10 Things You Can Do if You're Stuck in a Life and Money Rut
Remember to be patient and kind to yourself along the way, and to celebrate small wins.
10 Things You Can Do if You're Stuck in a Life and Money Rut
Feeling stuck in your career, life, and finances can be discouraging, but it happens to the best of us. There could be many reasons why someone might feel stuck or like they are in a rut in their life. Some common causes include:
Boredom or monotony: Doing the same thing day after day can lead to feelings of boredom and dissatisfaction. When people feel like they are not growing or learning, it can cause stagnation and frustration.
Unfulfilled expectations: People may feel stuck because they expected certain outcomes or milestones that didn't materialize, leading to disappointment or uncertainty. For example, a graduate who doesn't land their dream job right away or a person whose relationships haven't developed as quickly as they hoped.
Feeling burnt out: Constant stress, overwork, and exhaustion can all lead to burnout, causing people to lose interest in their work or other aspects of their lives. They may feel trapped in a cycle of fatigue and disillusionment.
Lack of motivation or purpose: Without clear direction or motivation, people may struggle to find meaning in their daily routines and become disconnected from their passions and interests. A sense of aimlessness can lead to feelings of being stuck or lost.
Personal crisis or changes: Life transitions such as moving, losing a job, getting married, having kids, or experiencing a loss can all cause people to question their identity and place in the world. This uncertainty can manifest as a period of feeling uncertain or unsure of what comes next.
Feeling like you're in a rut is a common experience, but there are steps you can take to get out of it. Consider the following:
Take care of yourself: When you feel stuck in a rut, it's essential to take care of yourself. Self-compassion is critical to mental wellness1. Take time to exercise, eat healthy, and get enough sleep. These small steps can help you feel better and more energized.
Transform your mindset: According to Tony Robbins, transforming your mindset is key to getting out of a rut in life. Start by identifying negative thoughts and replacing them with positive ones. Focus on your strengths and accomplishments, and set achievable goals to help you move forward.
Reframe your perspective: Psychologists recommend reframing your perspective to a more positive and productive one. Try to see challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. Focus on what you can control, and let go of what you can't.
Retrace your thoughts: If you're feeling stuck in your career, it may be helpful to retrace your thoughts back to the moment when you felt inspired. Recall your inspiration, and perhaps even journal about it to make it feel more tangible. This can help you reconnect with your passion and purpose.
Break your finances into tiny action steps: If you're feeling stuck in your finances, it can be helpful to break them into tiny action steps. Start by checking your bank account, creating a budget, and setting financial goals. Celebrate small wins along the way to help you stay motivated.
Embrace regret: According to Psychology Today, embracing regret can help you set achievable goals1. Reflect on past mistakes and use them as motivation to set goals that align with your values and priorities.
Understand your comfort zone: It's important to understand your comfort zone and push yourself just beyond it when setting goals. This can help you grow and develop new skills.
Set attainable goals: Set goals that are realistic and attainable1. Break them down into smaller, more manageable steps, and celebrate small wins along the way.
Use mental contrasting: Psychologists recommend using mental contrasting to help you set achievable goals. Visualize your desired outcome, and then identify potential obstacles and how you will overcome them.
Get support: Getting support from friends, family, or a coach can help you stay accountable and motivated. They can also provide valuable feedback and encouragement along the way.
Climbing out of a mental rut requires action and a proactive approach, which can be dificult if it’s compounded by mental health issues. That’s why you need to assess your situation and figure out whether starting with seeking support might be the right route for you to follow.