Whether it’s a project that’s stalled, a relationship that isn’t working or an exercise plateau, feeling stuck is something almost everyone experiences. And though it can feel frustrating and limiting, getting stuck is actually a good thing. It means you are at the threshold of a new chapter in your life. This is a moment to embrace the power of self-determination and the ability to create your own reality—and it’s going to be an amazing one!
On this episode of Speaking of Psychology, a podcast produced by the American Psychological Association, I spoke with New York University psychologist Adam Alter about the reasons why we all get stuck and what practical steps you can take to overcome the mental or emotional hurdles that are holding you back.
In your book, Anatomy of a Breakthrough, you say that we all experience a point in our lives where we get stuck, even the most successful people. This is because achieving long-term goals requires hitting plateaus, and the plateaus can be difficult to see when you are so close to a goal. This is especially true for goals that don’t have clear end points, such as writing a book or learning a new skill.
One of the ways that you suggest we can get un-stuck is to try changing our physiology, like taking a walk or trying to write with a different type of pen. What is the science behind this?
Another piece of your advice is to talk with other people when we are stuck, especially those who are unlike us. What is the science behind this?
The first step to getting unstuck is to recognize that you are stuck, which is often a feeling of powerlessness. We tend to resist this feeling, but the best way to reclaim our power is to acknowledge it and accept it for what it is: a natural, normal part of the process of changing your life.
To reclaim your power, it’s important to identify the fears that are keeping you stuck. You can use the tools in this guided journal to dig deep and identify the limiting beliefs that are blocking you from creating your dream life. Then, once you’ve identified your limiting beliefs, you can begin the inner work to let them go and start believing in your own potential.
Whether you’re ready to commit to a new career, learn a new skill or create a better relationship, this guide will help you take action and move forward. You’ll find that tremendous progress is waiting for you just beyond the barrier of fear and frustration. So don’t be afraid to push past your discomfort—it will lead to an amazing breakthrough!