This article is by Bonnie Katz, MA. It came in the monthly Casting Networks on-line magazine. I've edited it (deleted some & added a few words, emphasis is mine). Though it's meant for actors, I felt it very applicable in our quitting process here. ~ Giulia
It’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel sometimes and we often feel powerless and stuck. Frustration builds knowing that the clock is ticking, and you’re not getting any closer to your destination. When you find you’re in the midst of this kind of struggle, don’t give up. It’s okay to feel worn out by cravings, but don’t let them take you down completely. There is plenty you can do to push through difficult times and come out smelling like a rose.
As badly as you may feel, remember, somewhere inside of you is the power to move forward no matter what obstacles are thrown on your path. Hold tight to your dreams as you go through adversity knowing that you will come through it being the best version of yourself. Your power is in how you choose to view what happens to you.
You don’t have to continue doing things the way you’ve always done them. You are capable of change, especially when things are not working out for you. Don’t be a prisoner of old patterns and negative habits. To get unstuck, remember these thoughts:
Feelings are not facts. – Just because you feel something, doesn’t make it real. Feelings come and go like the weather. Ruminating on negative thoughts is not helpful; in fact, it just makes them stick around longer. You can stop spiraling down when you question yourself by saying, “Is this a feeling or a fact?” If it’s not a fact, stop ruminating about it and move on.
Learn to let go.– You can’t have a better past by obsessing over your mistakes. After you analyze and understand your situation, let it go. You can’t move forward when you have your feet planted in the past. In order to feel free, release your regrets. Whatever is watered will grow. If you water the seeds of happiness that’s what will come to fruition. Negative thoughts will only make your unhappiness grow. Let go of what doesn’t serve you right now.
Feeling stuck is a beginning not an end. If the way you’re doing things is not working, time to do something else. It could be a change of old habits or a simple change in your perspective. Feeling stuck can be a gift that informs you that it’s time to make some changes. Rather than dwelling on your difficulty, think of it as part of the journey.
Nothing of value comes without hard work. – This stuff sounds simple but is not easy. It takes honesty and courage to admit that something needs to change. Be ready to admit when your plans aren’t working so you can throw away the old maps and make new ones. Venture out into unchartered territory, that’s where the rewards are. There are no gains to be had if you’re afraid to step out of your comfort zone.
Just jump in. – Stop waiting for the perfect moment to do what you need to do. If you look for excuses not to do something, you’ll find them. Nothing magical is going to enter your life and get you out of your rut. Roll up your sleeves and begin by taking small steps in a positive direction.
Life is change and change is good. Don’t hang on to an old belief or goal that is outdated. Don’t get stuck on what you think you should be doing, feeling or thinking. When you take “should” out of your vocabulary, you just might find out what you really want. If you find yourself saying should more than want, you’re on someone else’s path not your own. By letting go of what “should” happen you make space in your life for what really matters to you.
No more excuses - Be strong and remember that some of the biggest breakthroughs emerge after long periods of being stuck.
