Help. I'm in a rut. How do I get back on top of things?

Submitted by: Sally R.

Answered by: Lisa

Oh Sally. Is it really a rut or are you just resting? When you tell me that you want to get back on top of things, I have a picture of you climbing up a steep cliff and pushing yourself to go higher and higher. What would happen if you just let yourself be in the rut for a bit? What kind of rut is it? Is it soft, hard, dark, scary? What does the rut look like? What do you imagine is outside of the rut? Is it more of the same?
 
Sometimes we fall into ruts because we are pushing ourselves from the outside. For example, we want to make a good impression or please someone. Perhaps we are trying to live up to someone else’s expectations. Instead, try moving forward from the inside. What do I mean? Well, the greatest motivation comes from living your values, finding the pleasure in things and connecting your actions to something meaningful. Specifically meaningful to you, not someone else.
 
Being in a rut gives you time to reevaluate. Are you pushing yourself too hard? Do you need to change some things, even slow down and smell the proverbial roses? It’s great to be productive with a purpose. Look from some purpose and meaning in your actions and see if that doesn’t elevate you from your rut. No pushing allowed.