What to Do When You’re Stuck: How to Get Moving Again

We’ve all felt it—that frustrating sense of being stuck.

You’ve hit a plateau in your fitness goals. You’re staring at two job offers and don’t know which way to go .You’re overwhelmed by challenges in your ministry, your work, your relationships... and the next step feels anything but obvious.

Maybe it’s not failure you’re facing—it’s indecision. Or discouragement. Or a lack of momentum. Whatever the reason, you’re not moving forward, and it’s starting to wear on your confidence and clarity.

Let me tell you this up front: Being stuck doesn’t mean you’re broken.It means you’re human. And more importantly, it’s not permanent.

So what do you do when you’re stuck?

Here are a few practical, principle-based ways to get unstuck and moving forward with clarity, courage, and purpose.

1. Acknowledge It—Without Shame

First, admit it. Say it out loud if you have to:"I’m stuck."

This isn’t weakness. It’s wisdom. The worst thing you can do is pretend everything’s fine while your wheels are spinning in place. In fact, the longer you avoid naming it, the deeper the rut becomes.

Whether you're stuck because of burnout, fear, confusion, or options overload—owning it is the first step to overcoming it.

2. Go Back to “Why”

Sometimes, we lose forward momentum because we lose touch with why we started in the first place.

• You used to be passionate about your role. What changed?

• You used to pursue your fitness goals consistently. What’s missing now?

• You were once excited about that business idea. Why did it stall?

Take a moment to revisit the why behind your goal, calling, or decision. When your “why” gets cloudy, your direction gets fuzzy. But when you remember what’s at stake—what you’re working toward or who you’re working for—it can reignite your motivation.

3. Take the Next Right Step—Not All the Steps

One of the biggest momentum killers is the pressure to figure everything out before making any move.

Here’s the truth: You don’t need all the answers. You just need the next right step.

• Make the phone call.

• Set up the meeting.

• Submit the resume.

• Take the walk.

• Open the Bible.

God doesn’t always give us a map, but He often gives us a lamp (Psalm 119:105). So stop waiting for perfect clarity, and start walking in obedience with what you do know.

4. Evaluate Obstacles Honestly

Sometimes, being stuck isn’t about a lack of will—it’s about unacknowledged obstacles.

Ask yourself:

• What’s actually in the way?

• Is it a resource issue? A time issue? A fear issue?

• Am I trying to do this alone when I need help?

  
  

You can't conquer what you won't confront. Write down the barriers. Name them. Then prayerfully develop a plan to deal with them one by one.

5. Don’t Confuse Delay with Denial

This is important: Just because something isn’t happening on your timeline doesn’t mean it’s not still in God’s will.

Sometimes God hits pause so we’ll pay attention to Him instead of the pace.

You may feel like you’re stuck—but you might just be in a waiting season that’s preparing you for what’s next. Use the time wisely. Reflect. Rest. Realign.

Remember: Not every delay is a detour. Some are divine appointments in disguise.

6. Ask for Help

Stuck thrives in isolation.

If you’re trying to make a career decision, face ministry burnout, navigate team dysfunction, or just need clarity in your next step—invite wise counsel in.

This is where coaching can be a game-changer. When you’re too close to the situation, a trusted coach can help you zoom out, see clearly, and move forward with confidence.

Scripture reminds us: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22).

Don’t struggle alone. The right voice can unlock the clarity you need.

7. Celebrate Progress—Even If It’s Small

Forward motion is still motion—even if it’s just an inch.

Don’t underestimate the power of momentum. One decision, one completed task, one honest conversation can shake loose the hesitation and get you back on track.

Celebrate the small wins. They’re often the start of a breakthrough.

Being stuck doesn’t disqualify you. But staying stuck without asking for help, reflecting, or choosing your next step? That will hold you back.

So if you’re in a place where clarity feels elusive or forward motion has stalled, let’s talk.

I help leaders, professionals, and everyday people just like you navigate moments like this. Through coaching and strategy sessions, we’ll pinpoint the roadblocks, realign with your purpose, and chart a path forward.

📩 Ready to get unstuck?Let’s take the next step together.Book a strategy call at natcrawford.com