by Thanh Pham of Asian Efficiency
If you’re stuck and you don’t know how to rise, don’t look outside yourself. Look inside.
Have you ever felt like you were racing around in circles without making much forward progress? I know I have, many times. In the past I caught myself feeling stuck more often than I wanted to admit, and eventually I knew I needed to find a new roadmap. I was feeling utterly depressed and trapped by the same old problems and scenery. I needed to free myself!
The first thing I learned as I struggled to find my way is this:
Fear is the cage that keeps you stuck. Faith is the key that sets you free.
And the second thing I learned is that getting unstuck isn’t just a single action – it’s a process – a life-changing journey. And all journeys begin with a call to adventure, and this call is different for all of us.
Here are ten strategies (“calls”) that I’ve successfully implemented over the years to help clients and myself get unstuck, mentally and physically, even when doing so seemed impossible.
1. Relocate Yourself to an Inspiring Environment
One of the simplest ways to get unstuck is to simply shift your environment.
For example, if you went from this:
To this:
Your mind and state of … “stuck” … would shift rapidly.
And the great thing is, it doesn’t have to be that dramatic a shift. You can go for a walk in a nearby park. You can jet out of the office for a cup of coffee. Or if you’re at home, you can simply go to a different room in the house.
Two of my favorite things to do when I’m feeling stuck on a particular task are:
- Going to a nearby park for a 45-minute power-walk in the woods.
- Meditating for 20 minutes in the back the city library, and then reading a chapter or two of a great book.
We live in an amazing world and we are all blessed with inspiring environments around us – especially those of us fortunate enough to live in developed countries. Whether it’s urban spaces, parks, libraries, museums or even our own backyards, there are plenty of available sources that we can draw inspiration and strength from.
2. Go Back to What’s Important
One of the models that we use to help clients and customers at Asian Efficiency is the idea of core values, beliefs and goals.
As a quick overview:
- Core Values are the big ideals that we have, like benchmarks for happiness, generosity, or success.
- Beliefs are the hundreds and thousands of smaller things we believe in, whether it’s “the sun will rise tomorrow morning” or “people should treat others as they would like to be treated.”
- Goals are the outcomes in life that we strive for.
When we get stuck, it can be extremely useful to come back to these three things: core values, beliefs and goals. Why? Because they form the fabric of what is important to us as individuals. They act as a reminder of who we are, how we got to where we are now, and what it is that will carry us forward into the future, no matter what may come our way.
3. Follow the White Rabbit
“Follow the white rabbit.”
– Trinity, The Matrix
In both The Matrix and the original Through the Looking Glass, “follow the white rabbit” refers to following whatever inspires us.
It can be an idea, a hunch… or anything else. Even the tiniest, most seemingly insignificant thought can spiral into a masterpiece of creation, if we let it.
Whether it’s an article on www.marcandangel.com, an incredibly inspirational quote, or a comment or story from a friend, we can take something small and use it to break free of limiting thought patterns.
Our company name, Asian Efficiency, comes from a small, humorous comment that my friend Nick made ten years ago – “The only reason you guys are efficient is because you’re Asian.” Ten years later, we’ve helped hundreds of thousands of people around the world become more efficient, productive and live happier and more fulfilling lives. And no, they’re not all Asian! 😉
4. Believe in the Universe, and Practice Patience
“There are no accidents.”
– Oogway, Kung Fu Panda
When we’re stuck it can sometimes feel like universe is working against us – the people around us, the world at large, and definitely the circumstances we find ourselves in.
It’s important to have belief – to have faith, trust and hope – that the universe is not a bad place, or for that matter, a good place. The universe simply IS. But what the universe does do is reward people who nurture the positive, patiently. If you firmly believe that positive things can happen, they gradually will. If you firmly believe that you can get unstuck and move onward, you gradually will.
Focus on what you can control, and let the greater powers handle the uncontrollable circumstances. With enough time, effort and learning, the universe will present you with a solution. So continue being patient through your growth process. And as Marc and Angel say in 1,000 Little Things Happy, Successful People Do Differently:
“Remember, patience is not about waiting around, it’s the ability to keep a positive attitude while working hard for what you believe in.”
5. Embrace the Natural Pathways
One of the core things that we help clients with at Asian Efficiency is the construction of Systems.
Now most people think of systems as something mechanical or man-made – something cold, without soul, and machine-like. This couldn’t be further from the truth. You see, all a system is, really, is a way of working things out – of getting unstuck.
In fact, a system is nothing more than a natural pathway of thought that someone has created with their mind.
Whether it’s a system for making a cup of tea, a system for overcoming fear, or a system for managing a team of people, a system is simply a way of thinking that someone has created – and that other people now use to help them accomplish certain tasks or overcome certain challenges.
So when you get stuck, there’s no need to go back to the drawing board. Ask the people around you about the systems that are working for them, read insightful books and blog articles, and use the same methods and pathways that others have used to get unstuck.
6. Ask for Help
One of the biggest secrets of highly happy and successful people is that they didn’t get there by themselves. Very often, they have a supporting cast of friends, family, mentors and others who help them thrive. All details aside, they always ask for help when they need it, and they enjoy helping others who genuinely want to succeed as well.
When you ask someone for help, you aren’t bothering them, or being a nuisance – you are creating the possibility that 1+1 = more than 2. Because, as human beings, we learn when we teach too – we learn in our roles as both a teacher and a student.
At Asian Efficiency, one of our core values is Pull Others Up. This means that whenever we’re able to, we want to help others succeed. We want to “pull them up” so to speak. And we love doing it. There’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing others we have helped do as well as we have, or even better.
When you’re stuck, don’t be afraid to ask for help. And don’t be afraid to reach out and help someone who’s even more stuck than you.
7. Break the Cycle of Worry and Work on Something Else
One of the amazing things about productivity and efficiency that I discovered early on in my personal journey is the power of Creative Procrastination. This is also known as “working on something else.”
When you have an arduous task ahead of you, like having a difficult conversation with someone, you’ll find that you want to procrastinate. This is perfectly normal, and understandable. In fact, in many cases you should procrastinate and give yourself enough time to get your thoughts right – but do it resourcefully. Instead of just sitting there stumped and hiding from this person, go do something else that invigorates your mind and allows you to think more freely – perhaps journaling, meditating, painting, playing guitar, or exercising.
You have to let your mind and body to connect, process and prepare for the arduous task ahead. By keeping your attention focused on the right things, it will do exactly that, and when you come back later, you’ll find yourself better able to handle the arduous task with less stress and anxiety.
8. Respect Your Frequency
One of the tenets of Eastern Philosophy, in particular, Taoism, is that we all have a natural frequency that we vibrate and respond to.
If you find yourself stuck, it could simply be that you are currently off-frequency for some reason.
We are all beings of unlimited potential, but we were most definitely not designed to do everything. We all have things that we’re naturally drawn to, talents that come easy to us, and skills that we’ve mastered.
You need to respect your natural frequency and tendencies. Some people perform at their best in solitude, while others perform at their best while surrounded by others. Some people are great at pulling things apart and then putting them back together, while others are great at assembling creative masterpieces on a blank canvas.
When you find yourself stuck, you could be in the wrong environment, working under the wrong conditions, or very simply, in the wrong state of mind. To get unstuck, you just need to think, reassess, and then try something a little different – make a small shift in your approach or routine. See how it goes for a month and then reassess things again.
9. Walk Through the Door
“I’m trying to free your mind, Neo. But I can only show you the door. You’re the one that has to walk through it.”
– Morpheus, The Matrix
Sometimes all we need to get unstuck is to simply take the next step in our journey. Almost always, the barriers that we have in front of us are psychological – not physical. There are no material walls, gates or barricades stopping us from moving forward. When this is the truth in your life, all you need to do is take the metaphorical “next step.” You have to get yourself moving in the right direction again, one small step at a time.
At Asian Efficiency, we call this Solar Flaring – the idea that a solar flare on the sun begins small, but that once it starts moving, it explodes with energy and motion. All it needs is that tiny bit of momentum to get things going.
10. Begin Again in the Morning
“Success consists of getting up just one more time than you fall.”
– Oliver Goldsmith
If you find yourself truly stuck today, and you’ve worked yourself to exhaustion, remember, tomorrow morning is a new beginning.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with stopping, refilling your bucket, sleeping, and starting fresh again in the morning.
Tomorrow is another opportunity to try again and learn something new.
This is NOT failure, and it’s not giving up. This is the process of learning. It’s being a smart, intelligent, living being and recognizing that sometimes it’s better to rest and to try again when you’re fresh.
Your turn (and a FREE GIVEAWAY drawing)…
What would you add to this list?
What do you do to free your mind, motivate yourself, and make tiny bits of progress when you’re feeling stuck?
Leave a comment below and share your thoughts with the community, and you will be automatically entered into a free drawing to win paperback versions of Thanh’s three favorite productivity books shipped to your front door (Getting Things Done, Eat That Frog!, and Switch).
Here’s how the drawing will work: We will print out all the reader comments individually, fold them up, put them into a box, and randomly draw one winner out of the box next Sunday evening (Oct. 18th) at 8PM EST. Then, a comment will be added below with the winner’s name, we will email them to get their shipping address, and finally the three books mentioned above (that Thanh graciously donated to us for this free giveaway) will be shipped.
Author Bio: This is a guest post by Thanh Pham of Asian Efficiency. He is a passionate coach, writer and entrepreneur who has helped thousands of people become more productive, more successful, and happier in their lives, one day at a time. Get his free Productivity Toolbox here.
Hanni says
Thank you very for the inspiring articles especially the day article. Am really on the stuck situation and before reading this article almost had given up my life but I now feel as a reborn
Thanks
Raymond says
When I am feeling stuck I meditate on world of God to get me going, and your article also help me a lot. bless, you are a great inspiration. Thanks and God bless.
James says
Thanks again. I now have a word, an adjective to describe the situation I have been in for quite some time: stuck. One of the greatest sources of my worry and misery (and depression) is my lingering observation that things do not seem to happen favorably (to me) anymore. (Most) things oftentimes just end up wrong. Sometimes, I feel like I have become the whipping boy of the fates. So number 4 above is my own personal truth at this point. I also keep telling myself that everything will be fine, everything will be better, I will be OK every time adverse things come along my way. I just find it hard to believe in these anymore, at times. So there goes the same word for me again: stuck. I wish for the universe to be kinder to me again….
Cindi Lea says
Hang in there, James. Keep reading http://www.marcandangel.com and Asian Efficiency and like articles and books. Look to the Universe for help. There are so many positive things around you just hanging out waiting for you to grab them. They won’t be big at first but they are there. Look for smiles and smile back. If someone isn’t smiling call them out on it! That always brings a smile to people’s face. Well, almost always! I’ve been going through the process of getting unstuck for 2 full years now and I’m just now at a place in life where I can see light everywhere I go. It takes work but it sounds like you are on the right path! Keep the faith! The Universe needs your spirit alive not broken! Much Love, Cindi Lea
Jon Colt says
I really appreciate Thanh Pham’s ten steps to getting unstuck, because they came along right when I needed them. I’ve been feeling very stuck and they point to my strategy for getting unstuck. That is by surrounding myself with everything that points me in the right direction. What’s amazing is by consciously doing this, the things I need present themselves at just the right time and place. Thank you!
Thanh Pham says
Surrounding yourself with the right people and putting yourself in a situation to succeed are really important. It’s something I cannot stress enough. It makes life so much easier when you don’t have to think as much when you’re just surrounded by the right things and people.
Natasha says
“Follow the white rabbit”.. so simple but so much behind it! I’m addicted to this quote now.. possible tattoo idea!
Kim Willis says
What a refreshing post this is!
Great to see you referencing the Matrix movie too.
As someone who feels stuck on a regular basis what I do is to watch a topic relevant video, or read a couple of great blogs posts. That usually helps -and fast. The creative juices start flowing and before I know it, I’m back into ‘the zone’ again.
Cheers,
Kim
Melissa says
I have been “stuck” for years. I try to remind myself that each day is a new day.
Connie Warner says
I think these Steps provide good guidelines for getting ‘Unstuck’. Just changing my environment for awhile does wonders for my mind– which is why I sometimes drive about 8 minutes to the Bayfront to watch the Waves! ?
William Horne says
I’ve been coming to your web site for several months. I take notes on envelopes (that are recycled junk mail) and when folded, they fit perfectly in my back pocket. I will go for a power walk in the near by park. Endorphins kick in after a while and I will pull out some of my notes from your web site and read them again and again and again. It helps me to know that these notes are there for me any time I need them. The encounters with other hikers from all over the world and many ethnic origins helps me feel part of the bigger picture…. the world. Sometimes hikers have their pet dogs with them and are almost always friendly. Over hearing positive comments made from others helps me feel good about myself. I realized that no matter what you drove up in, what sized home you live in or how much money you have. Out on the trail we are all subject to the same things as everyone else. If health has not been a concern for you then it shows. As for me it’s an unexpected bonus of reinforcement. It’s like all the little ways of tweaking and improving my diet and exercises have paid off. I want the inspiring and positive notes in my back pocket to do the same thing…. tweaking and improving all areas of my life. It’s the same lifetime commitment, to keep at it and do your best. I know I’m going to be better because of it. Marc and Angel have done so much to help others find that focus. I personally can’t thank you both enough!!!
christine pay says
#9 for sure! It’s freeing when you finally realize that the only thing stopping you, many times ,from achieving goals is your own mind. For me, its usually something I’m afraid of such as what others will think. Ugh! Thanks for the list!
Leann says
Thank you for the refreshing perspective. When I am stuck on a task, or find it very challenging, I practice relaxing breathing techniques. Close my eyes, breathe from the diaphragm, and imagine myself in my relaxing place. In about 10 minutes I am usually up for the next challenge.
Judith says
I dropped over to your website, Thanh, after watching your video with Marc and Angel. You have some very helpful “tools” and practical advice to follow and I loved the “eat the frog” quote. It certainly has helped me get unstuck by scheduling and breaking down into small bits the most urgent task (due to procrastination) of a significant project. Also, I have stopped attending to my inbox as the priority of others and instead actioning my own To Do List – so effective. Thank you.
Umaru Muhammed Yussif says
when I’m stuck, i stop thinking of the thing that made me stuck and be with friends that i can make me smile and laugh a lot. Then i’ll focus my mind on what i want to achieve that i cant move on before going to bed.
i always wake up with the right solution in the morning.
Pita Allen says
The mind is the most power full tool we have , when there’s two or more positive minds working together ,with one goal of understanding the happiness that we can have in our life’s ,is the intension of our Heavenly Father intended for us , results are mind blowing and soul building , the happiness of life is what we make of it , and how much we want it ..
Katrina says
when I’m feeling stuck I’ll turn to my favorite blogs to be inspired on how to stay positive and keep other thoughtful ways of thinking. Why I read this blog post tonight!
Claire says
I free myself by spending time with my people — my tribe. I have found my tribe and they help me stay on track. I found them of all places on Instagram! I started posting what was true to me and lo and behold my tribe found me! We’re planning a retreat in 2016!
Donna Lynn says
I love this list! Perfect for getting unstuck.
I’d add “cut cords.” As energetic beings, sometimes our energies get mixed up with others, whether intentional or not. Take time daily to disconnect from emotional drains by imagining that you’re Edward Scissorhands. Get your scissors up and snip along the perimeter of your aura, in all directions. When you’re done, you should be able to breathe a little easierand feel lighter.
Zoe says
Thank you so much for your insight. For me it is a map and tools to find my way. Sometimes I find that spending time outdoors with my dog is very helpful to reset and refocus the thoughts in my mind. Unconditional love and some play time do it!! Thanks again.
Bill says
When we were discouraged or overwhelmed as children (aka: stuck), my mother would say, “Get some exercise, eat a good meal, and get a good rest and it will all be more manageable in the morning.” I have practiced that for 50 years and it always works.
Karan Agarwal says
Feeling stuck is another temporary setback sometimes resulting from things not going in the planned way and when hope starts getting unclear, maybe sometimes it’s due to mingled thoughts and confused state of mind but being stuck temporarily becomes a setback only when it goes far beyond from just being temporary and to avoid letting this happen, according to me what comes as a first step is identifying the cause because mostly it’s not the unavailability of answer to a question that frustrates but not getting and understanding the right question to find an answer of.
So what I do to find out that right question is running to get a pen and paper, finding a silent place and noting down all the thoughts, events occurred to me recently that possibly could be the reason(s) for getting stuck and after analyzing I prefer to take a nap to divert my mind and make a new start.
Sarah Varian Barry says
After years of anxiety that had me rivited to the spot, I finally found someone to guide me. My answer is to spend time alone. Silence is hard at first. The mind races on. However the end results are amazing. It’s learning to love yourself that is essential. I have been accused as selfish . I don’t care.
When I was ready to join the rat race again I found my real friends waiting.
Care of the self is essential.
Robin says
I’ve been stuck for a few years and I just moved to Austin, TX. It’s been refreshing and seems to have opened my eyes to the bigger picture in life. I’m trying to find my calling. Although the move has been very hard on me, I’m excited to what I can do. When I feel stuck I will read uplifting quotes or posts, listen to a good book on audible, or just listening to some good Christian music can change my mood! I hope to see you in January at the conference in Austin!!
Judy says
I’m not into Christian music, but I, too, just moved near Austin to Buda to get unstuck from a long term situation. I enjoy reading and listening to Audible. When I read about the conference in Austin, I went immediately to my calendar and put it on there. Maybe we’ll meet there. Good luck on your new adventure in life!
Laura says
I pray when I am feeling stuck. Like #4 says, I firmly believe that positive things can happen. I don’t know what my path entails but I am being patient–not just by waiting around, but my working hard and doing what I believe in. I find such comfort in knowing that I am not the only one that feels stuck and unsure of her future! Thank you for all the words of wisdom!!
Tina says
I like to take a what I call, nature/meditation walk and remind myself to “choose love” and that the universe is conspiring in my favor. Only good lies before me and that abundance flows into my life in surprising and miraculous ways every day. Lots of belly breathes and smiles while I appreciate whats around me.
Beverly says
The best thing that I can do when I am feeling depressed or down in the dumps is to get up and go do something to make someone else happy. Whenever I , do it gives me a feeling like I had a positive purpose” for the day.
Jackie Ballay says
Love #1 and #2! I would add daily prayer to your points! Thank you and Marc and Angel for the daily inspirations! 🙂
Judy says
I was stuck in a situation for years in which I was unhappy. Finally, it took me getting extremely angry at the situation to get the courage to make a change. If nothing else, get angry and create courage by making changes one step at a time. Get your stubborn on and refuse to let anyone affect your decision.
Marc Chernoff says
Judy, congratulations YOU are the WINNER of the free book giveaway! 🙂
I just sent you an email.
Kim says
When I’m feeling stuck I try to remember it’s only a temporary state. Taking walks is always helpful to clear the fog. I tell myself that quitting is a permanent solution for a temporary state. What would be on the other side of that? When I get to that point I ask for help. Thank you for this inspiring list!!
Layna says
I like a change of scenery..I go outside and goof off and be a kid again..the time in your life when everything was possible and then remember it still is…it’s just that you forgot your inner child, so relax and you’ll get figure it out..kickball anyone?
Theresa says
When I’m feeling stuck I sing along with one of my favorite worship songs on Youtube. One that I can really feel moves my soul & often the ones with beautiful nature photos.
Amanda LaRose says
There are two things that I would like to add or embellish upon your wonderful suggestions on how to get “unstuck”.
The first is to always remember that everything is temporary. In New England, where I live, we have a saying; “If you don’t like the weather, wait a minute”. This is very true in the literal sense but it also has a greater meaning in the fleeting moment of “now”. Take comfort in the fact that not-so-great occurrences are temporary and also revel in the wondrous moments knowing that they too will change.
The second suggestion that I have is more personal based on the analytical personality that I possess that others may not. When I have a situation in front of me I brainstorm. I may choose some close people in my life to get opinions from or I go it alone, but either way I just think of all of the ways that I can change the situation at hand. Even if I don’t like some of my options. I then look the options and see if there really is anything that I can do to help the situation or if I need to adjust my feeling about it. Every problem has a solution…you just have to be brave enough to move towards it.
Catharine says
the sea .. the water .. the waves ..
i find myself freest when paddling onto the face of a wave and making a connection with a wind driven force that began thousands of miles from me … the pure liquid joy, the communion with a natural force .. the simple uncomplicated total focus on the moment frees my my mind from all congested thoughts …
it’s there for me .. that clear space .. on the face of a wave ……
Lilian says
I listen to my favorite playlists and dance around the living room with myself,, like crazy. Music is always liberating and gives us a totally new mood and a boost of energy!
Nurul Najwa says
Thanks Thanh for sharing your personal strategies for getting ‘unstuck’. I especially love the last one: Begin Again in the Morning, as I feel that that resonates the most with me.
Julie says
A lot of times I have found that feeling stuck can just be a matter of timing. If I feel like I’m doing everything I can mentally and physically to move forward but nothing is changing I need to realize that other forces are at work and I have to have patience. There are things going on that we’re not always aware of.
Marie says
Thx for the inspiring post I read on a very rainy, holiday Monday with a family-less day ahead of me as they live in a different part of the country. I particularly liked #1 which can just be taking a different route to/from work and generally mixing it up to feel more alive! Also the “follow the white rabbit” one which reminds us to follow our dreams & passions. I sent it to 3 important people in my life who are part of my “tribe” of like-minded close friends who are on a similar path of getting more out of life by living more fully and giving back to others. We all have different stories, some dealing with great loss and addiction in their family, and others have gone through this in the past.. These challenges have inspired and induced us to dig deeper into what life is truly about. After all this time, I could sum it up in a single word: LOVE
for ourselves and for others!! Power to you and all those reading and commenting.
Lynne says
I am not stuck today, but I’m worrying about getting stuck. I just applied for retirement and have a long list of things I want to do when I am. Your article, which I’ve printed out, will help me. Follow the white rabbit!
Carla says
Asking for help is not a nuisance…aligns with my new mantra this week. I’ve rebranded my thinking from fear of hearing no and bothering people to “not asking” is the failure.
Suzanne says
I am grateful to you for posting this inspiring list of techniques. No. 9 is my biggest challenge, but practicing 1, 2, 5, 7, & 10 have been helpful for me. Taking the dog for a walk, doing a load of laundry, or washing the dishes by hand gives me a short break from that thing I am avoiding, as well as a change in environment and the opportunity to feel productive in some area of my life. I’ll also take 20 minutes to watch a TED Talk, listen to a podcast or read a relevant blog to inspire me and get me back to focusing on the positive and the possible. Lastly, recognizing and feeling grateful for little accomplishments so far that day (the eggs I made for my son this morning were magazine cover worthy, I know what I’m making for dinner and have all the ingredients, I am not still wearing my pajamas…) can interrupt my thoughts of overwhelm and propel me into action. Thank you!
Denise says
Just smile!! Even if you don’t want to, or even laugh. Your mind can’t tell the difference between a fake laugh and a real laugh so it’ll have the same effect!! Try it it’s surprising how quickly your mood can shift to a better one It relaxes your face muscles instantly.
Keep smiling!
Karen says
When i am feelng stuck and can’t seem to get moving i focus on someone else. Someone who i know has a bigger problem than i do. If i go spend a morning at a homeless shelter i ALWAYS see my own situation in a more positive light.
Karalee Greer says
Being stuck is not a comfortable place to be and I’ve discovered through my own self-development work that the discomfort is my body telling me I need to make a change. I’ve put into practice many of the suggestions in this post. What has also helped me get unstuck is addressing my fears by allowing my mind to go to the experience I fear will happen ( like rejection) and then realize I can survive that. My belief system can shift so the fear doesn’t stop me going forward. My thoughts become more positive.
Salome Santos says
Everytime I felt stuck and when I felt i’m in the edge, dead end – I keep my mind in silent mode in order to focus in one thing,to be unstuck. Setting my mind,go back into basic, and I read all the e-mails from Marc and Angel Hack life that I have printed out for files, I used to print anything I’ve read about life coaching, so when stuck, those stuff are very useful as a tool. I used to write in my journal the problem of being stuck, in order for me to list down all possible solutions, including back up plans, I make it realistic and make it possible to be done. To be more effective of getting unstuck, I start visualizing my plan to a new life changing. In addition, making a solution for being stuck and you want to re – route your life, I consider the love of my life, they are the reason and inspiration – my KIDS. Broken marriage makes me learned many things. I was able to learned and make my system in order to keep me in balance. Yes, to be unstuck is a long process. Just keep the faith.
Bridget Lee says
Thanks for sharing all the wonderful insights in this article. I’d love to be able to put many of the ideas into action, but I can’t. I’ve gotten myself into a horrible situation, with no means of escape. I’m hoping each day that things will get better, but they don’t; they only get worse. It got so bad a few days ago, I called the police in hopes of getting some help. Rather than getting any help, the officers called me childish, and went on their way, after telling me to go to court. Any ideas or suggestions to get me some help would be so greatly appreciated.
Phil Sidotti says
Recently, a trio of significant life events came at me in a short period of time: I retired, lost both my parents to aging and then my life partner of 33 years left for greener pastures. Everything of importance in my life was swept away in a flash.
As the initial shock wore off, I read Marc and Angel’s email tips that kept me afloat. Then I purchased “1,001 Little Things…” The positive thoughts in the book fed my inner strength and soon my adventurous spirit kicked in. I took a series of solo trips that helped immeasurably. I gradually shed my identity as a son and partner. Not being confined to my former roles
led to the emergence of my singular identity. Who am I now…and what path do I take?
I don’t yet have the answers but I’m patiently moving forward on my journey. Your message today about finding my “tribe” was exactly what I needed to hear. I’ll keep my eyes open for them as I move toward my goal.
Thank you Marc and Angel and also to you Thanh. I hope to see you in Austin
Helen says
Another great article. Thank you so much for continually putting out great material.
Joci James says
Shine your flickering light on someone or something else, the flame will instantly get better.
Aakanksha says
The thing I do when I feel stuck is simply say myself that it’s just a phase, and once in a lifetime, everyone has to go through a similar phase, and all that matters is how one handles himself and how much time time it takes him to overcome from that phase. It’s kind of a test and I need to perform well.
And believe me, it helps!
Joshua says
II tell myself daily that I can only “control the controllable”. My thoughts, feelings, emotions, and reactions are all things I control. If I can do such even during stressful and negative situations then I can be content. For some humor I also have to remind myself that ” common sense is not common”.
Kristine Adams says
Excellent, worthy reminders! Living at edge of woods, far from cities or even towns, I empathize with those who come to the writing workshops I’ve led for a few years. Less than a handful (-5) people are my “tribe,” in one sense. But like venn diagram, I cross many other fields of shared interests. Always visible when looking with heart.
Rhonda says
When I am feeling stuck and overwhelmed I focus on all the positives in my life. I also write down all the spinning thoughts in my head, which allows me to free my mind. I love reading all your emails and find them to helpful at all the right times.