Seven Powerful Questions to Get You Unstuck!

Are you stuck? It happens to all of us. Even the most talented, knowledgeable, and experienced professionals have “been there.” If you’re part of the human race, the question is not IF you get stuck, but WHEN!

Sound familiar? Your life and business feel stalled. Your goals and ambitions feel out of reach. You struggle with frustration, knowing that there has to be a better way. You know things have to change, but you’re unsure about where to start. You feel overwhelmed and defeated. How do you get yourself out of this mess? In life and business, learning how to get unstuck is an invaluable skill. Here are some questions to reflect on that could help you begin to clear the logjam.

1. Imagine for a moment that your issue is resolved. How did you get there? Starting with the end in mind may help you identify action steps you can begin taking now to get the wind back in your sails.
2. What are you ready to change? What are you NOT ready to change at this point in time? Get clear on what options/steps you are ready to take. Clarifying what things you are not ready to change yet can help bring focus to your situation.
3. What haven’t you admitted out loud yet? Fear (False Evidence Appearing Real) can be a show-stopper. Be honest with yourself. Why are you holding back? What step are you afraid to take?
4. What’s the problem in a nutshell? What’s the problem in one sentence? And what’s the problem in one word? Jumbled thoughts become untangled as they pass through the lips and the fingertips. Get to the heart of the issue by writing it down or talking it out with a friend until you can summarize in one word.
5. What’s the EASY way forward here? Trying to “figure it all out” before we act can keep us stuck far longer than necessary. What is one action step you can take today to move the ball down the field? Remember: the game is won one play at a time.
6. How important is this to you REALLY? Is this issue as critical as you are making it out to be? Are there other priorities/projects you could focus on until you overcome the problem at hand?
7. Name someone successful that you admire. What would ________ do if they were in your position? What strategy would they use to overcome the challenge you are facing? Why not take them out for coffee or lunch and ask them for their input?

There are many ways to get unstuck, but I trust these questions will be useful to you. Do you have other ideas for clearing the logjam? I would love to hear from you. Let’s start a conversation!

Eric Deschamps | Business Coach, Ottawa