If you’re stuck, you feel frozen in one place or unable to move forward. A person might be stuck on a difficult math problem or a person might be stuck in a rut in their career or relationships. You can also be stuck in a situation where you don’t like the way things are or feel powerless to change them. The word stuck is derived from the verb stick, which means to remain fastened or fixed. It’s often used to describe an object that won’t budge, such as a car stuck in mud or a truck stuck under a bridge. Alternatively, people can also be stuck, especially during periods of transition or crisis.
A person might be feeling stuck after a break-up or job loss, a financial setback or a tragedy in their family. A person might also feel stuck because they don’t have enough sleep or experience a mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety. These can all contribute to the feeling of being stuck, which can be frustrating and debilitating.
Some ways to get unstuck include identifying the root cause of your feelings, focusing on small wins and taking action. Some people also find it helpful to reassess their priorities and values in light of the pandemic, and reimagine how they want their lives to look.
Another way to feel less stuck is to exercise, which is linked to positive emotions. This can be as simple as standing up straighter or going on a jog. Moving the body releases endorphins, which are mood-enhancing chemicals. It can also be helpful to talk about your feelings with a trusted friend.
It’s important to be mindful about the time you spend on social media, since it can lead to feelings of inadequacy or jealousy. Research has shown that overusing social media is associated with higher levels of stress and depression. Moreover, it may be beneficial to spend time with friends who aren’t using social media as much as you are.
Finally, it’s worth considering whether there is anything you can remove from your life to make room for other activities. Research has shown that being overworked is linked to lower happiness. This can be as simple as evaluating what is most meaningful to you and adding more of that into your day, while reducing or canceling the parts of your schedule that aren’t as fulfilling.
If you’re stuck while writing, remember that it’s normal to feel this way. Even the most famous authors have experienced writer’s block at some point. Take a step back from the computer and write by hand, or do something else that will give you some distance from what you’re working on. Then, once you’ve re-engaged with the task at hand, try a different approach. For example, if you’re stuck on how to finish that book, try changing your writing style or genre.