and trying a new direction.

So, how can you apply this approach in your daily life? It’s about mindset. When you face a challenge, remind yourself that hitting a wall doesn’t mean failure. It’s just a signal to try something different. Break down the problem, look at it from different angles, and be flexible. Maybe you’re working on a project at work that’s not going as planned. Instead of getting frustrated, take a step back. Talk to colleagues, brainstorm new ideas, or take a break and come back with fresh eyes. The key is to keep moving, to keep adapting.

Let me tell you a story to illustrate this. A friend of mine, Sarah, wanted to start her own bakery. She had fantastic recipes and a real passion for baking. But when she opened her shop, business was slow. She hit a wall. Instead of giving up, she started seeking feedback from customers and friends. She realized people loved her cakes but wanted healthier options. So, she adjusted her recipes and started offering gluten-free and vegan treats. Business picked up. She didn’t let that initial setback stop her—she backed up and found a new direction.

We all hit walls. Whether you’re working on a big goal, dealing with personal challenges, or just navigating everyday life, remember the bumper car. Don’t let obstacles stop you. Back up, change direction, and keep going. It’s a simple idea, but it can make a huge difference. So the next time you feel stuck, think about that bumper car and keep moving. You’ve got this.