Breaking Through Paralysis: Navigating Life When You Feel Stuck
Have you ever found yourself in a place where you're so overwhelmed by everything that needs to be done, you feel completely paralyzed? If you're like me, this isn't the first time you've been here, but every time feels just as difficult. Whether it's a result of ADHD, anxiety, or just the sheer weight of life's responsibilities, feeling stuck is a common experience, but it's also one that can be incredibly challenging to navigate.
Where I Am Right Now
Right now, I'm in that space again. I can feel the weight of everything I need to get done pressing down on me, and yet, here I am, unable to move. It's as if my mind is racing with all the tasks that need attention, but my body just can't catch up. I can see the list of things I want to accomplish—work projects, school assignments, personal goals, even the little things like cleaning the house—but the volume feels paralyzing.
Part of what’s contributing to this feeling is the number of roles and responsibilities I’m balancing. At work, I’m overseeing some fun but pretty detailed projects. I’m also a student, working hard to stay on top of my studies. On the home front, I’m a wife and mother of a teenager, a couple of preteens, and a busy toddler, all of which I’m thankful for. Add to that the fact that I stopped breastfeeding about five months ago, and I’m only just now starting to feel more like myself—a topic for another day. All of this has compounded to create this feeling of paralysis. It's all part of the process, but knowing that doesn't necessarily make it easier to manage.
I've been in this place before, though. Different circumstances, different triggers, but the same overwhelming sense of paralysis. The frustrating part is knowing that I can't just "snap out of it." But over the years, I've found ways to work through this state, even when it feels like I'm only giving 20% of what I think I should.
How I Work Through It
One of the key things I've learned is to let go of the expectation that I need to give 100% all the time. Some days, 20% is all I have, and I've come to realize that's okay. The goal isn't perfection—it's consistency. By consistently showing up, even if it's just a small effort, I can keep this paralyzed state from taking over completely.
Here's how I approach it:
Break It Down: When I'm feeling stuck, I start by breaking down my tasks into the smallest possible steps. Instead of "clean the house," it becomes "put away the dishes" or "wipe down the kitchen counter." These small tasks feel more manageable and give me a sense of accomplishment, which can help build momentum.
Prioritize: I ask myself, "What absolutely needs to be done today?" Not everything is urgent, even though it might feel that way. Focusing on the most critical tasks helps me direct my limited energy where it’s needed most.
Set a Timer: Sometimes, all I need is a little push to get started. I'll set a timer for 10 or 15 minutes and commit to working on a task for just that amount of time. Often, once I start, I find it easier to keep going, but even if I don't, at least I've made some progress.
Practice Self-Compassion: This is a big one. It's easy to beat myself up for not doing more, but I've learned to treat myself with the same kindness I would offer a friend. I'm doing the best I can with the energy I have, and that's enough.
Use Tools That Help: Whether it's a to-do list app, a planner, or even a support group, finding tools that help you stay organized and motivated can make a big difference. For me, writing things down and checking them off gives me a sense of control and progress.
Tools for Others
If you're feeling paralyzed, know that you're not alone, and there are tools you can use to help you move forward:
Task Management Apps: Apps like Todoist or Trello can help you break down tasks and prioritize what's important. Seeing your tasks organized can reduce the overwhelming feeling and give you a clear starting point.
Mindfulness Techniques: Practices like meditation or deep breathing can help calm your mind and reduce the anxiety that often comes with feeling stuck.
Accountability Partners: Sometimes, sharing your goals with someone else can help you stay on track. Whether it's a friend, a therapist, or a coach, having someone to check in with can provide motivation and support.
Routine Building: Establishing a routine, even if it's just a simple morning ritual, can create a sense of stability and help you start the day with a small win.
Understanding the Experience
For me, this paralysis is often linked to my ADHD, but I recognize it can also be influenced by the different roles and stages of life I’m in right now. Whether it's the challenges of being a student, a mother to a teenager, preteens, and a busy toddler, managing detailed work projects, or the aftermath of significant life changes like stopping breastfeeding, all of these factors play into the feeling of being stuck. But I also know that this experience can take many forms, whether it's due to mental health struggles, overwhelming life changes, or just the complexities of modern life.
Moving Forward: Remember, This is Temporary
It’s important to remind ourselves that this feeling of paralysis, as overwhelming as it may be, is only temporary. Life has its seasons, and while this one may feel heavy, it doesn’t define who we are or where we’re headed. The key is to keep moving, even if it's just a little bit at a time.
Consistency, no matter how small, is the bridge between where you are now and the thriving person you’re becoming. Each day that you show up, even with just 20% to give, you’re building resilience. You’re teaching yourself that you can handle these moments, and that they don’t have to control you.
Action Step: The next time you feel paralyzed, choose one small task and commit to it. It doesn’t have to be big—just something you know you can accomplish. Do this consistently, and over time, you’ll find that these small victories start to add up. They’ll remind you that you’re capable, that you’re strong, and that this phase will pass.
You have everything within you to thrive again. This is just a step along the journey. Keep showing up, keep practicing consistency, and watch as the tide begins to turn in your favor. You’ve been here before, and you’ve made it through. This time is no different—you’ll rise stronger, more resilient, and more confident in your ability to navigate whatever life throws your way.
-Big Sis
