People feel stuck in all sorts of ways — it might be in their job, their relationship, a health challenge or some other event. The feeling of being stuck can be paralyzing. But the good news is that getting unstuck isn’t impossible.
The root causes of feeling stuck are often limiting beliefs and self-sabotage. These negative beliefs stifle the desire to push past a hurdle and make it difficult to find the motivation needed for success.
For example, someone might believe that their mother doesn’t love them, or that they are a bad person because of an old argument with a sibling. These negative beliefs can make it hard to move on from a relationship or job that is no longer working, and to start looking for a new opportunity.
The key to breaking through a stuck mindset is to find strategies that remove these roadblocks. This means identifying why you are stuck, and working through the emotions, feelings and situations that have led to this point in your life.
If you’re trying to write a paper, for instance, the most common reason for being stuck is not knowing what it should be about. Taking time to create an outline can help clarify the message of your work and ease the process of writing. Also, be sure to set realistic expectations. Don’t try to write thousands of words per day if you don’t have the time or energy for it. Instead, aim for a few paragraphs.
Many people who struggle with feeling stuck seek out a therapist to help them navigate these issues. Whether you are struggling with relationship problems, a lack of motivation or a career that feels like it’s no longer challenging you, a therapist can help you identify the root cause of your discomfort and develop an action plan to get un-stuck.
Another way to break through feeling stuck is to ask yourself the question: What are the smallest steps I could take to make progress? This will refocus your mind and remind you that even though you are feeling stuck, you are still in motion. Getting unstuck isn’t easy, but it is possible with a bit of grit and the right support system.
It’s important to rely on a wolf pack — a group of friends who are supportive and motivating — when you’re working through tough changes. And try to incorporate self-care into your routine, including healthy eating habits, sleep and movement, to give yourself the best chance for success. You’ll find that the more you practice these tips, the less stuck you will become. Good luck!