What if “getting stuck” is not such a bad thing? We all get stuck in a moment–sooner or later–and often quite frequently.  These moments could be crossroads in life, projects at work or school, or decisions involving other people. Perhaps you get stuck in deciding among the many choices at the supermarket or the video store. Or when tackling a crossword puzzle or trivia question. Or when making a moral or ethical decision.

People get stuck for a number of reasons, some more significant than others.

Unfortunately, getting stuck does not sit well with most people, especially leaders, managers, and over-achievers. It is seen as unproductive, ineffective, and undetermined. Many even choose to remain quietly stuck to avoid criticism from others.

Truth is, everyone gets stuck, quite frequently.

Popular wisdom urges people to get unstuck ASAP and get on with their lives. It cheers people with phrases like, “you can do it!” or “get on it!” However, popular wisdom rarely asks the question:  Why am I stuck and what can I learn from this moment?

This question has everything to do with how you live your life and how you face moments when you get stuck. If you have a learning and humble attitude towards life you are more likely to find value and gain wisdom from these moments. If you rush through experiences or cover your least favorite moments with “denial,” “pride,” “stubbornness,” or “temporary distractions,” you will miss out, on all the wise lessons to learn from the moment.

The moment is not your enemy. Sometimes it’s good to be stuck there for a little while. Rushing to get out can rob you of the value of being stuck in that moment. Those are the times that will help you understand yourself better, shine light on your beliefs, and examine your actions and behaviors.  I like to look at these moments as pit-stops in the journey of life.

Embrace the moments you get stuck in. Life happens in these moments.

Next time you get stuck, consider the following:

1. Think and reflect: Explore and learn more about yourself.
2. Rest: Refuel, refocus, renew your energy, and obtain clarity.
3. Pray: What is the divine purpose in and of this moment? What does God want to convey to me? “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God (through prayer), who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him (James 1:5).”
4. Ask for help or accept the help of a friend or family member. We are human beings, created to help one another and not do everything on our own.
5. Journal your way through it. Keeping notes during and after help you translate the experience into wisdom and internalize it.

When I get stuck, I like to pray and ask God to give me the wisdom to know what got me here and what He is trying to teach me. I live my life with the assurance that God is in control of my life and His purpose(s) for my life are the best. I know that my life is “a work in progress” and the moments I get stuck-in are learning moments.

We are refined in the moments of life. Next time you feel stuck ask yourself: Why am I stuck and what can I learn from this moment?

The last verses of the classic U2 song, “Stuck in a Moment You Can’t Get Out Of” remind us that moments come and go. Embrace the moments, but don’t let the moments rule over you.

“And if the night runs over
And if the day won’t last
And if your way should falter
Along the stony pass
It’s just a moment
This time will pass.”

-Bono U2, “Stuck in a Moment You Can’t Get Out Of”
January 29, 2001

“It’s just a moment. This time will pass.”

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If you are looking for more ideas and “how-to’s” on “getting unstuck,” visit Penelope Trunk’s recent post.

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1. Connect with *this* moment!
2. An Afternoon of Serenity
3. Happy Holidays Amigos
4. A Worker's Prayer
5. The Meaning of Life – $9.99 the movie, for sale!