Breaking Through Stuck: Why Change Feels Impossible and How to Overcome It

Change is hard. No matter how much we want to grow, improve, or take that next step, something often holds us back. We make resolutions, set goals, and promise ourselves that this time will be different—only to find ourselves back in the same patterns. If you’ve ever wondered why lasting change is so difficult, you’re not alone.

The struggle to change isn’t just about lacking motivation or willpower. It’s often because we have powerful, unseen forces keeping us stuck—competing commitments, deep-seated fears, and protective beliefs that operate beneath the surface. These forces aren’t conscious choices to resist change; they exist to keep us safe, even when they work against the progress we desire.

Why We Stay Stuck

People often assume change is about adding new behaviors, but real transformation requires uncovering what is keeping us locked in place. Here are three common reasons we struggle:

1. Hidden Competing Priorities – We say we want to take bold action, but we also want stability, approval, or control. These priorities are often at odds with each other, making progress feel like running in place.

2. Deeply Rooted Assumptions – Beneath our behaviors are beliefs we take as truth: "If I delegate more, I’ll lose my value," or "If I push for change, I’ll alienate my team." These assumptions drive our actions without us even realizing it.

3. Self-Protective Behaviors – We develop strategies to avoid discomfort, failure, or uncertainty. We procrastinate, avoid difficult conversations, or overcommit elsewhere—all in the name of staying safe.

   
   

How to Break Through

Lasting change doesn’t come from pushing harder or trying to "fix" ourselves. It comes from understanding what’s keeping us stuck and challenging it in small, deliberate ways. Here are three steps to start shifting:

1. Spot the Competing Commitment – Instead of just setting a new goal, ask yourself: What might I be unconsciously committed to that keeps me from making this change? Identifying this can reveal what’s truly holding you back.

2. Test Your Assumptions – We often act as if our limiting beliefs are facts. Challenge them by asking, What would happen if this weren’t true? and run small experiments to see if your fears play out the way you expect.

3. Lean Into Discomfort – Change isn’t about eliminating fear; it’s about expanding your capacity to tolerate it. Choose small, intentional steps that stretch your comfort zone without overwhelming you.

   
   

Join Us to Go Deeper

If you’re ready to break through what’s holding you back, join us for Breaking Through Stuck on February 5th at 6:30 pm CT. In this interactive webinar, we’ll explore why change feels impossible and how to create real movement in your life and work. You’ll leave with practical insights and tools to shift long-standing patterns and move forward with confidence.

The booking link can be accessed by clicking here.

Reserve your spot now and start breaking through what’s been holding you back.