When the Day Doesn't Go as Planned: Thriving as a Notary Anyway, Because Calm Is Part of the Toolkit.

The Obstacle Is the Way—Even in Notary Work

There's a well-known quote from the Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius that has gained renewed attention thanks to Ryan Holiday's book The Obstacle Is the Way:

"The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way."

It's a powerful concept, but what many don't realize is that Marcus wasn't talking about mountain climbs or military campaigns. He was talking about people. Challenging, frustrating, thoughtless people.

That co-worker who undermines you. The rude customer. The friend who disappoints you. These aren't just challenges to endure; they are opportunities to practice excellence. To cultivate patience, forgiveness, courage, self-control, and even good humor.

However, this wisdom extends far beyond dealing with difficult people. Every situation we face, positive or negative, easy or frustrating, is an invi...