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5 Steps to Getting Out of a Rut

User Profile: fruityPond7887
fruityPond7887 October 3rd, 2022

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"We all lose our spark from time to time. Even the most motivated individuals get stuck in a rut. This might be as simple as being bored of the same old routine, or even waking up unable to drag yourself out of bed. When you’re in a rut, you feel like you just can’t get going. Breaking out of a rut is like push-starting a car when it won’t start. The following steps show us how to get started.

1. Assess the problem: Why won’t the car start?

2. Do something: Push until the wheels are in motion.

3. Make plans: Turn the steering wheel and set your course.

4. Build momentum: Move up the gears and apply some gas.

5. Self-care: Practice good car maintenance.

Being stuck in a rut is something we all experience and can happen for a number of reasons. Though the initial push is undoubtedly the hardest part, remembering to set realistic expectations in the short term can help us quickly shake off fatigue and rediscover our drive. Planning our initial steps out of the dullness with extensive detail can help to turn nebulous wishing into structured reality. Valuing our progress and the steps we take to maintain our identities is essential for holding on to the best versions of ourselves. Look after yourself, but remember that being kind to yourself will often involve discipline, challenge, and a constant striving to improve and evolve."

*It is inevitable that we all get into a rut sometimes and it really can be so difficult to break out of it. I know that when I get into a rut all I want to do is lay in bed and not move, but sometimes you just have to do one little thing. Getting the wheels turning is essential and will help you build the momentum to keep going. Remember to be kind to yourself too. We all get into ruts and it never lasts forever! What do you like to do to help boost yourself up when you are in a rut?*

#Depression #Rut #Motivation

Please find the full article at Psychology Today.

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User Profile: Sunisshiningandsoareyou
Sunisshiningandsoareyou October 3rd, 2022

@fruityPond7887

"Why won't the car start?" Lol such an apt analogy! XD

I feel this is such a common experience for many people, especially post pandemic/ lockdown times, as we venture into the 'new' normal and try to get our lives back on track, the rut is so natural, sometimes (mostly) it feels like a state of mind, one that feels unshakeable, other times yes can't argue there's actually too "visible" obstacles that keep us feeling stuck in that rut, some of which can be beyond our control and just stressful, to say to least.

Thanks for sharing, another super relevant, relatable, and insight article, as always I resonate with your reflection too. It is indeed quite important to be kind and patient with ourselves, rushing won't do any good often!❤

Volunteering at 7 cups really works as an instant boost often, it's this sense of purpose and gratitude of serving humanity in whatever little ways possible, besides, music, other media, change of scenery (even going to the closest park for a walk is really helpful and you can always walk back with an ice cream~ win-win😛), doing/ trying something new, keeping busy etc!

How about youuu?🤗

1 reply
User Profile: fruityPond7887
fruityPond7887 OP October 14th, 2022

@Sunisshiningandsoareyou Thank you for your thoughts!! You're right that sometimes we can't get out of the rut as fast as we want, but being patient and kind is key! Ice cream is an automatic fixer! Love that! I agree that volunteering here at Cups and staying busy are two great ways to give yourself a sense of purpose when you feel like you're having a difficult time. Naps are always a favorite of mine too! <3 Thank you Sun!

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User Profile: comfortableNight4463
comfortableNight4463 October 3rd, 2022

@fruityPond7887 Thanks for sharing this wonderful article! When I'm feeling demotivated and in a rut, I take a break and then write down what I need to get done. I'll start with a small task first and then after I've completed that, I use that motivation to finish the next task.

2 replies
User Profile: fruityPond7887
fruityPond7887 OP October 15th, 2022

@comfortableNight4463 That's a really great method to helping yourself get out of the rut! I think once we start with little tasks and feel a bit accomplished, it can help motivate us to get the bigger tasks done. There's nothing like the serotonin boost from crossing something off your to-do list! Thanks for sharing!!

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User Profile: comfortableNight4463
comfortableNight4463 October 15th, 2022

@fruityPond7887 Exactly! This method helps me a lot. I hope it helps others too!

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User Profile: LLils
LLils October 16th, 2022

Thank you for your post. I just get along with my rut and embrace it. until it feel at ease. and I know everyone around me is annoyed. but, the only problem it might take too long,,, afraid it might turn to comfort zone.

1 reply
User Profile: fruityPond7887
fruityPond7887 OP October 17th, 2022

@LLils I really love that method of embracing it. It's kind of like trying not to fight intrusive thoughts. They said the more you fight them, the more prevalent they become. Don't worry about what everyone else thinks. You have to do what makes sense to you because you're the one dealing with the rut and you know yourself best! I appreciate you sharing your thoughts!❤️

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