Stuck is a feeling that comes when you’re frustrated and at a loss. It can be caused by many things. Often, it’s a result of working hard toward goals that don’t align with your values, priorities, or who you are at the core. It can also be caused by a lack of passion for your work or a lack of faith that it’s possible to accomplish your goal. Luckily, there are simple steps you can take to prevent getting stuck and help yourself move forward when you do feel stuck.
Stuck is an adjective that means fixed in place, or unable to be moved or freed. It is commonly used to describe something that is unable to move, such as a foot stuck in the mud or a car stuck in traffic. People often use the word stuck to refer to a situation in their personal lives that is preventing them from progressing or moving forward, such as being unhappy with a relationship or career.
The root of the word “stuck” is the same as the Latin verb stiti, meaning fastened or trapped. It’s easy to become stuck in the rut of everyday life, where you eat the same foods, go to the same places, and speak to the same people each day. It’s also easy to get stuck in a job that is no longer fulfilling or rewarding. Sometimes, the daily grind can leave you so drained that your relationships, health, and personal growth suffer. Despite the negative effects, many people choose to stay stuck because they’re afraid to change.
To get unstuck, it’s important to think about what is keeping you in the rut. Is it a fear of failure or rejection? Do you struggle with self-doubt or perfectionism? You can overcome these challenges by taking small, actionable steps and focusing on your well-being.
It’s also helpful to switch your perspective. Try zooming out, and pretend you are looking back at this period of your life from ten years in the future. What would you tell your younger self to encourage them? Changing your perspective can help you break the pattern of negative thoughts and emotions that keep you stuck.
In addition to shifting your mindset, it’s essential to practice good physiology. The physical body is a powerful tool that creates and sustains emotions, so focusing on positive habits like healthy eating, sleep, movement, and connection can help you break the cycle of stuckness. The Pomodoro Technique is a great way to incorporate this into your daily routine.