Being stuck is an inner feeling of stagnation and paralysis that feels beyond our control. There is a lot going on in the world right now and I’ll admit that I’m feeling a little stuck.
When we get stuck, we often wait for external change to happen. But change doesn’t happen to us, it comes from within us. Change is scary and painful, but it’s also necessary for getting unstuck. And when that happens, many opportunities open up.
Below are 5 things you can do now to help you get moving and feel “unstuck”.
- Take a mindfulness pause – Simply pause, embrace the present moment and get out of being on auto-pilot. For example, sit outside and listen to the noises around you. Close your eyes and focus on the in and out of your breath. Appreciate someone in your life.
- Curb your self-talk – Thoughts that start with “I have to” and “I should” can weigh you down like a heavy anchor, making you feel burdened and stagnate. Try replacing “should” with “will”. Focus on what has gone well and what you will do next.
- Make yourself a priority – When we make sure our physical and emotional needs are met, we are broadcasting a message to ourselves and those around us, that we matter and we’re important. This replaces feelings of powerlessness and hopelessness with feelings of promise and optimism.
- Step outside your comfort zone – Figure out what you’d like to try but have been hesitant to act on. Getting out of your comfort zone from time to time creates just enough good stress to ramp up your focus, creativity, pace, and drive, and helps you respond to life stress when unexpected things happen.
- Take a break from social media – Limiting social media gives us time back to focus on pursuing personal goals and helps us to live in the moment. I haven’t watched The Social Dilemma on Netflix yet, but it is at the top of my list.
Feeling stuck from time to time is normal. Instead of thinking it is wrong or bad to feel stuck, allow yourself to be present in this emotion. Focus your energy towards figuring out what changes need to be made to move forward.
