If you’ve ever felt stuck in a rut at work or stuck in your relationship, or just like you can’t get ahead, it’s not alone. Large numbers of people feel this way at some point in their lives. But there are things you can do to reclaim your sense of momentum and start feeling unstuck.
The key is in the words you use to describe your situation, and the emotion you attach to those words. For example, if you tell yourself that you’re stuck in a rut or that you can’t move forward, those thoughts will create feelings of helplessness and claustrophobic confinement. But if you reframe your experience and say that you’re feeling in-process, or that you’re simply transitioning from one phase of life to another, those feelings will be more positive.
A big part of the problem is that many of us lack a deep sense of purpose. This means that we haven’t set goals for our personal or professional lives that will guide us through challenging times. Without clear guidance, it can be easy to feel stuck and overwhelmed.
Getting un-stuck can often be as simple as reexamining your priorities. Look at your daily schedule and decide what to add back in, such as more time for reflection or learning. Think also about what you can subtract, such as canceling or taking a break from some of your lower-priority activities. Research shows that less activity can lead to a happier, more peaceful state.
You might have a particular situation in mind that you’re feeling stuck about, but it’s important to remember that it took a long time to get into your current rut. It’s not going to take a day or even a week to get out of it. Rather, you’ll need to create small steps of progress each day, and it may be difficult at first, but you’ll eventually find yourself moving in the right direction.
If you’re trying to write an article and you’re stuck, try writing in a different format. Switch to handwriting or even try drawing or coloring. Writing with a different medium will change your brain’s focus, which can sometimes get jumbled and make it harder to generate ideas. Getting up and walking around, or even just talking to someone else can help you get out of a stuck mindset. This is especially true if you have a trusted friend to talk with, as they can give you new perspective on your situation and encourage you to continue pushing forward.
What’s more, you can always call on them for support if the feeling is too strong to handle alone. It’s okay to admit you feel stuck, and to ask for help if necessary. In fact, it’s a sign of strength that you’re willing to acknowledge your need for help. It’s a sign that you want to move forward, and that you are willing to invest in yourself to do so. This article is more than 2 years old.