Sometimes you need to get outside of your own head to get ahead.
The below are some general strategies that may help you overcome being stuck. I would like to say you could gain control over your life with the following tips and strategies, but you and I both know there is really not a lot we can control in this world. If you start with self-management, you are on the right track.
Tip: Like going to the gym, you will not improve unless you do some work… the heavy lifting! Your mind is no different, it’s a part of your body, you need to give it a good workout consistently with a trainer, at least to start with or it gets stuck in a belief, behavioral loop.
Self-management is key.
Set clear goals: Clearly define what you want to achieve in different areas of your life, such as career, health, relationships, etc. Having specific goals can motivate you and give you direction.
Break tasks into smaller steps: large tasks can be overwhelming and contribute to procrastination. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps. This makes them less daunting and helps you stay focused.
Prioritise and plan: Make a to-do list or schedule to prioritise your tasks. Determine what needs to be done first and allocate time accordingly. This helps you stay organised and prevents feeling overwhelmed.
Create a routine: Establishing a consistent daily routine can provide structure and help you develop discipline. Include time for work, exercise, leisure, and self-care. Stick to your routine as much as possible.
Manage your environment: Create an environment that supports productivity. Minimise distractions, organise your workspace, and eliminate unnecessary clutter. A clean and organised environment can help you stay focused and motivated. Tip: Your car is a thinking space most people are in their car on average 1hr a day, keep it clean and tidy. A cluttered space can contribute to you feeling overwhelmed and overwhelmed can be a catalysed for feeling stuck
Practice self-managment: Train yourself to overcome the urge to procrastinate or engage in unproductive activities. This may involve setting deadlines, using time management techniques, or implementing strategies like the Pomodoro Technique (working in focused bursts with short breaks).
What is the Pomodora Technique?
Tip: If you have been diagnosed with ADHD and find it hard to start something, this may help.
- Identify a task or tasks that you need to complete.
- Set a timer for 25 minutes.
- Work on a task with no distractions.
- When the alarm sounds, take a 5-minute break.
- Repeat the process 3 more times.
- Take a longer 30-minute break and start again.
Find your motivation: Understand what drives you and find ways to stay motivated. This could be visualising your goals, rewarding yourself for accomplishments, or seeking support from others.
Tip: Create a vision board for some people it is hard to hit a target they cannot see.
Take care of your physical and mental well-being: Feeling stuck can sometimes be a result of physical or mental exhaustion. Prioritise adequate sleep, exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and practice stress management techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises.
What is an example of a Deep Breathing Technique?
The 4-7-8 (or Relaxing Breath) Exercise
- Exhale completely through your mouth, making a whoosh sound.
- Close your mouth and inhale quietly through your nose to a mental count of four.
- Hold your breath for a count of seven.
- Exhale completely through your mouth, making a whoosh sound to a count of eight.
Remember that overcoming feeling stuck, requires effort and consistency. Implementing these strategies may help you develop self-management skills and that will feel amazing! It’s always a good idea to consult with a qualified professional, for personalised guidance and support.
You may need to drill down on other areas of your life like Nutrition, Exercise, Self-growth, learning and social interaction.
Healthy diet: A nutritious diet that includes whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can provide essential nutrients for brain health. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, nuts, and seeds, have been associated with improved cognitive function. Avoid excessive sugar and processed foods, as they can have a negative impact on brain health. Good quality non processed food plays a huge part in good mental health and QOL Quality of Life
Note: A study our of SA University Exercise more effective than medicines to manage mental health – News and events – University of South Australia (unisa.edu.au) On the back of this study I have introduce Walk and Talk Counselling Therapy. Perfect for those people who are time poor, who want to seek professional help, but they don’t have time to exercise and get out in the elements. Not everyone wants to be an athlete. Gentle exercise is better than no exercise for your physical and mental health.
Learning and intellectual stimulation: Engage in activities that challenge and stimulate your brain, such as learning a new skill, solving puzzles, reading, or engaging in creative pursuits. Continuous learning and intellectual stimulation can promote neuroplasticity and enhance cognitive abilities.
What is Neuroplasticity?
It is defined as the ability of the nervous system to change its activity in response to intrinsic or extrinsic stimuli by re-organising its structure, functions, or connections.
Social interaction: Regular social interaction and meaningful connections with others have been linked to improved brain health and overall well-being.
Tip: Your environment and the people you mix with will have a huge impact on who you are “Being” not necessarily” Doing.
Do you have health anxiety or social anxiety? Are you drinking alcohol to excess or overeating? Are you getting frustrated, angry and hard to live with? You may need help to understand your
BE- DO- ME equation.
Engaging in social activities, join clubs or groups with shared interests, and maintain healthy relationships.
Boosting serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain can have a positive impact on mood, motivation, and overall well-being.
However! Spiking dopamine levels consistently will have a negative effect on your mental health and your personality, effecting others around you. If you are constantly craving and feeling you need more of something… you may be unbalanced, check your eg; sugar intake, online shopping, porn use, gaming time screen time, to start with.