Ever Feel Stuck?

Ever feel like you're running in circles, knowing you want more out of life but can't seem to break free from your current situation? Many of my coaching clients come to me feeling exactly like this. Some know what they want to achieve but can't figure out how to get there. Others just aren't happy with where they are in life and can't see a way to make a change. Have you ever felt like that? Maybe you do right now.

Why Do We Feel Stuck?

Most people hit a point in their lives where they feel stuck, sometimes more than once! Whether you're eyeing a new goal or just want out of your current situation, you're never as stuck as you think. Often, we tell ourselves (and others) why we're stuck, but these are usually just excuses. The real reasons are often hidden from our conscious mind.

For example, you might say you can't go for a promotion because the hours don't work for you. But deep down, it might be that you don't feel worthy of the promotion. Or you might think you don't have time to achieve anything because you're so busy, but really, you're overwhelmed by having to choose the best option.

How Can We Get Unstuck?

The first step to getting unstuck is to step back and look at things from a wider, more objective perspective. When you're caught up in the daily grind, it's hard to see clearly.

Take some time away from your daily activities to stop and evaluate your situation. Figure out what options are available to you. This can feel uncomfortable if you're always busy, but without dedicating this time to yourself, nothing will change.

I've written before about why you need to conduct a personal skills audit. It's a great way to figure out a way forward when you're stuck. It helps you think about what you're good at, what opportunities are available, and what's holding you back. For some people, this simple exercise is enough to help them see the path they need to take.

If you find it hard to look at yourself objectively, a profiling tool might help. I use the C-Me behavioural analysis tool with my clients. It's incredibly effective at uncovering why we do what we do because it analyses your preferred behaviours instead of your personality. This helps you understand and change your habits and comfort zones.

Actionable Steps to Get Unstuck

1. Reflect and Identify: Take a step back and assess your situation. What exactly is making you feel stuck?

2. Conduct a Skills Audit: List your strengths, opportunities, and obstacles.

3. Use a Profiling Tool: Tools like C-Me can help you understand your behaviours and how to change them.

4. Create an Action Plan: Outline specific steps to move forward.

5. Seek Support: Find a coach or mentor to provide guidance and accountability.

UK Statistics on Feeling Stuck

In the UK, a significant number of people feel stuck in their careers. According to a survey by Michael Page, over half (51%) of workers feel stagnant in their current roles. Additionally, a study by the London Business School found that nearly 47% of individuals wanted to change their careers but felt unable to do so. These statistics highlight a widespread issue of career dissatisfaction, and the challenges people face in making a change.

How Coaching Helps

Coaching can be incredibly beneficial in helping you get unstuck. Here's how:

1. Objective Perspective: A coach provides an unbiased, outside perspective on your situation, helping you see things more clearly and identify solutions you might not have considered.

2. Expert Guidance: Coaches have the skills, knowledge, and experience to guide you through the process of self-discovery and goal setting. They can help you conduct a personal skills audit, use profiling tools, and create an effective action plan.

3. Accountability: One of the biggest challenges in making changes is staying committed. A coach holds you accountable, ensuring you follow through on your plans and make consistent progress.

4. Support and Encouragement: Coaches offer support and encouragement, helping you stay motivated and confident as you work towards your goals. They can also help you navigate setbacks and challenges along the way.

5. Personalised Approach: Coaching is tailored to your specific needs and goals. A coach works with you to develop strategies that are uniquely suited to your situation, making the process more effective and impactful.

Of course, doing an analysis, whether it's a skills audit or a profiling tool like C-Me, is just the first step. You then need to create an action plan and execute it.

The problem is, it's easy to get stuck again at this point. Without support and accountability, your sense of direction can fade, and you're back at square one. You can ask friends and family for support, but they might be too close to you to be objective (or too opinionated to help you achieve your goals!).

This is where working with a coach, like me, comes in. You'll have someone completely objective, an expert listener with the skills, knowledge, and resources to guide you and get you back on track if you need it.

Ready to Break Free?

Don't let another day go by feeling stuck and unfulfilled. Take the first step towards a brighter future. Conduct a personal skills audit, explore your behaviours with a profiling tool, and create a solid action plan. If you need guidance and support, I'm here to help. Reach out today and let's start your journey to a more fulfilling career. Get in touch today to schedule a no-obligation 30-minute calland discover how we can collaborate to shape your future!