How to Get Unstuck
Have you ever felt stuck? It’s a feeling many of us experience at some point, whether it’s in our jobs, personal lives, or even just in day-to-day tasks. From my experience in coaching conversations, especially those focused on strengths-based coaching, I’ve found that framing the situation positively and focusing on action are two of the most powerful tools for breaking free from that stuck feeling.
Embrace Positive Framing
When I work with people who feel stuck, one of the first things I encourage is a shift in perspective. Instead of focusing on what’s not going well, take a step back and identify what is going well. What aspects of your job, environment, or situation do you enjoy? It could be the people you work with, the type of work you’re doing, or the skills you’re learning.
I know from personal experience that sometimes, even in the most challenging roles, there are valuable takeaways. For example, I once worked in a call center collecting donations. The job was emotionally draining, and I didn’t enjoy the role itself, but I learned how to engage with anyone, think on my feet, and navigate tough conversations. Looking back, I’m grateful for that experience because it taught me transferable skills that still benefit me today.
Find Something to Gravitate Toward
When you feel stuck, making a list of what’s bothering you can be helpful. But remember to focus on finding even one thing you can hold onto—something that brings you energy or gives you purpose, even if it’s small. Sometimes it’s about finding a sense of joy or fulfillment in the little things that can make a big difference in how you feel about the situation.
When It's Time to Move On
In some cases, no amount of reframing or small shifts will get you out of the rut. If you’ve been stuck for a while—whether weeks, months, or even years—sometimes the best course of action is to recognize that it might be time for a change. While most of us don’t have the luxury of quitting without a safety net, focusing on your strengths and crafting a compelling story for your next step can provide the motivation needed to move forward.
Sometimes, the very act of focusing on your next adventure can reignite your passion and energy. It's energizing to know there’s a future where you can use your talents in a new way, even if it’s not an immediate reality.
Refocus on What Brings You Joy
One key piece of advice is to refocus on the things outside of your job that bring you joy and energy. It’s okay if your job doesn’t align with your life’s passion—many people find fulfillment in hobbies, side projects, or personal pursuits that don’t pay the bills but fuel their spirit. Reframing your focus from what’s lacking in your work to what brings you joy outside of it can have a profound impact on your overall well-being.
Take Small Steps, Not Big Leaps
When feeling stuck, it’s easy to think you need to make huge, life-altering changes. But the most energizing progress often comes from taking small, manageable steps toward a larger goal. Think of each step as an investment in yourself, even if the outcome isn’t immediately clear.
For example, when I was in high school, I was deeply involved in theater. While the long hours of rehearsal were exhausting, I found immense joy in the process, and it fueled my energy during those times. If you're passionate about something, even a small step toward it will re-energize you.
Action Over Inaction
If you're feeling stuck, one of the most important things you can do is take action. Often, inaction is what keeps us feeling trapped. Whether it’s applying for a new job, starting a side project, or getting involved in a new group, action is the antidote to feeling stuck. Even small steps, taken consistently, can create momentum and bring clarity about your next move.
Don’t Go It Alone
Finally, if you're feeling stuck, reach out to someone. Whether it’s a coach, a mentor, a friend, or even someone from a different industry, talking things through with someone else can offer new perspectives and help break through mental barriers. I’ve found that when I feel stuck, my tendency is to withdraw, but those are the times I need connection the most.
Feeling stuck is never easy, but there are ways to work through it. By focusing on your strengths, taking small steps, finding what brings you joy, and reaching out for support, you can break free from that stuck feeling and move toward something more fulfilling. If you're looking for more personalized support, let me know—I'd be happy to help you work through it in a coaching conversation.
