So, you want to get unstuck in your life? Start to get unstuck by changing something.
By the way, you're not alone if you feel this way. Trust me, I go through phases like this too.
Life is big, messy, beautiful, and sometimes perplexing to navigate. But there can more joy (instead of pain) if you're equip yourself with some personal development tools.
There’s a song called “Stuck In A Moment You Can't Get Out Of” from the band U2. It is a great example of the struggle in those moments of doubt or confusion.
Ultimately, the time comes when you need to do something. You’re ready for change but are unsure of what to do. U2 explores this feeling:
[Chorus]
You've got to get yourself together
You've got stuck in a moment
Feeling stuck is a signal you need to change something. Maybe you don't like the circumstances in your job, a relationship, personal development, or self-care. Your willingness to make a change in at least one area of your life could be the most important step you take.
These 7 tips will remind you that you possess the power to change how you're feeling and dealing with your moment.
1. Move Your Body
If you're feeling stuck then move your body. Stretch your muscles, exercise, dance in your kitchen. Movement gets your blood flowing and increases oxygen so better ideas will flow and lead you to a solution on changes to make in your lifestyle.
How to move your body:
- Go for a short (or long) walk
- Do a stretch session
- Jog or jump in place
- Jumping jacks
- Whenever you take a phone call, walk and talk
- Set a timer for 20 minutes and do as many reps as possible (aka AMRAP's) of all of your favorite exercises
2. Ask For Help
It is okay to ask for help. There are many people whose sole purpose is to help others work through problems. You don’t have to figure out everything by yourself. Talk to a family member, friend, or trusted mentor. Discussing what is on your mind helps open up the possibility of making the change necessary to move forward. Here’s a list of resources you can call and talk with someone who will listen:
Safe Shelter Center for Domestic Violence 1-912-629-8888
SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration) 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Contact Help Support 1-800-932-4616
The Samaritans (non-religious) 1-212-673-300
3. Don’t Overthink It
Getting out of a rut requires work and some thoughtful consideration. It doesn’t mean over analyzing every decision. This is where people stop progress before it starts. Don’t get caught up in the next move. Just do something.
There is no rule that states you must do one thing and one thing only. Life is meant to be explored so don't be afraid to test out solutions.
- Testing has no boundaries
- Take note along the way of what works for you
- Be aware of what you don’t do well
- Don’t dwell on your weaknesses
- Play up your strengths
4. One Thing At A Time
Take things one day at a time. There’s a reason for the phrase “baby steps”. Some days you can only put one foot in front of the other. Be proud of that progress.
Why? It is not the pace at which we move but the direction which is important. Small steps all add up to a big change. The result is you being in a different place than where you started. Isn’t that the goal?
Meaningful, micro-actions. That’s what you need for progress.
5. Deepen Your Relationships
We as humans are not meant to go through life alone. Especially during periods of tension. The tendency is to shut everybody out. If you reach out and nurture your relationships you’ll be surprised at the support you will get.
Share your status with a friend, parent, or trusted mentor.
Simply talking about your current situation helps you see it from a different perspective. Growth comes from changing things up.
6. Reconnect With Dreams
I sound like a broken record but...you are in control of your own life. Be that boss and go for your biggest, amazing dreams. Yes, it requires work to get there but you can make it happen.
Here are 15 exercises designed to reconnect you with those plans that may be pushed to the bottom of your to-do list.
- Three goals a day. The night before, write down 1-3 goals for the next day. Keep it short so you can actually do them all.
- Gratitude list. Write down a person, relationship, or experience you are thankful for.
- Study your expertise. Keep educating yourself in the thing you know or do best.
- Learn new things. Don’t stop learning about your new concepts, ideas, or strategies.
- Positive affirmations. Use them frequently.
- Write it down. You’ve already written down 3 goals from Step 1 above. The idea is to always write things down.
- Track your progress. Use a journal to keep track of your goals, moods, and ideas. Writing it down keeps you accountable to your dreams.
- Exercise. It is important for your overall health.
- Create rituals. Morning meditations. Or nightly self-care routines. It can be anything you need it to be.
- Visualization. I wrote a whole post on this. Read it here.
- Read daily. Reading opens your mind to other experiences. Having empathy allows you to have perspective. Perspective leads to growth.
- Be forgiving. Of yourself and others.
- Let Go. Do not hold on to routines, relationships, or thoughts that don’t get your closer to your end goal.
- Rest. Get enough rest each night so you can start the day with energy.
- Use time wisely. Prioritize your time and focus on what's important.
7. Do It Differently
Also, when you’re feeling stuck maybe you’re using your available resources in way that doesn't serve you best. Change the direction or even the motivation of your actions. You’ll get new results.
Use your resources differently. Creativity, energy, money, and time. Change how you’re using these and you will create different outcomes.
Next, pay attention to the results that work in your favor. Use those resources frequently.
You can thrive during times of uncertainty. So get started now on building the lifestyle of your dream. No more waiting only doing,
Xoxo,
Nicole
Personal Growth Resources to Pin or Save
