Stuck in a Rut?

Do you find yourself wondering if there is a way out of this rut?

Well, first you will need to ask yourself two more questions: Are you tired of being in the same old rut and truly want to see change? Or have you been here so long, you've decorated it and it's become 'home'?

There is a real way to get out of any rut that you are currently stuck in, even if it seems that you have tried every trick in the book. Yet in order to get out, you truly have to be committed to having change occur. It is that simple.

If the rut you are in now, doesn't quite feel right, but yet still provides comfort, you may not be ready for change. Similar to the old couch you've been sitting on for years. It's worn out, has stains, and doesn't really go with the décor, yet is still so comfortable, so you keep it. This is called: The Contemplative Stage. You are thinking about it, conscious of its' weathered appearance, but that's about it.

If this is where you are, there is nothing to do, but accept that this is where you are. Even though it appears there is no forward movement in this stage, it does serve a purpose, as it is the first step towards change. It is an important stage, because you are becoming aware of what is going on around you.

When you are ready to get out of the rut, though, it will feel very different. If you are ready for a change, the couch will be something you look at almost in disgust, wondering how you sat on it for as long as you did. You may stand up and think, I don't think I can ever sit on that couch again. It is the point you reach, when even though you may not know what to do next, you know it has to be different than what you have been doing. Only then will you know that you are ready for change.

Here are some ways to make powerful changes:

1 - Visualize the change occurring in your life.

2 - Be open to possibility.

3 - Learn to live in the moment, without focusing on what might occur next.

4 - Own your commitment to wanting a change to occur.

5 - Reach out for help from someone that can hold you accountable.

Real, lasting change can occur if you allow it to occur. If you truly want it, are willing to do things differently and are willing to do the work to "create" it, you can have it. If you are a visual learner, there are many great books you can read that focus on positive change in your life. If you are a hands-on type of learner, you may want to consider hiring a Coach to help you move forward. A Life Coach is someone committed to you and your goals and can help you reach your full potential, even if you are unclear what your potential is.

Most importantly, be patient with yourself. It may feel uncomfortable while all the changes are occurring, but ultimately, the unknown will feel exciting and comfortable all at the same time!

Lesley Geller is a Business Coach. She helps successful professionals exceed their expectations of growth. She works with small business owners, as well as individuals in large corporations looking to reach the next level. Lesley graduated from the University of Maryland is certified as a Coach through the Coach Training Alliance, which is recognized by the International Coach Federation. She is also a Freelance Writer and co-author of: 101 Great Ways to Improve Your Life. For more information about how to reach the potential you're capable of, visit her website at http://www.LesleyGeller.com or e-mail her at Lesley@LesleyGeller.com