We often get stuck when we encounter various emotions. And, yes, it’s easy to become paralyzed at a crossroads or get frustrated with potholes and detours.
We all find ourselves stuck from time to time. Ken Coleman says, “You aren’t stuck. You’ve just decided to stay where you are.” If that’s you, what do you need to decide today to leave “where you are”?
So here are some simple responses to common emotional barriers that may stop you or slow you down without realizing it.
OVERTHINKING. I am a champion of the thinking philosophy. Take time to think. Set aside time. Make it a habit and create a boundary. There’s truth that we hurry decisions without considering con
sequences and deliberating outcomes. But it is also true that we can become stalled when we overthink situations. When that happens, start to WRITE your thoughts on paper. You’ll be surprised at what you see; it helps you understand the pros and cons of possible outcomes. Stop getting ready to get ready. And, when you find yourself overthinking a situation, start writing.
BURNOUT. When you can’t seem to go any further or any longer, and you start to encounter burnout…stop. Grab a book and begin to READ. It will calm your soul and re-energize your spirit. Refill, re-energize, and refresh. For some suggestions, see our reading list.
ANGRY. Turn on your favorite MUSIC. If you have Alexa, Siri, YouTube Music, or any other music library source, get it going. Music is like medicine to your soul. It will soothe your anger and calm your mind.
“Life seems to go on without effort when I am filled with music.” ~George Eliott.
STRESSED. We all get overwhelmed or stressed out by life. Get out of your current environment (e.g., home, office, desk, etc.) and go for a WALK. If you can’t get outside due to the weather, go to the mall or an office complex and walk the concourse. Studies show that walking 30 minutes a day can reduce stress and anxiety, improve your mood, help you sleep better, improve cognition and creativity (yes!), and lower the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s. It improves your quality of life.
LONELINESS. Studies show this is a growing epidemic in this age of technology and less face-to-face encounters. So, if this is you, you are not alone. If this is not you, recognize it could be your neighbor or family member. Fight loneliness by REACHING OUT to others—volunteer at church or a local food bank. Reach out to family members (different ones) every day. Bake cookies for friends or neighbors. Pick up some cookies from the local grocery store if you don’t cook. Write cards or join a group where you can meet in person.
SADNESS. When you feel sad about your situation, your progress, a family situation, a work-related issue, or life in general, MOVE. Exercise. You don’t have to do a rigid, rugged, Insanity or P-90X workout. But you need to MOVE. Walk, ride a bike, clean the garage, sweep the driveway, or work in the garden. Do something that requires you to move your muscles and raise your blood pressure a little.
ANXIOUS. If you start to worry or become concerned about something that hasn’t happened yet — that’s the definition of anxiety — stop and MEDITATE and CONTEMPLATE. Put your phone and computer away and get quiet. Invest in you. Spend quiet time watching the birds, squirrels, or wind blow through the trees. What is the advice you always give to others? Do that! Take the challenge. “Never think twice about investing in yourself. It will pay dividends for a lifetime.” ~Chris Robinson.
TIRED. Listen to your body. If it’s telling you it’s tired, take heed. TAKE A NAP. It doesn’t matter how old you are or how ridiculous you may feel stopping during a busy day. Your body will thank you. A fifteen-minute nap will set you up for the rest of your day. You can change your outlook and jumpstart your day with a quick nap. Leave your phone in the next room, close the door, grab a blanket, close your eyes, and stop, breathe, relax, and recharge.
LAZY. Are you finding yourself not wanting to live up to life’s responsibilities? STEP AWAY from the TV, video games, Facebook, and anything with a screen. You’ll find that those time suckers are stealing from you. Build up your self-esteem: Write down the things you are grateful for. Find someone who will encourage you and build you up. Discover what you’re passionate about. Ask yourself: Who or what can help me with these things?
