Feeling stuck?

'Becoming is better than being'  Carol Dweck

What can we do when feeling somewhat stuck or flat? How do we make a shift when something is holding us back? How do we lift the metaphorical heaviness that can descend like an invisible, weighted blanket?  

Throughout this wacky and unsettling time, what has helped you tune in to your needs and supported you to build momentum or create a change of pace? 

For me, it's reminding myself I have a choice - consciously leaning  towards a growth mindset or reinforcing one that is inflexible. It means asking myself, what do I want to be like? How do I want to feel?

Do I choose to be strong, tall, wise and vibrant, like an evergreen that gives and receives, or a dead, hollow trunk that remains static and lifeless?  Despite moments of choosing to enjoy rolling around in some form of negativity, I am always free to make a decision to check myself and take a reset.  

All the while acknowledging the privileged position I'm in, to ponder such things that I do not wish to take for granted. I am one lucky duck!  

I wanted to raise the topic of perspective as we are all experiencing unprecedented times. Aiming for a healthy, positive perspective during such uncertain times can be the difference between us remaining stuck or opening up to possibility and hope.

Try thinking about an issue in a different way, to grant yourself the time and space to explore the opportunities that may be hidden. Or the possibilities that could arise from seeing something through an alternative lens. Compare this to contemplating the same thing and quickly dismissing it, actively or even subconsciously avoiding considering it in a different light, stopping you in your tracks right there and then. 

The choice seems clear. A fixed mindset leaves us with fewer options. An open mindset creates opportunity!

It's all about perspective, sometimes we need reminders.  Other times, it's a little space or someone else to challenge us.

This week I read someone talking about redirecting our gaze, to notice the things that others do not, and to look for the benefits they received from choosing this path. It reminded me to continue looking, questioning and seeing things in a new light. To continue to use my neighbourhood walks along the same route as a conscious practice to look for  what I've previously missed or what has changed. 

Where could you use a reframe? 

A couple of resources below if you're in the mood for contemplating more on strengthening or shifting your mindset.

A quick read for a simple reset practice with the very fun Mel Robbins 

When you've some time for a podcast, two of my absolute favourites Brene & Sinek on mindset  

'Look for the good in every situation, seek the valuable lesson in every setback, look for the solution to every problem. Think and talk continually about your goals.'

Brian Tracy