How to Get Out of a Rut

Recently, I got out of a rut by planning a trip. It gave me something to look forward to, and then—with the energy boost making a decision about that one thing gave me—something surprising happened: I started taking action in other areas.

I sent a letter to my sponsored Compassion child (I’m terribly negligent in this area). I sent emails to people I’d been meaning to follow up with for weeks and scheduled calls that hugely lifted my spirits as a direct result of those emails.

As my own coach reflected back to me last week, my energy had increased 10x in the two weeks that had gone by since we had last talked.

One of the best things I’ve learned is that action is the fastest way to conquer inertia; in short, “action trumps fear.”

Your action doesn’t need to be as grandiose as booking a flight or planning an exotic vacation. It can be as small as writing a letter or getting your nails done.

Here are a few ideas:

• Go on a walk. I’m often amazed at how even a ten-minute walk can give me perspective, reduce feelings of stress, and serve as a reset.

• Do something to improve the aesthetics of your surroundings. Last week, I shopped for some room decor to spruce up my home office, where I spend a ton of time.

• Do something to increase your sense of self worth. For me, coloring my hair or getting a pedicure can make me feel like a million bucks.

• And last but not least? Consider hiring a coach.