Why Do I Feel Stuck?

Stuck seasons are invitations to grow, shift, and move differently.

We all hit those seasons where nothing seems to be moving. Doors aren’t opening. Ideas aren’t flowing. Prayers feel unanswered. You’re doing what you know to do but somehow, it still feels like you’re spinning your wheels in place. Why do I feel so stuck?

I’ve been there more times than I can count, and one thing I’ve learned is this: being stuck isn’t always about punishment, rather it’s often about preparation. It’s a moment not to panic, but to pause and ask: What is this season trying to teach me that comfort never could?

Being stuck has a way of exposing the things comfort keeps hidden like our impatience, our pride, or our need for control. I used to believe that stuck seasons were wasted time, but now I’m starting to see them as sacred opportunities for transformation. I'm discovering that God is more about changing us than changing the situation.

One hard truth I’ve had to face recently is how often I feel stuck because I am trying to fulfill God’s plan my way. Can you relate? We have the right vision, but the wrong strategy. We try to take shortcuts or force open doors instead of trusting God's timing and process. It leaves a bitter taste in our mouth and it feels forced. Nobody wants that.

In Get Serious and Other Principles to Pull You Through, there’s a chapter called “Serve Your Leaders Well.” In it, I share something that completely transformed my perspective: "Be the follower I would want to have if I were the leader." What does that have to do with being stuck? Everything.

When you feel stuck, sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is get moving by serving. Step into a role that may not look like your “big calling,” but still aligns with God’s kingdom and watch what happens. Ask Him, “Where do You need me right now?” It might mean letting go of what you thought you’d be doing in this season, and instead serving in a place that stretches you, teaches you, and prepares you for the next thing. Who would have thought that waxing a car, that the movements of "wax on, wax off" were actually teaching you karate all along? #iykyk :)

The truth is, God can’t bless a parked car. You’ve got to get moving. Support someone else’s vision. Be faithful with what’s already in your hand. And as you move in obedience (especially when it’s humbling or uncomfortable) you’ll find clarity, direction, and renewed purpose. How you follow says a lot about whether God can trust you to lead. So be faithful in the waiting.

Nugget of Truth:

Waiting is serving (just as a waiter/waitress :) So, serve in the waiting. Stuck seasons aren’t stop signs. They’re invitations to grow, shift, and move differently. Support someone who’s advancing God’s kingdom, and watch what God begins to unlock in your own life.