Sometimes we get stuck

Sometimes we get stuck. We come across a bump in the road, a gate in our way or a problem that we simply can’t work out.

Our brain is then brilliant and tends to go on a rampant theatrical based-on-no-foundation narrative about how we’re useless, not enough this and not enough that, how the thing we’re trying to get through to is just ‘not for us’ or that the thing we’re trying to get over or sort out is simply beyond us. This is just not the truth.

The thing about it is that with the right tools, the right support, a different internal narrative, you can pretty much overcome any bump, open any gate and solve the problem, but to do that you might need some help. And that is okay.

If right now that feels impossible to read then that’s because right at this moment you don’t have the right tools, the right support or a kind internal narrative.

Doing the same things in the same ways and thinking the same things simply won’t get us different outcomes. We mightn’t be looking for different outcomes but if we are, then we need to be willing to try something different to get to where we want to be.

The analytical and rational and methodical functions of our brain are amazing, they help us reverse engineer goals, solve problems, and discuss things logically. But, sometimes, we get cognitively a bit worn out and those functions slow right down. Which is frustrating especially if we need our brains working well – especially when we need them the most – to help us to solve stuff.

We’re also a creative lot though – even if we haven’t exercised those parts for a while. We can hack creative thinking, we only have to be willing to take ourselves away and create space between the ‘thing’ that feels insurmountable and us, and to pick up something creative or different. Something you enjoyed as a child is a good place to start if you’ve gotten a bit rusty in allowing yourself this space; painting, drawing, reading, doodle, braindump, talk with someone, colouring-in, Lego, clay-art, knitting, craft kits, making up stories, reading silly jokes, anything really that taps into your creative.

It might feel counter-intuitive to stop thinking about or pushing the ‘thing’. But, it can also feel like magic the moment you ease the pressure pedal and give yourself space, a solution or an idea or allow a different perspective to appear.

Trust me you’ve got this.

Kim Fry
UKSA Welfare Officer