Getting Unstuck – The Pivot Point - The Key To Me Coaching

Lately, I’ve found myself reflecting on seasons in my life where life’s obstacles just didn’t seem to change. Seasons where I have felt totally and completely stuck. You know the feeling—when the world is spinning on without you, and you’re just standing still? It’s a heavy, crushing weight, and in those moments, it’s so easy to just want to give up and let yourself sink.

I’ve heard it said that “you’ve made it through 100% of the tough times you’ve faced; the proof is simple: you’re still here.” But when you’re in the middle of a struggle, that fact doesn’t always bring much comfort. The emotions take over, and it’s easy to forget all the things you’ve already conquered.

Shifting My Perspective

I don’t know about you, but when I’m feeling lost, I tend to believe that my current situation is the whole story. But I’ve learned it’s not. I try to put the emotions aside and think about all the obstacles I’ve already overcome. Remembering those wins isn’t about ignoring how I feel right now; it’s about planting a seed of confidence in my ability to get through this, too.

No matter what you believe in—whether it’s God, the Universe, or just the powerful force of Life—I’ve come to believe that my life has a purpose, and I’m exactly where I’m meant to be right now. Instead of asking, “Why is this happening to me?” I try asking, “What can I learn from this?” This simple question helps me find growth in moments that feel like a dead end.

Focusing on What I Can Control

It’s a tough truth, but I’ve accepted that I can’t control what other people say or do (as much as I would love to). I can’t force opportunities to magically appear, and I certainly can’t change the past. But I do know what I can control: my own actions and my mindset. When everything feels chaotic, focusing on what’s within my control is an anchor that keeps me from drifting away.

One of the most powerful things I’ve found I can do is invest in myself. This is something that no one can ever take away from me. It builds confidence and creates momentum, even when everything else seems frozen.

This isn’t just about a new job or a career path. It’s about becoming the best version of me. Maybe that means taking a class, picking up a new hobby, or finally focusing on my health. These small, intentional steps create a sense of forward motion and remind me that I am moving forward.

My Journey Through the Unknown

I think back to when I left my role in ministry. I knew that chapter was over, but I had no idea what came next. I felt so lost and stuck. I was looking for a new job, but nothing was happening. I felt more isolated and alone than ever.

Then, a single offer came my way: an opportunity to go back to school. I wasn’t 100% sure about taking that step, but a pastor I knew gave me some advice that stuck with me. He said that getting my degree was something no one could ever take away from me. It was an investment in myself.

So, at 52, I went back to college. That time ended up being a season of rest and personal work that I didn’t even realize I needed. It was in that time of study that I found my passion and my career in coaching. Looking back, I can see that I was so focused on finding a new job and pushing forward when what I really needed was to stop, rest, and work on myself.

That period of feeling stuck wasn’t an end; it was a pivot point. It was a time of preparation for what was next. It taught me that sometimes, the biggest leap forward comes from an inner change, not an outer one.

So, when you feel stuck and everything seems out of your control, what’s one small thing you can do for yourself?

Additional reading for ways to invest in yourself: 11 ways to invest in yourself and build a better you – The Considered Man