Only as high as I can grow.
Only as far as I seek can I go.
Only as deep as I look can I see.
Only as much as I dream can I be.
Karen Ravin
As a life coach I often hear about the challenge of being stuck. There is nothing more frustrating than being stuck in life whether it be a job, relationship, career, business, in traffic, or you-name-it, but the overwhelming sense is S. T. U. C. K. being without clear instructions of how to move forward.
Over the course of time my clients have shared ideas that helped them move from stuck to thrive, and here are eight suggestions. Before you using this client tested and approved list of ideas. Think about the what the gift of self-thriving is for you.
Self-thriving could be doses of self-kindness, soul-level peace by leaning on faith, calmness of mind and heart, and the physical stillness of being present. These are the moments that open the window of self-healing, self-love, self-respect, and forward momentum.
I encourage you to play around with these different suggestions. Remember you have a learning style that is unique to you, and while those learning styles can change over the course of a lifetime, do not be afraid be flexible. Be willing to learn and try something new.
1) Read Books: Seems obvious, but people fall away from the joy of disappearing into a book. A book is a wonderful way to disconnect from reality and let your mind relax and enjoy a journey.
2) Listen to Podcasts: The beauty of the technology age. There are many wonderful topics and speakers sharing tips, ideas, stories, and encouragements via podcasts. Try simply listening if book reading is a challenge or while you multitask (ie exercise).
3) Take a Class: There are many places to take courses ranging from free to expensive depending on your interest. Remember, classes challenge us to move past ourselves and consider what is going on in the world and our place in it.
4) Practice Passions from the Past: What did you let go of that really meant a lot to you. For example, dancing, drawing, tennis, reading, volunteering, etc. When trying to move forward it is important to think about what feels good and to act on it. Often the answer is something you already experienced.
5) Get Feedback: Family and friends are great for feedback or not (only you know that answer). Many times an answer to your question lies with those who care for you, and I encourage you to be comfortable asking for support, comments, and ideas.
6) Set a Goal: What is something you meant to finish? What is something you meant to start? What is your 90-day plan, 6-month plan, or other? Goal setting is one way to inspire, encourage, and aim to finish all those ideas waiting for your attention.
7) Be Open to Change: If you want to get unstuck you will have to be open to experiences, trials, failure, and success. Change is the place that will move you from a place being unstuck to thriving. I can not emphasize this enough – failure will happen, make it part of your plan and learn from it.
8) Build Community: Do you feel connected to a group of like-minded people? Humans were meant for relationship and community. Where can you find people like you? First, identify what you want to try, second where is that activity located, and three be brave by attending.
You might ask, how quickly will I move forward? My answer is that depends on you and how ready and motivated you are.
The trick to moving from a place of stuck to a place of thrive is to TRY something. ACT on something. Do something.
Be Brave, the World is waiting for YOU!