Have you ever felt utterly stuck? Like you're in quicksand where movement seems impossible, and it feels like there’s no escape? We often paint ourselves into these corners of despair, creating a narrative where we're powerless victims of circumstance. But let me ask you a serious question: how often are you genuinely devoid of choices? Often when you feel stuck, it’s got more to do with the vision you’ve created in your mind. Let’s take a look at what it means to be stuck, how to get un-stuck, and what happens if you don’t try to change this way of thinking.

Defining 'Stuck-ed-ness'

The idea of being stuck often conjures images of total immobility, an absolute lack of power. It's a dramatic portrayal, isn't it? But pause for a moment and ask yourself: are you truly stuck, or have you simply handed over your reins to someone else? It's a hard pill to swallow, recognizing that maybe, just maybe, we're not as trapped as we think.

I was reading one of Tony Evans’ book and he described a man at his conference who kept saying, “I don’t know I just feel so stuck. I feel like I’m drowning.” And to this Tony replies, “Start swimming.” Now I know some of you will read this and say something like, “Well, that’s just it, I don’t know how to swim.” Ok, put on a life jacket. Call for the lifeguard. Remember, this isn’t reality. These are the thoughts in your head. Which means you can think one thing and the next second create a totally different thought.

If you feel yourself being stuck and you see yourself being stuck, the first thing you need to do is create a new picture of yourself in your mind. Because what you see is what you believe, and what you believe dictates your behavior.

The Comfort Trap

There are some things that I just know always make me feel comfortable. The Soultri Scent candles. My old, navy blue super thick robe that I probably should have thrown away years ago. And my books. I love my books. It’s ok to have things in your life that bring you comfort.

But comfort is a sneaky little thing. In some ways it brings us peace, but all too often it keeps us tethered to the familiar: the same job, the same house, the same circle of friends. We cocoon ourselves in this bubble of predictability, shirking away from anything that smells of change. It's easier to blame external factors than to confront the person in the mirror. But here's the harsh truth: comfort is often the architect of our 'stuck-ed-ness.'

Personal Reflection

I know this blog is getting all in ya business and it’s deeper than my other posts about being successful or about living abroad in Mexico. But I had to write this because I want you to know that I've been where you are. Sticking to a job, a life path, simply because I'd already invested so much. I knew the problems I'd face there, and that familiarity was like a warm, if slightly suffocating, blanket. It's daunting, thinking about stepping into the unknown, where the problems you'll face are mysteries yet to unfold.

But the reality is you’re staying at one place and telling yourself it’s safer here because you know how things will turn out. That’s not true. Life is always changing and even though you think working in the school system is a “safe job,” at any given moment your life can change. You could get a new school leader who you can’t stand. Your school could get shut down. Or something can happen to you and you’re unable to return to work.

I invested 15 years of my life in the education system, and though I have no regrets because I learned so much, I know if I had stayed any longer feelings of sadness and frustration were soon to follow.

The Courage to Step Out

But here's the kicker – venturing into the unknown is exactly what we need. It's terrifying, yes. You won’t have all the answers – or any, to start with. But that’s the essence of life’s adventure, isn’t it? Embracing uncertainty with open arms and a heart full of courage.

Earlier today I was eating lunch at a restaurant that has hand written quotes painted on every wall. When I turned to my right and enjoyed the view of the patio and pool, one quote jumped out at me. Translated to English it read:

“Move, and the path will appear.”

That is what I encourage you to do. You have to take the step, just one step at a time, and because you have courage to do that one small thing, the next step will reveal itself to you.

Facing the Mirror

Now, this part is going to sting. It's time to look in the mirror and have a heart-to-heart with yourself. Are you the culprit behind your ‘stuck-ed-ness’? It’s painful to admit, but honesty is the first step towards liberation. If you are, let’s review what you need to do to get un-stuck:

Reflect: Through journaling, therapy, or any other outlet where you can best express yourself, think about what aspects of your life make you feel most stuck and why. Writing or talking about this aloud can help bring you clarity.
Take One Small Step: I’m not saying buy a new house tomorrow or quit your job right now (in fact I prefer you build while you work), but you could set aside 30 minutes to review your budget for buying a house or if you’re thinking about leaving your job, plan a brunch date with one of your teacher friends who left education.
Revise Your Vision: Your thoughts are keeping you stuck. It’s time to draw a new picture for your mind to look at, so make it something filled with the way you actually want to live your life instead of the fears of what you think you can’t accomplish.
Build Your Support: Not everyone in your life wants you to change, so you may have to look elsewhere for the support you need to reach your new goals. (side note: this is exactly why BYOU Membership was created, so you don’t feel alone in this)

What Choice Will You Make?

So, here we are at the crossroads. Stuck or comfortably numb? Victim or architect of our own lives? It’s a choice, a tough one, but it’s yours to make. You’re not as powerless as you think. The first step might be a wobbly one, but it’s a step nonetheless.

Nothing worthwhile is easy, but it’s not impossible. If you need a little nudge or some guidance, download this resource: Everything You Need For Turning Your Hobby Into A Money Making Side Hustle. Remember, every great journey begins with a single, albeit uncertain, step.

And there you have it – a brutally honest, yet hopefully inspiring, call to action. Don't let 'stuck-ed-ness' be your life's theme. Break free, embrace the unknown, and chase those dreams. Because, in the end, the biggest regret is not the missteps we take, but the chances we never take at all.

Are you looking for support to start building your online business? Click here to schedule your free discovery call to learn about my exclusive online program, Breaking Free: From Educator To Entrepreneur.