We all have good intentions when it comes to healthy habits and nurturing relationships, yet sometimes even the best plans stumble over something small and seemingly invisible. I know firsthand how a tiny, almost hidden obstacle can throw off the best intentions—and how recognizing it can open the door to positive change.
Take my waterpik habit, for example. I knew it was good for my dental health, and I genuinely wanted to use it regularly. But I kept putting it off, especially at night which I thought was the “ideal” time. So the waterpik sat there, untouched. I knew it, but didn't do it.
One evening, my wife mentioned something that surprised me. “I don’t use it because it’s too loud,” she said. That simple comment struck me. I’d always thought it was a bit noisy, too, but I hadn’t fully realized it was my own obstacle. The noise was just enough of a barrier to keep me from using it, yet I’d been unconsciously accepting it instead of addressing it.
Once I recognized that “invisible hurdle,” I was able to act. I did a quick search for the “quietest waterpik,” ordered it on Amazon, and a few days later, I had a new waterpik just waiting. Not only was it quieter - waaayyy quieter, but it was also smaller and more powerful. I've been using it most days since.
I'm still amazed how long I just took the noise as "what is" without even asking whether there were other options. Invisible hurdles don’t just exist in the realm of dental hygiene. In fact, these small barriers often pop up in our relationships. Maybe you’ve been wanting to have more regular date nights, but something keeps getting in the way. Is it time? Is it energy? Is it that nagging feeling that it’s too much effort to arrange?
So here’s a challenge:
Think about one invisible hurdle that might be holding you back from having a consistent date night routine and the fulfilling connections from it. What's one phrase that regularly pops up right after "I want to have a date-night, but ______?
What's one thing —however small—to start clearing it away that you can do in the next day?
And, yes, another obstacle will be beyond that one. But, clear one and I promise you'll start finding more momentum and connection.
Sharing is caring
We're all unique, but our obstacles are frequently similar. Please email info@dateboxclub.com with your obstacle and the step you took. We'll share the list (anonymously) here or in a follow-up.
