Why you feel stuck — and how to get motivated - Shannon Odell
Updated: February 23, 2025
Summary
Feeling stuck in the middle of a project is a common experience during uncertainties or setbacks. Psychologists note the 'stuck in the middle' effect, where motivation is high at the start and end of a task but dips in between. Breaking down complex issues into smaller sub-goals, focusing on achievable milestones, and embracing imperfections can help combat powerlessness and stay motivated. Individual actions, such as volunteering or protesting, play a crucial role in addressing global challenges like social inequality or climate crisis. Connecting with diverse communities and embracing unique perspectives can lead to positive feedback loops and strengthen resolve during challenging times.
Facing Challenges in Projects
Feeling stuck in the middle of a project is common when facing uncertainties or setbacks. This can happen in various tasks, from simple term papers to complex issues like social inequality or climate crisis.
Motivation Peaks at Start and Finish
Psychologists identify the 'stuck in the middle' effect where motivation is high at the beginning and end of a project. Progress towards a goal can seem like a win initially, but frustration may arise when focusing on the distance still to be covered.
Shifting Focus to Sub-Goals
Breaking down large-scale and complex issues into smaller sub-goals can help combat feelings of powerlessness. Focusing on achievable milestones allows for more frequent celebrations of progress.
Taking Action Despite Challenges
Despite obstacles and the overwhelming nature of global issues, individuals can take action by focusing on their unique perspectives and contributing in various ways such as volunteering, voting, or protesting.
Harnessing Outrage and Building Momentum
Concern and passion for a cause are essential, and when channeled correctly, outrage can be a unifying force against injustices. Individual actions play a crucial role in building collective momentum towards shared goals.
Finding Community and Building Connections
Connecting with diverse communities and harnessing unique perspectives can lead to positive feedback loops, inspiration, and joy. Community engagement offers numerous benefits and strengthens one's resolve during challenging times.
Navigating Sticking Points in Goals
The path to achieving any goal will have hurdles and obstacles. Embracing imperfections and seeking inspiration from milestones, no matter how small, is vital in overcoming challenges and staying motivated.
FAQ
Q: What is the 'stuck in the middle' effect identified by psychologists?
A: The 'stuck in the middle' effect is where motivation is high at the beginning and end of a project, but frustration may arise in the middle when focusing on the distance still to be covered.
Q: How can breaking down large-scale and complex issues into smaller sub-goals help combat feelings of powerlessness?
A: Breaking down large-scale and complex issues into smaller sub-goals allows for more frequent celebrations of progress, combating feelings of powerlessness.
Q: What are some ways individuals can take action against overwhelming global issues?
A: Individuals can take action by focusing on their unique perspectives and contributing in various ways such as volunteering, voting, or protesting.
Q: How can outrage be a unifying force against injustices?
A: When channeled correctly, outrage can be a unifying force against injustices by focusing concern and passion for a cause towards productive actions.
Q: Why do individual actions play a crucial role in building collective momentum towards shared goals?
A: Individual actions play a crucial role in building collective momentum towards shared goals by connecting with diverse communities and contributing unique perspectives.
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