Personal Growth

What to Do When You’re Feeling Stuck in Life (53 Ways + Expert Insights)

By Jahrine Okutsu
Updated on

Ever found yourself just standing still in life, watching as everyone else seems to pass you by? I’ve been there, staring at the ceiling and wondering, “What now?“.

But what if I told you the power to change is already in your hands?

Down below, we’re exploring actions, big and small, to get you out of that loop. Curious about what those action steps are? I promise they’re simpler than you think, and we’re about to get started.

Table of Contents

Practice Mindfulness Daily

Starting your day with mindfulness is like setting the tone for a beautiful song that’s about to play. It’s about being present in the moment, noticing the world around you without any judgment. I mean, how often do we rush through our days without really living them?

Mindfulness teaches us to slow down and savor life.

What this looks like: Sitting quietly every morning, just breathing for five minutes. Or maybe noticing how your coffee smells and tastes as you sip it, instead of gulping it down on your way out the door. It’s doing one thing at a time and being cool about it.

When you’re mindful, tackling life’s to-dos, including those new hobbies or goals we’re talking about next, feels a tad lighter. Kinda like cleaning your glasses; suddenly, everything’s just clearer.

"Mindfulness comes in different forms, the goal is to feel better than you are at the moment, and it could take however long it takes, but in your process, soothe yourself into feeling better each day."

— Ndambi Mushonga | Wellness Writer | Mindfulness expert | Content Creator, The Good Feeling Place

Set Small, Achievable Goals

Start with simple things. Say you want to get fit – start by just doing a few stretches every morning. Or, if you’re thinking about writing, why not jot down a few lines a day? It’s about doing little bits regularly, and each time you do, you’ll feel like you’re moving ahead.

You see, small goals are the steps on the ladder to your bigger dreams. It’s important to celebrate these wins – maybe do a little happy dance in your kitchen, why not? That feeling is the fuel that keeps you going when the ‘stuck’ feeling tries to creep back in.

Explore New Hobbies

Starting a new hobby is a step away from the usual and a step towards something exciting. It’s not just about filling your time; it’s about giving your day a fresh splash of color. When life feels like it’s on repeat, a new hobby can be that plot twist that makes your story more interesting.

You don’t need a big plan. It can be something simple:

  • Jot down a few hobbies that catch your eye.
  • Pick one.
  • Give it a go, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day.

The point is to give your brain something new to think about. A new hobby can be the perfect way to shift your focus. And if you’re worried about being good at it, don’t be. The goal isn’t to be the best; it’s to bring a little joy into those moments when you need it most.

Who knows? You might find that you’re actually quite good at something you’ve never tried before. Or, at the very least, you’ll have learned what doesn’t quite fit. Either way, you’re moving, learning, and not staying stuck.

"If you pick up a hobby that fulfills that value, you'll feel more aligned, authentic, and fulfilled with life. This will give clarity of thought, making you better at your job and getting you unstuck."

— Ellie Borden, BA, RP, PCC |Registered Psychotherapist | Certified Life Coach | Clinical Director, Mind By Design

Build a Support Network

We all need our cheerleaders, don’t we? The people who have our backs when we’re feeling low and cheer us on when we’re up. That’s your support network. They’re key players in helping you get unstuck. So, look around. Family, friends, co-workers, or even online communities – these folks can be your team.

  • How to start: Reach out to a friend for coffee. Join a club or group where you can meet people with similar interests. It’s about making connections.
  • Why it’s important: Having people who cheer for you can boost your motivation and give you different perspectives on your challenges.

This network isn’t just for the tough times. Share your wins with them too. They can offer advice, help you see things from a new angle, and provide that boost of energy to keep you moving forward.

Reflect on Your Achievements

When you’re stuck, looking back at what you’ve done might not be your first thought. But hear me out. It’s easy to forget the wins, big or small when you’re focused on the now and not moving. Remembering what you’ve achieved can be like finding an old photo that makes you smile. It’s proof!

You did things. You made stuff happen.

Try this:

  • Write down three things you’ve accomplished this week, no matter how small they seem.
  • Look at that list and know that you did those things. That’s all you.
  • Celebrate them! A little celebration can make you feel like a million bucks.

This reflection is like fuel. It lights the fire to set more goals and start new projects. It reminds you, “Hey, I did that. I can do more.“

"Reflecting on each decade of life, teens, 20s, 30s, etc., and looking at the highs and the lows of each life period are essential to see what experiences have shaped you. You can then use this realization to learn what you need to feel inspired."

— David Lesser |Executive Coach | CEO and Founder, Numina At-home Transformation Retreat

Create a Vision Board

Vision boards are visual pep talks. They remind you of where you want to go. Here’s the thing: when you put your dreams and goals on a board where you can see them, it’s kind of like setting the destination on your GPS. It helps keep your eyes on the prize.

Start by finding pictures and words that match up with what you want in your life. Stick them on a board, a piece of paper, or even a digital canvas – whatever works for you.

  • What makes you smile? Put it on the board.
  • What gets you pumped? Add it.
  • Where do you see yourself? Yes, that goes on the board too.

Look at this board every day. Let it motivate you to take small steps towards big dreams. When you’re feeling lost, this board can be your map, showing you the way back to your path.

Start a Gratitude Journal

It’s easy to focus on what’s missing or what’s wrong, especially when you’re feeling stuck. Flipping that to focus on what’s good in your life? Game changer.

Here’s how you do it:

  • Each day, write down at least three things you’re thankful for. They can be big things like family and friends or small like that delicious cup of coffee you had this morning.
  • Look back over your entries when you’re feeling down. It’s a reminder of the good stuff in your life.

This isn’t just fluff – it’s about training your brain to spot the good stuff. Like finding spare change in an old pair of jeans, it’s a pleasant little surprise that makes you smile. It reminds you that not everything is stuck or at a standstill.

"Journaling or practicing mindfulness can help with self-reflection by allowing you to slow down and check in with yourself. It can also be helpful to explore different avenues of self-discovery, such as journaling, meditation, or trying out new hobbies and activities."

— Becca Smith, LPC |Chief Clinical Officer, Basepoint Academy

Take a Break from Social Media

Scrolling through feeds can make you feel like everyone else has it all figured out. Spoiler: they don’t.

Taking a step back from social media frees up time and headspace. That time? Use it for things that add real value to your life.

What this looks like:

  • Decide on a set amount of time for your break — a weekend, a week, or maybe even a month.
  • Notice how much more time you have. Maybe you’ll pick up that book you’ve been meaning to read or finally try that new hobby.

This detox helps clear your mind. And with all those achievements and bits of gratitude you’ve been recording? You’ll likely find you’re doing just fine on your own path without the need for constant comparison.

Reconnect with Nature

Think about the last time you just sat on a bench and watched the world go by. Nature’s pretty good at making us feel connected and vibrant. Nature doesn’t rush, yet everything gets accomplished. Stepping outside and taking a moment to just be can help you get your thoughts together when you’re spinning your wheels.

Simple ways to connect with nature include:

  • Taking a walk in the local park.
  • Watching the sunrise or sunset.
  • Tending to a garden or houseplants.
  • If you’re adventurous, plan a weekend hiking trip.

When you’re out there, you’re part of something bigger, and your problems might just start to feel a bit smaller.

Learn to Say No

One of the toughest yet most liberating skills is learning to say “no.” It’s about setting boundaries for yourself and not piling more onto your plate than you can handle. Feeling stuck often means you’re overwhelmed, and saying yes to everything only adds to that feeling.

  • Start small: Practice saying no to small things before tackling the big ones. It gets easier with time.
  • Remember your goals: If something doesn’t align with them or your vision board, it’s okay to say no.

This skill allows you more time and energy for what truly matters to you, like those hobbies, goals, and self-care practices we’ve talked about.

Volunteer for a Cause

Now, it might seem counterintuitive after just talking about saying no, but volunteering can actually be a way to enrich your life and feel less stuck. It’s about choosing to give time to causes you’re passionate about. This act of giving back can provide a profound sense of purpose and connection.

How to choose: Pick a cause that speaks to you. It could be environmental, educational, or anything that you feel strongly about.

Here are some ideas:

  • Help out at a local food bank.
  • Walk dogs at an animal shelter.
  • Spend time with the elderly.

When you volunteer, you’re part of a bigger picture. You see the direct impact of your actions. It’s uplifting and can give you a fresh perspective on your own life. You might even discover new paths and possibilities.

Declutter Your Space

A cluttered space often reflects a cluttered mind. Taking the time to declutter your surroundings can have a surprisingly freeing effect on your mental state. It’s like clearing away physical obstacles and also clearing mental ones, making it easier to move forward.

Simple steps to start:

  • Choose one area at a time to tackle so it’s not overwhelming.
  • If you haven’t used something in the past year, consider donating it or throwing it away.

Decluttering is a physical act of saying “no” to what no longer serves you and making room for new things and experiences. So roll up your sleeves, and let the decluttering begin!

Break Your Routine

Doing the same things every day can make you feel like you’re in a rut. It’s time to shake things up a bit. Have your coffee at a different time, take a new route when you go for a walk, or watch a movie that’s not your usual genre. It’s about doing something – even just a tiny change – to make your day different.

When you change parts of your routine:

  • You might see new things that inspire you.
  • You could meet new people who bring excitement into your life.
  • You’ll make room for new experiences that can lead to new ideas.

This mix-up might be just the thing to jump-start feeling excited about life again. And who knows where these little changes might lead you?

Speak to a Life Coach

If you’re looking for a helping hand to get you moving, a life coach could be just the ticket. They’re like a personal trainer but for your life goals. They help you figure out where you want to go and how to get there.

You can talk about what’s bothering you, and they can give advice or help you see things differently.

Finding a life coach can be as easy as:

  • Searching online for coaches with good reviews.
  • Asking friends if they know someone they’d recommend.
  • Looking for coaches who specialize in the areas you need help with.

Having someone in your corner who’s all about helping you grow can be a breath of fresh air when you’re feeling stuck.

Exercise Regularly

You’ve probably heard it a hundred times: Exercise is good for you.

But when it comes to feeling stuck, breaking a sweat can actually break through those stuck feelings, too. You don’t need to run marathons or lift heavy weights. Just pick something that gets you moving and stick with it.

Try out:

  • A brisk walk around your neighborhood.
  • A fun dance workout video from the internet.
  • A few stretches when you wake up or before bed.

Moving your body gets your blood pumping and can even give your brain a boost. Over time, you’ll not only feel better, but you might also start to see things with fresh eyes. Exercise can be a powerful step toward feeling unstuck and back on track.

"Exercising regularly helps ease both anxiety and depression. Physical activity causes our brains to release 'feel good' chemicals, enhancing our endorphin levels...exercising pumps blood to the brain, allowing us to think more clearly. As exercise adds many benefits to our lives, it also helps promote self-confidence."

— Haley Perlus, Ph.D. |Sports and Performance Psychologist

Attend a Workshop or Seminar

Learning new things can work wonders when you’re searching for ways to get unstuck. Workshops and seminars are great places to start. They can be about anything: cooking, writing, technology, you name it. You learn and, at the same time, step out of your everyday bubble.

Here’s what to do:

  • Check local listings or online for any upcoming events that catch your interest.
  • Sign up for something that feels fun or useful.
  • Go there with an open mind, ready to soak in new knowledge.

It’s not just about the learning, though. These events are places where you can meet new folks who are interested in the same things you are. New friends and new skills? That’s a double win.

Read Inspirational Books

Sometimes, the right words at the right time can change everything. Inspirational books have this kind of magic. They’re packed with stories or advice that can light up new paths in your mind and give you that ‘Ah-ha!‘ moment.

To get started:

  • Find books that talk about overcoming challenges or personal growth.
  • Set aside a little time each day to read, even if it’s just a page or two.
  • Keep a notebook handy to jot down any ideas or thoughts that jump out at you.

Books are like quiet mentors. They’re there to guide you and give you that nudge when you need it without asking for anything back. And there’s no better companion when you’re feeling stuck and looking for a way out.

Start a Side Project

Having a side project can be like having a secret garden that’s just yours. It’s something you care about, something you’re making or building, and it can add a refreshing new layer to your everyday life.

Think about what gets your gears turning. Maybe you’re into baking, crafting, or online blogging.

Whatever it is, here’s how you can do it:

  • Choose something that feels exciting, not draining.
  • Make a simple plan to spend a bit of time on it regularly.
  • Watch as it grows from a tiny seedling into something bigger.

A side project can give you goals to shoot for and success to celebrate, all on your own terms. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to explore what you’re really passionate about.

Plan a Solo Travel Adventure

Thinking of stepping out of your comfort zone? Traveling on your own could be just the ticket. It’s about getting out there, exploring new places, and learning stuff about the world and yourself. You don’t have to go far. It can be a new town nearby or a nature trail you haven’t tried yet.

Here’s a simple plan:

  • Choose a place.
  • Work out a small budget – what will you spend on transport, food, and fun?
  • Go there with an eye for adventure and new experiences.

Flying solo on a trip opens you up to new people and places. You’re in charge, and the freedom that comes with that can make you feel less stuck already.

Prioritize Self-Care

Taking care of yourself is key when you feel like life’s got you in a loop. Self-care is all the stuff you do just for you because you matter. It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive. It’s about doing things that help you feel good and recharge.

Try a few of these:

  • Take uninterrupted time for things you love – reading, bathing, or watching a show.
  • Get enough sleep. It sounds simple, but it’s a big one.
  • Have healthy snacks that you really enjoy.

When you’re good to yourself, you’ve got the energy and the mindset to tackle life with more oomph.

It’s not selfish; it’s smart.

Practice Positive Affirmations and Limit Negative Self-Talk

What you say to yourself matters. Swap out the ‘I can’ts‘ and ‘I’m not good enoughs‘ with something kinder. Positive affirmations are like little high-fives to yourself. They can be short, sweet, and totally about you.

You might try:

  • ‘I am capable.’
  • ‘I can handle this.’
  • ‘I’m doing my best.’

And when that nagging voice of doubt starts up, gently turn it off. It’s not about ignoring the hard stuff; it’s about not letting it take over. Keep it positive, and keep it moving.

Ask for Feedback

Sometimes, to move forward, you need a fresh pair of eyes. That’s where feedback comes in. It’s about finding out what others think you’re doing well and where you could do better. Reach out to someone you trust and ask them to be honest with you.

Keep it simple with these steps:

  • Think of specific things you’re working on and ask for thoughts on those.
  • Listen without getting defensive. This is about growing, not proving you’re right.
  • Say thanks. Even if some of it stings a bit, it’s a helping hand, not a put-down.

The insights you gain are like clues to the next move in the game of getting unstuck. It’s about learning, adjusting, and keeping your eyes open to change.

Meditate Morning or Evening

Meditation is like pressing the reset button for your mind. It helps you calm down and sort through the noise in your head. You don’t need special cushions or a silent room. Find a comfortable spot, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing.

Try this:

  • Set aside 5 or 10 minutes when you won’t be disturbed.
  • Breathe in and out, slowly and deeply.
  • If your mind wanders (and it will), gently guide it back to your breath.

A daily meditation practice keeps you grounded and can clear up the mental clutter. It helps create space for new ideas to flow in.

Seek Professional Help if Needed

There’s no shame in reaching out for a helping hand. If you’ve tried many things and still feel stuck, a therapist or counselor can provide the support you need. They’re trained to help you work through the tough spots and find strategies to get back on track.

Here’s what to do:

  • Look for professionals with experience in what you’re facing.
  • Set up an appointment. Just taking this step can feel like progress.
  • Be open and honest in your sessions. This is your time.

Getting help is a sign of strength. It means you’re serious about making changes and ready to do what it takes to move forward.

"If you’ve been feeling stuck for a long time and nothing seems to be working, it might be time to talk to a therapist. They can help you identify the root of your problem and give you guidance on how to move forward."

— Heather Wilson, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP |Executive Director |Epiphany Wellness

Cook a New Recipe

There’s something special about cooking something new. It’s not only about eating; it’s about creating. When life feels like an endless loop, trying out a new recipe is a fun way to break free from the monotony.

Here’s a straightforward way to do it:

  • Pick a recipe that looks delicious to you.
  • Get the ingredients you need.
  • Follow the steps and make it happen.

Even if it doesn’t turn out perfect, you’ve made something with your own two hands, and that’s pretty neat. Plus, this little act of creation can get those creative juices flowing in other areas of your life, too.

Seek Inspiration from Podcasts

Podcasts can be a goldmine for getting new ideas and perspectives. It’s like having a conversation with a friend who always knows something interesting. You can find shows on nearly every topic imaginable, and they’re a great way to feed your brain with fresh thoughts.

To dip your toes in:

  • Find podcasts that speak to what you’re curious about or problems you’re facing.
  • Listen during times that you might be doing routine tasks – while commuting, cleaning, or working out.
  • Think about what you heard and how it could apply to your situation.

Inspiration can strike when you least expect it, and who knows? A line from a podcast might just be the spark you need to get moving again.

Rediscover Your Passions

Think back to what used to fire you up. Did you love to draw? Play an instrument? Write? Those passions might just be lying dormant, waiting for you to pick them up again.

To get started:

  • Make a list of things you once loved doing.
  • Choose one and do it again, even if it’s been a long time.
  • Don’t worry about being good at it. Just enjoy the process.

Rediscovering what you loved before can remind you of who you are and what makes you tick. It’s a way to reconnect with yourself and can add a whole new exciting chapter to your life story.

Say Yes to New Opportunities

When you’re feeling stuck, sometimes the best thing to do is to open the door when an opportunity knocks. New opportunities can come in different shapes – a class, a job, a project, or even a chance to help out.

Simple steps to take:

  • When an opportunity comes, think about it: Could this add something good to your life?
  • If it feels right, go for it. What’s the worst that could happen?
  • Trying and learning are what matters, not perfection.

Saying yes could lead you to exciting places or introduce you to great people. It’s about embracing change and growth.

Celebrate Small Wins

As you start making changes, don’t forget to celebrate the small stuff. Finished a task? Give yourself a high-five. Stuck to your plan for the day? Time for a little happy dance. It’s about giving yourself credit where it’s due.

Remember:

  • Celebrations can be simple – your favorite snack, a few minutes of quiet, or a walk.
  • Recognizing small successes helps build your confidence.
  • It’s the little achievements that pave the way to overcoming feeling stuck.

The journey to getting unstuck is made up of all these tiny steps. Each one is progress, and that’s worth celebrating.

Reevaluate Your Goals in Life

Sometimes the reason we feel stuck is that we’re chasing goals that don’t fit us anymore. It’s okay to change direction. Take a look at what you’re aiming for and ask yourself if these goals still make sense for you. If they don’t, it’s time for a change.

How to get started:

  • Write down your main goals.
  • Ask yourself why you chose these goals. Do they still excite you?
  • If not, think about what you really want now, and write that down instead.

Updating your goals can give you a new sense of purpose and a clear path forward.

Examine if Your Daily Activities Align with Your Goals

Once you know what your current goals are, it’s time to make sure what you do every day is helping you get there. It’s kind of like making sure you’re walking north if north is where you want to head.

Here’s a quick way to check:

  • Look at your daily to-do list. Does each task help you get closer to a goal?
  • If something doesn’t fit, don’t be afraid to drop it or change it.
  • Add activities that match up with your new goals.

When your daily actions help you reach your goals, feeling stuck starts to fade.

Make a Plan of Action

Got your goals updated? Great. Now let’s map out how you’ll get there. A plan of action is like a recipe for your success. You need a clear list of steps that will take you from where you are to where you want to be.

  • Break down each goal into smaller tasks.
  • Decide when you’ll do each one – put dates on them if that helps.
  • Keep this plan somewhere you can see it every day.

Your plan is your road map, and having it can help you move forward with confidence.

Get Rid of Anything That’s Holding You Back

We all have stuff in our life that drags us down and keeps us stuck – habits, routines, maybe even people that don’t support our dreams. It’s time to let go of those things.

Here’s how to clear the clutter:

  • List out what’s not serving you anymore.
  • Find ways to reduce, change, or remove these things.
  • Do it – free up that space and energy for better things.

Letting go is tough, but it’s also liberating. It’s about making sure nothing’s in the way of your progress.

Take One Step at a Time

Looking at the big picture is important, but so is focusing on the step right in front of you. Each small step is progress, and acknowledging that keeps you moving forward one day at a time.

  • Focus on the task at hand – give it your full attention.
  • Celebrate it once it’s done – you’re one step closer!
  • Then, take the next step. No rush, no pressure.

With each step, you’re building momentum, and before you know it, you’ll be out of that rut and on to bigger and better things.

Check in with Your Values

What’s important to you? Knowing this can guide you when you’re feeling lost. Your values are like your personal compass for deciding what comes into your life and what stays out.

Try these steps:

  • List out what matters most to you.
  • Look at your life and see if it matches up with your list.
  • Make changes if there’s a gap.

When your life lines up with your values, you’ll feel more grounded and clear-minded.

Check in with Yourself

It’s important to stop once in a while and ask yourself how you’re doing – really doing. Are you happy? What’s bothering you? Do you feel like you’re going where you want to go? This is what we call a self-check-in.

You could:

  • Sit down somewhere quiet with a notebook.
  • Write down your thoughts and feelings.
  • Be honest with yourself – this is for your eyes only.

This kind of honesty with yourself can show you what’s working and what’s not, helping you figure out what to do next.

Go Back to the Drawing Board

Sometimes the plan just doesn’t work out. And that’s okay. It just means it’s time to create a new plan. Going back to the drawing board is not about starting from scratch – it’s about adjusting your plan based on what you’ve learned.

  • Look at your old plan.
  • Decide what parts still make sense and which ones need to go.
  • Craft a new plan that feels more ‘you‘.

Remember, it’s not a failure to change course – it’s smart, and it’s brave.

Further Your Education to Improve Your Career

Feeling stuck might mean you need new skills or knowledge – especially when it comes to your career. Think about a class, a workshop, or even going back to school. Learning more can be a huge boost to your career and your confidence.

Consider:

  • Online courses that you can do at your own pace.
  • Night classes that don’t interfere with your job.
  • Training programs that can lead to certifications or degrees.

Education is a powerful way to open doors and give you options you might not have right now.

Cultivate an Atmosphere Where You Are Receptive to Inspiration

Want to catch some inspiration? Create a space where it’s welcome. This means making time and places where you can be open to new ideas. It’s about being ready when a spark of inspiration hits you.

Get your space ready by:

  • Keeping a notebook or app handy to jot down ideas when they come.
  • Making sure your workspace or home is inviting and makes you feel good.
  • Allowing yourself downtime – inspiration often strikes when you’re relaxed.

Creating this kind of atmosphere helps you stay open to the little nudges that could lead to big changes.

Be Clear About What You Want Out of Life

Knowing exactly what you want can guide you out of feeling stuck. It’s like having a destination punched into your GPS. When you’re clear about your destination, finding the path is easier.

  • Sit down and write out what your ideal life looks like – don’t hold back.
  • Break down this big picture into goals and milestones.
  • Use these as your guideposts as you make decisions and plans.

Having this clarity can be super motivating and can help guide your choices and actions.

Get a Realization of What’s Important

Sometimes, we get caught up in stuff that, well, just isn’t that important. Getting unstuck often starts with a solid understanding of what really matters to you. These are the things worth your energy and effort.

Finding out what’s important can be as simple as:

  • Asking yourself what you would want if nothing stood in your way.
  • Thinking about the people and activities you miss the most when they’re not around.
  • Deciding what you won’t give up on, no matter what.

Once you know what’s truly important to you, it can help you shift your focus and prioritize your actions.

Learn from Past Experiences

Your past experiences are like a treasure trove of lessons waiting to be discovered. They hold the key to understanding what works for you and what doesn’t. Using these experiences can help you move past the feeling of being stuck.

To learn from your past:

  • Think about times you’ve overcome challenges.
  • Write down what helped you succeed.
  • Apply these strategies to your current situation.

Remembering how you dealt with past obstacles can give you confidence to face new ones.

Know Your Strengths and Talents

Everyone’s good at something. You’ve got your own set of strengths and talents, even if you haven’t discovered them all yet. These are your superpowers when it comes to getting unstuck.

Finding your strengths can be as easy as:

  • Taking note of what people compliment you on.
  • Thinking about tasks you find easy or enjoyable.
  • Exploring new activities to unearth hidden talents.

Embracing your strengths gives you a solid foundation to build on as you navigate through life.

Determine What Can Assist You

Having the right tools and support can make a big difference when you’re feeling stuck. It’s about figuring out what can give you a boost and get you moving in the right direction.

Consider what might help:

  • Apps or tools that keep you organized.
  • Books or resources that offer guidance.
  • People whose advice and experience you trust.

Getting your hands on the right tools and seeking out the right people can provide valuable support on your journey forward.

Build Social Connections

It’s all about who you know sometimes. Meeting new people and making friends isn’t just for fun—it can open doors and provide new perspectives. Strong connections can help you feel supported and introduce you to new ideas and opportunities.

To build your network:

  • Find events or groups that interest you and join in.
  • Reach out to old friends and rekindle relationships.
  • Be open to making connections everywhere you go.

When you surround yourself with a strong network of friends and acquaintances, you equip yourself with a community that can help you bounce back and find exciting opportunities.

Break Out of Your Box

We all have our comfort zones, but staying there too long can make us feel stuck. It’s time to stretch a little—try something different, change your scenery, or challenge a belief you’ve held for a long time.

Ways to break out:

  • Do one thing every week that scares you a bit.
  • Change up your daily routine—something as simple as trying a new food.
  • Take on a challenge that excites you but also makes you nervous.

Stepping beyond your usual boundaries can energize you and help you discover new paths you might not have considered before.

Be Kind to Yourself

Give yourself the same compassion you’d offer a good friend. Being hard on yourself can make that stuck feeling worse. Instead, treat yourself with kindness and recognize that everyone has tough times.

  • Forgive yourself for past mistakes. They’re learning experiences, not life sentences.
  • Celebrate your efforts, not just your achievements.
  • Take time for self-care because maintaining your well-being is essential.

Self-kindness can renew your energy and improve your outlook, making it easier to move forward and find your way out of feeling stuck.

Be Solution-Oriented

When you’re stuck, it’s easy to get lost in the problem. Flipping the script to focus on solutions can change the game. Look at your situation and ask yourself, “What can I do right now to make it better?” Approach each challenge as a puzzle to solve, not a roadblock.

Here’s how to be more solution-oriented:

  • List the issues you’re facing.
  • Brainstorm ways to tackle each one.
  • Pick the best solutions and start putting them into action.

By focusing on what you can do to improve your situation, you’ll feel more in control and less bogged down by the problems themselves.

Don’t Dwell on Failures, Focus on the Present

It’s natural to replay mistakes in your head over and over. But dwelling on what went wrong keeps you looking backward when you should be moving forward. Instead, put your energy into the present moment—the now.

Practice staying in the ‘now‘ by:

  • Letting go of what happened yesterday.
  • Concentrating on what you’re doing at this moment.
  • Knowing that each day is a new chance to do things differently.

The present is where you can make changes, so that’s where your attention should be.

Manage Your Expectations

If you’re expecting too much too soon, you’re setting yourself up to feel stuck. Aim high, but be realistic about what you can achieve and when. Sometimes, slower progress is better because it’s more sustainable.

To manage your expectations:

  • Be honest about what you can and can’t control.
  • Set goals that stretch you, but that you can still reach.
  • Celebrate the progress you make, even if it’s small.

By setting realistic expectations, you’ll avoid the frustration that comes with not meeting overly ambitious goals and keep yourself moving forward at a steady pace.

Practice Healthy Detachment

Healthy detachment isn’t about not caring—it’s about not letting things weigh you down too much. When you’re feeling stuck, it’s crucial not to let every little setback knock you off your feet.

  • What this means: If you’re stressing over something, remind yourself it’s okay to step back. You can’t control everything, and that’s alright.
  • Why it’s good for you: It helps you stress less and might even give you fresh ideas when you’re not trying so hard.

So, if you get a no when you wanted a yes, or if plans change unexpectedly, it’s okay. Take a deep breath and let it pass. It’s not the end of the world. This way, you keep your energy for the things that really deserve it, and you stay ready for new opportunities that are on the way.

"Remember that you are not obliged to overcome all challenges you encounter. Sometimes, the obstacles may not be meant for you to beat, so let them be."

— Christena Garduno | Chief Executive Officer, Media Culture

Set a Date to Park Decisions

It’s easy to get lost in trying to make the perfect choice. If you’re stuck on a decision, try this: pick a day on the calendar. That’s your deadline to decide. Until then, you can think about it, but don’t let it take over your life.

  • How it works: This gives your brain a break and prevents you from overthinking.
  • The result: You get clearer thinking and less stress about the decision.

This technique works hand in hand with avoiding getting stuck in your thoughts. By giving yourself time and space, you’re setting up for a more thoughtful choice, just like you do when choosing what parts of your life to declutter or which new hobby to try next.

"Date-park your decisions till that time."

— Dr. Sanul Corrielus, MD, MBA, FACC |Board Certified Cardiologist | CEO, Corrielus Cardiology

Take Action to Avoid “Analysis Paralysis”

Ever heard of analysis paralysis? It’s when you think about something so much that you end up stuck. The key is to just get moving. Don’t get lost in the maybe’s and what-ifs. Doing something—anything—is often better than doing nothing at all.

To break the cycle, do something small related to your goal. Here’s how you can start:

  • Want to start a business? Research one thing about it today.
  • Planning to travel? Look up one destination.
  • Thinking about studying again? Read up on one course.

Small actions lead to big changes. And remember, nobody gets it perfect the first time. It’s all about learning as you go, tweaking things here and there, and just keeping the wheels turning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is feeling stuck a sign that I need to change my job or career?

Not necessarily. It could just mean you need a new challenge or to find ways to grow within your current role. But if your job is a constant source of stress or unhappiness, it might be worth considering a change.

Is it okay to feel comfortable where I am instead of pushing myself to always move forward?

Sure, it’s okay to be content. But if that comfort turns to boredom or restlessness, it might be time to stretch yourself a bit and seek out new goals.

How can I deal with the pressure from others to “just get over” feeling stuck?

Take their advice with kindness but know your journey is yours alone. Move at your pace, not theirs. You know best what you need.

What if the changes I’m making don’t work?

Change takes time, and it doesn’t always go as planned. Be patient with yourself, and don’t be afraid to try something different. What works for one person might not work for another, and that’s okay.

How long will it take to feel unstuck?

It varies for each person and situation. Some may feel relief quickly after making a few changes, while for others, it could be a gradual process. Be patient with yourself and keep taking those steps forward.

Final Thoughts

All these bits of advice? They’re the small stones you can step on to cross the stream where you feel stuck. I know it because I’ve tiptoed across them myself. Life’s about moving, learning, and growing – even when the going gets tough.

As you try out each tip, remember that progress looks different for everyone. Your journey is yours alone, and it’s worth every step, stumble, and stride. From my side of the screen to yours, I’m rooting for you.

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Jahrine Okutsu

Jahrine Okutsu believes that words are powerful tools for connecting people. Driven by this conviction, she earned a degree in Communication and now applies this principle daily in her role as a committed writer and editor.

In her downtime, she finds delight in the simple pleasures of life—watching movies, playing horror games, and sipping on a warm cup of coffee. She sometimes gets lost in daydreams, letting her imagination wander, while at other times, she finds focus and peace through spiritual practices. Her dog, Zoey, brings an extra layer of joy and fulfillment to her life.