When You Feel Stuck: Gentle Tools for Moving Forward

We all go through seasons where we feel stuck—like we’re moving through mud emotionally, mentally, or even spiritually. You might not have the energy to do what once felt easy. The motivation is missing. The clarity, the spark, the hope—it feels just out of reach.

You’re not broken.
You’re not failing.
You’re human.

At Coastal Counselling Walk and Talk Therapy, we often meet people in these in-between places—grappling with uncertainty, burnout, or big life transitions. And while there’s no one-size-fits-all fix, there are small, meaningful ways to soften the stuckness and begin to move forward.

What Does “Stuck” Really Mean?

Feeling stuck can show up as:

• Constant overthinking or indecision

• Emotional numbness or feeling flat

• Lack of motivation or energy

• A sense of “what’s the point?”

• Being overwhelmed by even simple tasks

Often, it’s our nervous system asking for safety, rest, or reconnection.

Why Pushing Through Doesn’t Always Work

We live in a culture that glorifies productivity and resilience, but sometimes the most healing thing you can do is pause and ask:

“What do I actually need right now?”

Instead of pushing forward, what if we slowed down, got curious, and gently supported ourselves?

5 Gentle Tools to Help You Unstick

1. Move Your Body in Nature

Even a short walk outside—without your phone—can shift your internal state. Movement regulates the nervous system and helps us feel more grounded. You don’t need to go far or fast. Just start with one step.

2. Practice Self-Compassion, Not Self-Criticism

Speak to yourself like you would a close friend. You're allowed to rest. You're allowed to feel lost. Let that be okay.

3. Create Tiny Moments of Achievement

Start small. Really small. Like:

• Drinking a glass of water

• Opening the window

• Putting your feet on the ground and taking three deep breaths

These tiny steps create momentum and remind you that change doesn’t have to be grand to be meaningful.

4. Talk It Out—But in a Way That Feels Safe

Sometimes just saying things out loud helps us process them. Walk and Talk Therapy can feel less intimidating than sitting face-to-face—it offers a gentle space to explore what’s really going on beneath the surface.

5. Reconnect with What Brings You Joy (Or Once Did)

When stuck, we often disconnect from the things that fill us up. Ask yourself: What used to make me feel like me? Then slowly, gently, reintroduce it. Even if you don’t feel like it at first.

Final Thoughts

If you’re feeling stuck right now, please know this:
You don’t have to have it all figured out.
You’re not alone.
And it won’t always feel this way.

Sometimes, the first step toward change isn’t action—it’s compassion.

If you're ready to talk, move, or simply sit with someone who gets it, I'm here. Let’s take that step—together.

With care, Sahra

Coastal Counselling Walk and Talk Therapy