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Lots and lots of entrepreneurs have been telling me that they feel very stuck lately.
Maybe you feel like you’re on the right path, but you’re not getting great results (meaning you’re working really hard for a small financial and energetic return), and that’s causing some serious doubt and insecurity in you about the direction you’re heading.
Or maybe you’re not on the right path at all, and you know it, and that’s causing you to feel flat out anxious and unsure about where to go to get the answers and guidance you’re seeking.
Either way, the results are the same
You are left feeling unsure of yourself and unsure about your next step….and that uncertainty can be paralyzing.
This is when most freeze up, recoil in fear, and start coming up with all sorts of excuses as to why you “can’t”. I see it time and time again.
And unfortunately, this is why so many people never get to where they want to go – because when you are challenged to your core (which happens to EVERYONE), you stop getting creative, you stop taking action, and you start allowing your external circumstances control you.
I call it getting stuck on “The Fear Hump.”
But YOU can be different
It’s in these times of challenge, struggle, and frustration that amazing things can be birthed through you.
How do I know?
Because it has happened to me….time and time again. And let me share something with you that’s very personal and real for me.
You see, about once every three months, I begin to feel that wave of confusion and doubt coming on (again)…and it’s uncomfortable (you know what I’m talking about).
Fortunately, after shifting out of this fog so many times, I have come to realize that there are always some VERY SPECIFIC ingredients that must be present for this “hazy energy” to dissipate….and for clarity to come through.
Yet I always wondered: “I am just a lucky case?” Maybe my experience was just some type of divine intervention.
So being the scientist I am, I started creating experiments to test whether others could have this same transformation in such a control fashion like I could, and I was pleasantly surprised to see it work over and over again. People would show up at our events and go from un-clear and hopeless to inspired and focused….like clock-work.
So what does this tell you?
That everyone (including you) can shift your reality and get crystal clear about where you’re going and what you’re doing…fast!
But here’s the thing: my experience has shown me that this type of CLARITY doesn’t just happen on it’s own. There are very specific ingredients that need to be present in order for the SHIFT to take place. And when they are, experiencing this “clarity download” is almost inevitable.
So what are they?
I have discovered that there are 5 core ingredients that must be present for you to get unstuck and clear about your next step. They are:
1) Embrace that what you’re doing ISN’T WORKING.
One of my dear friends is best-selling author Debbie Ford – and her work is about the shadow. Which, in simple terms, is about the dark shame-filled thoughts and feelings you have inside that you’re un-willing to look at or embrace. The problem is that your shadows always sabotages your success when left in the dark. So step 1 is to embrace what isn’t working and bring that into the light so that you actually have an opportunity to do something about it.
2) Put aside your EGO and become a great student, again.
If you are resistant to help because you think that you already have all the answers, you’re going to remain ATTACHED to your ideas and thus remain stuck. When I do private coaching, I’m always amazed that I often have to spend a good chunk of time just getting someone to open up to the possibility that there’s another way of moving forward. If you find yourself regularly defending your point of view, you’re probably not ready to break free yet.
3) Get out of your space and into a new environment.
Even if it’s just for a few days, getting out of your normal every-day atmosphere and into an unfamiliar location always opens up a new space for creativity and clarity. If you’re feeling stuck, there’s too much “old energy” where you are right now….and it needs to move. I’ve found this step to be ABSOLUTE NECESSARY in the process of getting clear; and yet this often a step that people resist most.
4) ????????
5) ???????
Let’s play a game
Instead of giving you all the answers right now, I have a question for you:
“What do YOU think are the last two steps for gaining clarity and direction in your business if you are feeling stuck?
If you think you’ve got some juice, please leave your answer in the comment box below.
And the WINNER gets…
I’m going to read ALL of your comments and pick THE BEST response that answers this question with the clearest, easiest, and most precise steps.
And if you’re selected, you will WIN a FREE copy of my Step Up & Lead Now Audio program ($497.00 value) designed to help you get crystal clear on how to create a wealth-creating business that’s in complete alignment with your authentic purpose.
And if you’re wondering why I’m doing this, it’s because I was about to give you the answers and I thought to myself: “I would really love to hear what you would do in this situation!!!” Because you’re a brilliant mind and I’m always up for learning a new perspective (ie, point #2).
So share your answers right now, and good luck! I’m really looking forward to reading your comments.
Much love,
Max
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Two others that come to mind.
Go to a live performance, music, theater, anything like that that will allow you to experience the creative live energy of others.
Second, which I talk about alot with people I work with, is stay right where you are, in the moment. Usually you’re stuck because your focused on the past or future. In the moment is refreshing. Like fine particles that settle from a glass of water, when you are still, things get clearer.
H max
I think step 4 would be to do something FUN that makes your heart sing. Something that brings you joy and has no hidden agenda. When in that state we all know that our hearts are open and our vibrations raise and the Divine Download comes with Grace and Ease when we simply allow it.
Step 5 would be to take the inpired action received. To trust and step out in faith and know that you are being guided. So if it is being inspired to go to a networking gig that one normally wouldn’t go to, buy a book one wouldn’t normally read, get a personal mentor/coach or attend a seminar they didn’t think they could afford. That is Inspired Living which we all have access to when we get clear, focused and present and out of our own way
Letting go is an awesome thing.
Thanks Max! You Rock
4) “Get out of your head and into your breath” – I recommend students do this to help them transcend all the self-defeating mind stuff that builds up so much momentum it can actually start to make things worse. This can be with yoga asana, pranayama (breathing exercises) or meditation.
5) Channel all your NEW to refine your OLD! — Meaning Your ACCEPTANCE (1), being UNATTACHED (2), fresh new ENVIRONMENT(3) and NO MIND space (4). Invite the new CLARITY to come rushing in like a tidal wave!
4 -Visualize what you really want with utmost clarity. But before you do that, you must first put yourself in a positive state by remembering (and mentally reliving an extremely happy moment in your life). Once you remember the feeling of “happiness and joy” then you can begin visualizing what you want now. Put yourself in the visualization. Maintain that happy feeling, visualize what you want with clarity, making sure you are participating in the visualization.
5 -Ask source. Everyone has a “source” they turn to. Whether it’s Religion, Spiritual Beliefs, their own Intuitiveness, whatever it is, everyone turns to their own Source. Simply start a dialog with Source. Take out a sheet of paper, write your name and put a dash behind it. Then ask your question: “How do I become unstuck? I’m really having a difficult time and I need help with becoming unstuck.” Next write your Source’s name and put a dash behind it and take a deep breath. Pause and take everything in. Wait for the answer to come. If you are having difficulty with this, pretend for a moment YOU are Source. What would you tell you to do. Many times the act of the mindset shift alone will help give you clarity.
Okay…I’ll play! The next two steps:
4. Surround yourself with people who are aware and working in the energy you would like to be in (such as attending EEE event)
5….this one I have a couple of possibilities…not sure which one would be best. My thoughts are: take the first step…even if you are not 100% sure where it is going..just do it…take action. alternatively, I also feel it is extremely important to give thanks…take an inventory of the huge number of things to be grateful for…find that place of gratitude and joy. alternatively…as an extension of #1…not only embrace the shadow…but communicate…reach out…let others know that you need assistance…get it out in the open. alternatively…let go…of expectations/restraints placed on yourself by yourself…breathe…open….
the number of alternatives I list obviously points to the fact that I am not clear on this next step…thank you Max for providing the opportunity to see this! as a student again…would love to learn this!
4) Identify what Rocks Your World.
Think about what really cranks you up. What excites you? What you would love to be doing/sharing everyday of your life? See yourself living that life. Bring that image into the space you’ve created for yourself (Step 3) by being open to all possibilities without limitation (Step 2) and without guilt (Step 1) because you DO deserve to have it all.
5) Take action NOW.
Begin taking steps to bring what you’ve created through thinking to fruition. Layout the plan with the end goal of what you identified “Rocks Your World” (Step 4). Only the immediate steps need to be figured out along with the end goal. Once the initial steps are spelled out, there is no hesitation. Just do it! Subsequent steps will reveal themselves as we continue to practice Step 4 while remaining engaged in Steps 1-3.
Thanks for the post Max!
For me, the next 2 steps to get ‘unstuck’ are: (4) Be still, really feel the discomfort of being ’stuck’ and then visualize being unstuck in complete detail (how it feels, looks, smells, tastes, sounds, etc.), capturing all of the details in writing after the visualization and (5) Listen and follow my inner guidance (aka ‘higher power’) for the first steps to take towards the vision and just start stepping!
4. Meditation – clear your mind and ask yourself internally, “What is my next step for the highest good for all concerned”? Then allow the space and quiet time on a regular (daily) basis to listen to your internal genius.
5. Get moving – physical activity can clear the cobwebs and help you to see things more clearly. It also boosts your energy levels and endorphines to help you feel better.
4. Support-Find Mentors, Programs, Retreats, whatever that is in alignment with what you want to achieve. Seek the enlightened entrepreneurs that are getting the results you are looking for. Embrace their knowledge and expertise.
5. Take Action- Take a step and then another towards your vision, passions and goals. Without Action, you sit idle in your life as you watch it go by. We are not what we think but what we do. Put those old beliefs that are not serving you aside and create new empowering ones in their place.
Hi Max!
Your article is a great source to find inspiration, an unconventional source- unrelated to the project I have found myself stuck and somewhat unable to move forward just lately.
So here I was looking to get unstuck I look to other sources for inspiration, that has nothing to do with my work. And here is your message today. I am open to be inspired!
Ironically my answer for number 4 is to be open to receiving guidance/wisdom and inspiration from other sources, and be open to receiving it.
Number 5 is to engage fully in the flow and good energy created by the inspiration, by taking inspired action when compelled to do so- which again ironically is what I am doing !
I am becoming unstuck!
I am grateful- giving thanks for another great experience that renews my faith in the process of life!
What a wise way to engage people. thank you Max.
Here’s what’s been working for me lately…
4. Stop acting from a place of urgency. First find the contentment in what I’ve already done, and what I’m already doing. Then begin taking action from the place of inner contentment.
5. Ask myself what do I really want? What do I really want to do? When I get stuck, it’s often because I’ve gotten distracted from my real goals. So I’ll take an action that isn’t focused on “moving my business forward,” as much as it is about helping people….”serving my tribe.”
Elliott
Hi Max,
Looking forward to your upcoming retreat! You posed a great question as all of us get stuck at playing this game of life experience.
Number 4 for me would be to remind myself that I am not separate from source. Everyone has their own way of doing this- a walk in nature, meditation, yoga, breath exercises, something where you feel connected and one with spirit, God or whatever you call it.
5. I like to use a technique that I learned from Esther and Larry Hicks (The law of attraction) which has never failed me. I say aloud, “In this moment of my life’s experience, I intend…X”.Answers come sometimes in mysterious ways, the license plate on the car in front of me, a billboard, a fortune cookie, a conversation that I overhear, a book that catches my eye. There are no coincidences as the universe is always on our side. I forget this on a regular basis.
Thank you everyone for sharing your wisdom. The following is the way I express the same truth.
4: Develop TRUST- trust the intension of the universe. Confusion is a place for growth. Pushing for answers creates frustration and more confusion. Trust that the answer will come…but first you must learn the lessons that come from #1-3.
5: Create your MANTRA- wrap words around the lesson you are trying to teach yourself, and say it all day, everday. I’ll share my current peace, “I am ready to let go of what I think I want. I release what was, so I can create what is next. Please help me empty & allow me to open to what is meant for me.”
Warm Love to all
Move your body and your mind will move. Tapping meridians is playing around compared to the seismic shift that occurs when ‘funk’ is transformed into funky.
Walking and dance may help but there are techniques that are ‘transportable’ (ie you can do’ ‘em anywhere, even at the office!) and halt the paralysis of a quagmire mood. Combining key simple movements with intention will immediately, but immediately elevate focus, hormones and therefore response. Even the most conscious mind just can’t rationalise everything! We cannot but cannot remain stuck when we move the boy with deliberate intent techniques.
highly unfunky
Dream Warrior Jenni P
Get clear on what it is you want – visualboards are great for this – go deep into what would make you really happy – not just the material items you may be striving for.
Move forward being open to every new opportunity that come syour way . This has been my biggest lesson moving from where I think I should be going to moving more to where I am being directed – don’t be tied to the results – have fun!
I am so moved by what Maria wrote- so beautiful.
My two choices are:
-Ask for help and trust what you receive. I learned this in a big way this past summer. I was a hysterical mess for days when I finally surrendered to the moment and asked the Universe to guide me. Within days I had 3 beautiful angles show up in my life and four months later I believe in myself more than ever and dream is that much closer to becoming a reality!
-DANCE! DANCE! DANCE! This helps me without fail all the time. Music is such a life force me and it revs up my core to such a high that I can’t help but dance! I dance in my cubicle at work (which my co workers find so hysterical and some even follow) and I dance with my dog in my apartment. Dancing makes me feel so alive, so present and so grateful that when I’m done I feel stronger, powerful and ready to keep moving in the right direction
I say:
4. Figure out what you really want and don’t, then
5. Focus on service and what you can give, asking the universe how you can give, and asking other people how you can help them.
4. Play. If you’ve forgotten how, find some children. They’ll be happy to show you. This will get you out of your head and into the moment and you’ll get some laugh therapy for the endorphins. Then while you’re relaxed, the divine will peek through.
5. Read words of wisdom. This will help rearrange your perspective.
To get unstuck out of my Entrepreneurial muck,
4. Re-read my mission statement and make sure my goals still resonate with me. For Instance, I ask myself, “Does this mission statement of this business get me to my desired goal of living in Bali by 2013?” If not, then I rewrite and or redefine the mission statement and or goal and reset and adjust the business accordingly.
5. I coach someone else who is an entrepreneur who is also challenged. By teaching or helping another person with their business I learn my own strengths and weaknesses and discover new ways of practicing my business.
Of course I am doing all this while running or doing yoga to keep my energy flowing.
THANKS MAX!!!!
Max, you are amazing. What a great exercise you have created here.
Having danced in and out of moments of doubt myself, steps 4 and 5 for me have been:
4. Take time to express and really feel gratitude for all that you have in your life in the present moment. Gratitude journals are a powerful way to see all of the wonderful gifts that you have in your life already and as we have heard many times before… what we focus on expands!
5. Use visualization techniques to channel your gifts and talents and see the benefits that you bring to the world. During times of confusion and self-doubt, we need clarity of purpose to understand the value that we bring to the universe. By taking time to see the beauty of our talents, confidence is increased and confusion fades.
Thanks for giving us the opportunity to participate in your wisdom, Max!
Thanks to you all. Your words are so inspiring. You’ve created quite a job for yourself Max. I think they all should win !!
Max,
I would like to continue the Ingredients’ you have listed.
#4: Be open, listen and be humbly receptive to ideas and coaching that those who can see your situation more clearly, may offer to you. Another perspective given from a generous heart of wisdom, perception and personal experience, can break open the stuck place into an entirely new direction and flow.
#5: Take action every day that moves you forward. Risk ‘not knowing’ and ask for assistance when you need it for strength and focus, for to stagnate the movement and action results in squashing the spark that has been ignited. Risk having what you say you want, and believe more in yourself than you have ever done before. You are surrounded by those who want you to succeed. Let them help you.
Hi Max
I believe the answers are:
4, Revisit your why: Why is it we want to do what we are striving for, Does it resonate with our lifes purpose. Does it resonate with our values.
5. Take a few moments to get still, be present and go within. Breath and ask the devine what needs to happen to move us forward in the direction of our dream. Listen and take action. Blessings