Get Unstuck: Move Toward the Life You Want
- Stefan Jurgens
- Feb 27
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 20
Have you ever felt like you're running on a hamster wheel? Going through the motions day after day, but not actually moving toward what you truly want in life?
I've been there. A few years ago, I found myself in a career that looked successful on paper but left me feeling empty and unfulfilled. Each morning, I'd wake up with a sense of dread, knowing I was living someone else's definition of success rather than following my path.
This feeling of being "stuck" is incredibly common. Most adults report feeling trapped in at least one area of their lives at some point. The good news? Being stuck isn't a permanent condition—it's a signal that something needs to change.
If you feel like you’re running on autopilot—trapped in a job that drains you, unsure of your next step, or paralyzed by the idea of change—you’re not alone. The good news? You can move forward. Here’s how.
Understanding What Keeps You Stuck
Before taking that next step, let's explore what might be keeping you in place. Several common culprits can contribute to that 'stuck' feeling we all experience:
Fear of uncertainty: Our brains prefer the devil we know to the one we don't.
Fixed mindset: Believing our abilities and circumstances are unchangeable.
Perfectionism: Waiting for the "perfect time" or "perfect plan" before acting.
Lack of clarity: Not knowing what we truly want or value.
Automatic negative thoughts: Self-defeating patterns that reinforce being stuck.
When you feel stuck, it's usually because your daily life doesn't align with what you truly value. That uncomfortable feeling isn't just distress—it's important feedback highlighting exactly what areas need adjustment in your life
Step 1: Get Clear on What You Really Want
Vague goals like "I just want to be happier" won’t cut it. Define your ideal professional life in detail:
What kind of work excites you?
What does your perfect workday look like?
Who do you collaborate with?
How do you want to feel at the end of the day?
Write it down. If a friend asked what you want, could you explain it in one sentence? If not, refine it. Clarity fuels action.
Step 2: Make a Simple, Actionable Plan
A goal without a plan stays a wish. Break things down into small, achievable steps:
What skills or credentials do you need?
Who can you reach out to for advice or connections?
What’s one thing you can do this week to move forward?
If a career transition feels daunting, start with small steps: up-skill, network, or explore part-time opportunities. Progress adds up quickly.
Step 3: Clear the Path
Feeling stuck often comes from distractions draining our time and energy. For the next six months, make space for change by:
Limiting social media and digital distractions
Saying no to commitments that don’t align with your goals
Spending time with people who inspire growth
This isn’t about cutting off relationships—it’s about creating room for your next chapter. Treat this as a reset, a time to focus on your future self.
Step 4: Build Momentum with Microactions
Big changes start with small, consistent steps. Microactions—tiny, daily efforts—are key to breaking free from stagnation:
Career transition: Spend 5 minutes each morning researching one company in your desired field
Creative project: Write just one sentence of your book daily
Relationships: Send a genuine message to someone in your network each week
These small actions compound over time, turning intention into progress. Start today—momentum builds faster than you think.
Mindset Shift: Start Acting Like the Person You Want to Become
Change isn’t just about external actions—it’s about shifting how you see yourself. If you want to run your own business, start making decisions like an entrepreneur now. If you want to be a leader, step up with confidence today.
Growth happens in the process, not just at the destination. You’ll build confidence, skills, and momentum along the way.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Feeling stuck isn’t a flaw—it’s often the first step toward meaningful change. The next six months will pass no matter what—will you be in the same place, or on your way to a more fulfilling life? Having the right support to challenge limiting beliefs and keep you accountable can make all the difference.
Change can feel overwhelming, but staying stuck has its own cost. Sometimes, booking that first session is the small step that sets everything else in motion. Schedule a free consultation to explore your next steps. When you're ready to move forward, Inner Counsel Psychotherapy is here to help.
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