Life is filled with changes and transitions and, often, we feel that we’re either moving away from something or moving toward something. In the process, we may feel as though we are standing still. Getting yourself unstuck involves reflecting and taking some sort of action to instigate change. Here are some steps to help you out of paralysis. Make sure you’re clear on your goals Reflect on what you are aiming for. Sometimes you get paralyzed trying to figure out what “moving forward” actually means to you. I advocate for setting Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound goals. Try to break down bigger goals into smaller, more manageable ones. Reflect on your values The goals you set with respect to moving forward should really align with your values. Values are the things that are most important to you and can be gleaned when you look back in your life and ask what aspects of my day to day living are consistent? What elements felt fulfilling and in alignment with who I am as a person? Values will make you feel like there is purpose and direction in your life. Make sure you develop a growth mindset The hallmark of a growth mindset is looking at challenges as opportunities rather than roadblocks. In this approach, you foster resilience and the recovery skills needed when things don’t go your way. Small, consistent steps and the commitment to working on one piece of the bigger picture at a time can make the journey more tolerable. In other words, think of setbacks as stepping stones rather than roadblocks. Create a daily routine Discipline often doesn’t pave the way for an exciting life, but when you’re making those daily decisions of what you’re going to do, chances are that it won’t always be motivated by passion or novelty. Be consistent and…KEEP ON TRUCKIN’. Seek out supportive people A big mistake often is to go for these sorts of things alone. It’s much easier to do things with people in your corner. These can be friends, coaches, counsellors, and mentors, and perhaps others that can hold you accountable. Sharing your goals with them can create an added level of responsibility that can motivate you to follow through if for no other reason than wanting to save face in case it didn’t happen.
Embrace Change Growth often calls for change. Be open to new experiences. Whether it’s something as basic as your physical location, to trying new products, or stepping out of your comfort zone, embracing change often pushes you into new, unfamiliar territory which opens up opportunities. Adopt Self-Compassion As you do the work to move forward, remember to be good to yourself. Progress will take time. It may not go as fast as you like, and you may still struggle. Give yourself the space and grace to let it add up. Self-compassion leads to resilience. When you’ve decided to move forward, being kind to yourself is going to give you the grace and stamina to keep pushing toward your desires. Make the Required Changes The key to any form of forward movement is to take action. Start small – make one change today. This could be anything from reconnecting with a friend, watching that webinar that keeps showing up on your feed or signing up for an educational class. Movement in any direction is key to overall progress. Reflect and Adjust Periodically check-in. Are you moving in the right direction? Can you see how all of the moves are working together to push you towards your goal? What isn’t working? These check-ins are important as they allow you to reassess and retool the plan where necessary. Celebrate Your Successes Finally, and most importantly, revel in the victories. Little victories are the ones that remind us that progress is indeed happening. Not only that but when you realize you’re making ground, it only pushes you harder. Moving Forward belongs to us all. Whether you’re progressing in your workplace, or able to resolve your personal challenges, so much satisfaction is obtained when we’re in control of our life. And especially in the realization that you can indeed keep that personal promise to yourself. Rise to the challenge the charts a new course, after all moving forward is just that – moving forward. often slowly with a lot of patience. Remember, it’s a developmental process. Steady your attitude and you’re halfway there.
