Opinion

How to get unstuck and back in action

Last year, we looked at a number of ways that you can start the year with a bang—from forming ideas, creating projects out of those ideas, putting them in a plan, executing, and finally celebrating the success. It’s 2025, and almost 2 weeks have passed already. Nevertheless, though you may have started to work on some of those ideas formed into projects, you somehow feel stuck. For some reason, something is holding you back, and you’re not sure how to progress. Does this scenario sound familiar? I will tell you why.

The reason you are feeling stuck and don’t seem to have the positive momentum to get things done is probably due to lacking three important things: First is clarity (i.e., what you really want to do), second is a clear plan (i.e., how you will do it), and lastly is a purpose (i.e., why you’re doing it in the first place). I trust this is what prevents most people from progressing and, of course, drains their/your energy, which as a result prevents you/everyone else from taking action. I have been there and understand literally what you may be going through.

Recently, I came across an intriguing viral video along with some of the readings I do on personal productivity; hence, I have decided to focus my article this week on steps that one can follow in order to get unstuck and back into action.

First, you need to identify your core values. For example, ask yourself, “What really drives your choices and defines you?” The answers you get will help you align your actions with values, which would ultimately make you feel satisfied. Once you have your values, set specific goals that align with them—avoid vague goals such as “I want to be happy,” “I want to be successful,” “I want to be rich,” and/or “I want to be strong.” Your goals need to be SMART—i.e., specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timed.

Before you can move forward, it is important you understand the reason why you feel stuck. Knowing your current position, your future destination, and the ultimate goal is the most important thing, as it forms your clarity. With this in mind, written somewhere visible for you to follow-up, you will have a focus on what you are willing to achieve.

Secondly, set a vision by visualizing your goal. You can do this by asking yourself what images resonate with your aspirations and how the goal looks, feels, and sounds like. Such a vision will truly inspire you to move forward. This activity will help turn your dream into a tangible aspiration.

Next, develop a plan of action.

This can be done by asking yourself what are the steps needed in order to achieve those desire goals. Put those steps as your plan of action. Try and break those goals into smaller actionable tasks and ensure you put a timeline for each one of them. Trust me, most actions fail due to not having timelines.

On a regular basis, ensure you check to see if your actions are aligned with your values. This will help you stay motivated so as to refrain from getting stuck. Alignment will help you ensure that everything you do contributes to your ultimate purpose.

Lastly, take action. All those ideas, projects, plans, etc., will mean nothing if there is no execution. As the saying goes, “Actions speak louder.” Start small but do something today/now, and trust me, the first part may be harder, but the moment you commit and see some results, there will be no one to stop you from achieving profound results. Always ask yourself, “What small steps can I take today?”. This may help you get the ball rolling.

Losing momentum, falling behind sometimes, and missing goal posts is common—it happens to me, to you, and to almost every successful person that you may admire.

Ask them, and you will realize the same. One needs to know that progress can be attained by regularly reviewing oneself and following steps shared in the article today, starting by having clarity, identifying core values, and creating a tangible vision along with actions that align with value. Every step taken forward is a step closer to your vision. Start today and get back in action. You can do this!