If you’re feeling stuck and unfulfilled, consider this: do you know your “why’? As I progress in my work and career, I find myself frequently reflecting on my “why.” For years, I did not have the luxury of simply getting up and going, but taking small steps toward my values allowed me to stay closer to my values. Values are defined as what is most important to you in terms of purpose and alignment. Your values may sound similar to “Family, success, growth, humour, and so on.

We make decisions (even if they are difficult) when we are aware of our values. We are more willing to face the challenges and discomfort that lie ahead. We are more willing to put in the effort so that we can face the challenges. What are the signs, and how do they correspond to your values?

• Lack of fulfilment over joy – Our values give our lives meaning and purpose. We can actively choose to stay or leave relationships, jobs, hobbies, and other activities based on our values. Is it time to make a change if you’re no longer experiencing joy and waiting for things to improve?
• Feeling like you’re being held back or that you’re wasting time – The relationship, environment, job, and so on were all stimulating at some point in life, but the spark faded over time. While this is normal, it also indicates that something needs to change. The longer we stay, the more it appears that we are standing still and losing time.
• Reminiscing about the past and the “good times” – Feeling obligated to stay because we are clinging to history and the “good times” is not beneficial to either party. How has this stunted growth for both parties? Can we resolve any misunderstandings and choose to move forward in peace and clarity?
• You’ve outgrown the “relationship,” and it no longer aligns with your values – We’re meant to mature into ourselves by unlearning conditioned thinking and beliefs and letting go of what no longer serves us. This does not imply that we simply use and discard people, but we cannot expect circumstances to change if we do not act.
• When it comes to making such important decisions, there is a lot of nuance and complexity. We are afraid of the unknown and may lack the resources or skills to figure out why and how. That is also a sign that you should seek assistance, conduct research, and work with a professional.

This post is not meant to motivate people to get out and about. There are transitional periods in jobs or stages in a relationship. The goal is to motivate people to act on their values. Feeling stuck and stagnant can result in burnout and emotional exhaustion. In such cases, we feel hemmed in. It is beneficial to take small steps toward what is important to you.