Lindsey Nordby

It’s been a while. I’ve been feeling really stuck, stagnant, with the things I’m doing on a day to day. The things that bring me joy, I can’t pursue. And the things that frustrate me, I’m stuck with.

It’s like I’m firmly rooted in one place while the world moves around me.

I have a feeling I’m not the only one with these feelings. I’ve been thinking and praying on this for a long time, and here are some thoughts on it.

Feeling stuck is a universal human experience, one that can leave us questioning our path, our choices, and even ourselves. However, through the frustration and uncertainty, there lies an opportunity for growth, resilience, and self-discovery.

The first step in navigating through feeling stuck is to acknowledge and accept the emotions that accompany it. It’s okay to feel frustrated, lost, or uncertain about the direction of your life. Denying these emotions only prolongs the sense of stagnation. By giving yourself permission to feel, you open the door to understanding and healing.

Take a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come. Often, when we feel stuck, we forget to acknowledge the progress we’ve made and the obstacles we’ve overcome. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Recognizing your resilience can reignite the spark of motivation needed to propel you forward.

Understanding the root cause of your feelings of being stuck is crucial in finding a way out. Is it a lack of clarity about your goals? Are external circumstances hindering your progress? Or perhaps it’s an internal struggle, such as fear of failure or perfectionism. By pinpointing the source, you can develop strategies to address it effectively.

Sometimes feeling stuck is a sign that it’s time for a change. Embrace the idea of change as an opportunity for growth rather than a threat to your stability. Be open to exploring new possibilities, stepping out of your comfort zone, and adapting to unforeseen circumstances. It is often in moments of discomfort that we experience the most profound transformations.

Be kind to yourself during periods of feeling stuck. Remember that it’s okay to take a break, to rest, and to recharge. Practice self-care activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Surround yourself with supportive friends and loved ones who can offer encouragement and perspective. Treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding that you would extend to a friend in need.

Break down your larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks. Setting achievable goals allows you to experience a sense of progress and accomplishment, even during challenging times. Celebrate each milestone along the way, no matter how minor it may seem. By focusing on what you can control and taking consistent action, you can gradually move forward.

Don’t hesitate to reach out for support when you need it. Whether it’s talking to a trusted friend, seeking guidance from a mentor or therapist, or joining a supportive community, connecting with others can provide valuable insights and encouragement. Remember that you don’t have to navigate through feeling stuck alone.

Above all, trust in the journey. Life is filled with ups and downs, twists and turns, but each experience contributes to your growth and development as a person. Trust that feeling stuck is not a permanent state but rather a temporary detour on the road to where you are meant to be. Have faith in your resilience, your strength, and your ability to overcome obstacles.

Feeling stuck is not a sign of weakness but rather an invitation to pause, reflect, and recalibrate. Embrace the journey, embrace the challenges, and embrace the growth that comes from navigating through the moments of feeling stuck. Remember, you are capable, you are resilient, and you are not alone.

Feeling un-stuck isn’t an overnight change. Even with everything afformentioned, even trying to take all of it to heart, it’s not an overnight change. Be patient with yourself, do things you love, and give yourself grace.

You got this.