Ever Felt Like You’re Stuck in a Rut?
Have you ever felt like you’ve fallen into a rut and need to shake things up?
It’s a common feeling, especially for entrepreneurs and small business owners. The day-to-day grind can sometimes make us feel as if we’re stuck on a hamster wheel, moving but not getting anywhere.
I understand how frustrating this can be because I’ve been in there. Having started my online business in the fall of 2008, I think it would be almost impossible to say that there have not been times when I felt I was on a hamster wheel.
Each time that happened, I’ve reached out for support. At times, just having discussions with my peers to remind me what has been working and where I need to make changes has helped.
I’ve found that starting with an assessment and self-inquiry to be helpful. Following are some thoughtful questions you could begin to ask yourself:
· What Has Changed? Consider any significant changes in your business or personal life that might have impacted your current state.
- Have I Lost My Passion for What I’m Doing? Reflect on your level of enthusiasm and passion. If it has dwindled, think about when and why it started to happen.
- If My Motivation Has Lessened, Why Has That Happened? Identify specific reasons or events that might have contributed to reducing your motivation.
- Am I Overwhelmed or Burnt Out? Assess whether you may be overwhelmed by responsibilities or burnt out from overworking.
- What Do I Truly Want to Achieve? Reconnect with your core goals and aspirations. Are they still aligned with your current actions and efforts?
For example, I was going through a phase where I was approaching burnout with my various responsibilities in my personal and professional life. I reached out to another coach for support. During our phone call, she asked me to read off the items on my calendar for a week. She kindly and calmly listened as I went through the entire week.
At the end, there was a pause as I waited expectantly for her comments. They were not what I expected. She commented that I was very organized, but I did not mention time for relaxation and time for self-care. That was a wake-up call for me. I immediately became aware of why I was feeling burnout. I was focused on everyone and everything else but myself.
If you feel like life has become predictable, unfulfilling, and boring, maybe it’s time for a fresh start. Deciding to make a change doesn’t mean you have to turn your life upside down, but it is an opportunity to stand back and revise your current way of life.
Whether it’s a lifestyle, location, or career change, there are simple things you can do right now to get out of that rut and get some positive energy back into your life.
1. What Makes you Happy?
Have you ever sat down and carefully thought about what makes you happy or do you go with the flow? What lifts your spirits and puts a spring in your step? What makes your heart sing and your energy levels skyrocket?
Some people feel happiest outdoors, while others prefer sports or reading. Maybe you love the arts or helping people. Make a list of what makes you happy and take action so you can focus on bringing more joy into your life.
2. Practice Saying Yes to Yourself
Most people are so busy with their everyday lives that they don’t make time to get out of their comfort zone and do something different. When was the last time you tried something new or challenging?
Be open to new experiences, start saying yes to yourself, and choose to do things that feel good.
3. Clear the Chaos
Are you surrounded by “stuff”? Look around you right now and see what’s holding you back. Clutter includes spending hours scrolling through social media, limiting beliefs, and lifestyle habits that are not serving you well. And don’t forget the junk in the kitchen drawer or the hall closet you’ve not touched in years.
4. Say No to Fear
One of the most empowering things you can do to get out of a rut is to walk away from fear. Fear will stop you from taking risks and accepting challenges. One of the hallmarks of an entrepreneur is to be willing to take chances and accept challenges, even though the net is not in place.
Fear will make you too afraid to try anything new and will hold you back from reaching your potential.
Commit to yourself to take back control of your life and leap into a fresh start. Remember, small changes can lead to significant transformations.
Thank you for reading.
Here are 3 ways I can support you:
Here are three ways I can support you-
- New Micro Course: Discover “Embrace Persistence for Breakthrough Results” — a comprehensive guide and workbook designed to help you achieve sustained success. Includes a bonus audio version and an exclusive 30-minute 1:1 coaching session. Learn more and get started!
- Personalized Coaching: Book a one-on-one coaching session with me to discuss your business challenges and develop strategies for growth. Schedule your session!
- Free Resources: Access a variety of free resources on my website, including articles and downloadable guides to help you grow your business.
