Written by: Laura Harstad, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
We’ve all been there… life is going great, and we’re moving excitedly toward our goals. Then all of a sudden, we get off track. We lose our focus, and we start scrolling social media hoping things turn around.
You don’t have to stay stuck! Here are 5 effective and simple ways to shake off this unproductive lack of creativity and dive back into our flow state:
Step 1: Focus on your goals
As Tony Robbins says, “Where focus goes, energy flows.”
Focus on what you want and what your goals are. If you don’t have your top three goals written down – stop and do that right now! Post it where you can read it each day and remind yourself why you’re doing what you do. Keep your dreams right in front of you, and you will be motivated to keep moving forward each day.
Step 2: Change your physiology
Are you aware of the impact your body has on your emotions? It’s extremely powerful, and I’m deeply fascinated by the connection. Here’s a simple reset that will help your body send a message of confidence to your emotions – it’s called the Superman Pose.
Stand up tall
Place both fists on your hips with your elbows straight out
Hold your head high
Did you try it? How did you feel?
Whenever I want a confidence boost, I do the Superman Pose, and it works every time.
Step 3: Choose language that motivates you
You’ve probably heard the phrase, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me.” Unfortunately, many of us weren’t taught how powerful words are.
Consider this scenario: You launch a new product, and there isn’t much interest.
Different responses might flash through your brain:
“I’m never going to get this right. I should just give up.”
That’s ok! I’m one step closer to getting this figured out. How can I make it better?
Do you see the power of words? What you say or think about a situation will directly impact how you feel and the next steps you take. Fill your vocabulary with words that encourage and motivate, and you will be unstoppable!
Step 4: Take action
Whenever I become stuck or uncertain about which direction to go, the one thing that always gets me back on track is taking action. Just do it! Don’t wait until everything is planned perfectly. Take a step out of your comfort zone, and I guarantee doors will open, and you’ll be moving forward again. It’s time to jump!
I remember when my husband and I were trying to decide whether or not to move to a different country to teach 14 years ago. We went back and forth until we finally just said, “Why not?” … and we jumped! We took action, and the experience of living abroad changed our lives forever.
Whether it’s something as small as picking up the phone to call a friend or something as big as moving to a different country – any type of action will help get your life unstuck.
Step 5: Surround yourself with others who inspire you
This step takes longer than the immediate steps above, but once you have this in place, it will be life-changing.
“You're the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” – Jim Rohn
Who are you spending time with? Are your closest friends also dreaming big dreams and bravely leaving their comfort zone? Or are they doubting your journey and encouraging you to take a “safer” path?
Be intentional about who is in your inner circle. If you don’t have a supportive group of peers inspiring you to go to the next level, I would encourage you to join a mastermind with like-minded individuals. This is a great way to meet others who are on a similar journey!
As you work on your business or spend time with your family and friends today, take time to review these 5 steps. Most of these take only seconds to implement and can have a lasting impact on your mindset.
Laura Harstad, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Laura Harstad is a full-time entrepreneur specializing in Photography and Virtual Event Production.
Laura has produced and hosted numerous online events including a live show called "Coffee with Laura", where entrepreneurs shared powerful stories about overcoming obstacles and pursuing their dreams. She is also an inspirational speaker – encouraging audiences to take bold action and live a life of purpose and joy. Prior to her journey as an entrepreneur, her career path included 18 years of combined experience in education and non-profit organizations. Laura loves to travel and has lived in three countries and visited five continents, and she is passionate about building connections that inspire, energize, and impact.
