Stuck is a feeling of immobility, of being held in place or not able to move forward. It can be caused by anything from a physical block, like a stuck punting pole, to an emotional one, such as depression. It can be temporary, as with a broken leg or a flat tire, or it can be permanent, like being stuck in a rut at work. Stuck can be a debilitating feeling, but it is also an opportunity to examine and reconsider the situation. It can also be a catalyst for growth, like the way that a bad relationship may make you want to start fresh and try again.
In our research with older people during the pandemic, many of the participants described being stuck in their lives. We used the metaphor of a vice because they felt trapped in a painful existence that they could do very little to change. They fought to stay alive, but that struggle caused immense multidimensional suffering – emotional, mental, and even physical (Hedelin & Strandmark, 2020).
Being stuck is not only an unpleasant state of being but also very counterproductive. It is important to identify the true underlying fears, problems or concerns that are keeping you from progressing and take action. Using a tool like the Pomodoro Technique or taking time out for some mindfulness exercises can help to clarify your thoughts and get you moving in the right direction again.
It is also important to be realistic with your expectations when it comes to writing a paper. Getting stuck often has to do with not being clear on what the paper should actually say, so creating an outline before you begin drafting can be helpful. Setting realistic goals, such as aiming for just one or two paragraphs per day, will help you keep momentum and feel less overwhelmed.
Lastly, it is essential to remember that you are responsible for your own well-being. Ensure that you are eating healthy meals, getting enough sleep, and moving your body in a way that makes you feel good. Great physiology reinforces positive feelings and is one of the best ways to break negative patterns that can contribute to feeling stuck.
Ultimately, the most important thing to remember when you are feeling stuck is that there is always a solution. Sometimes, that solution is as simple as changing your perspective and reevaluating what’s truly important in life. Other times, it is as complex as tackling a difficult project that requires the use of your problem-solving skills. In either case, it is possible to break free of your stuck state and reach the breakthrough you deserve!