Feeling Stuck

Feeling Stuck? My 5-Step Plan to Get Unstuck & Move Forward

Hey! I’m Ro, a freelance software developer from the UK, currently living in Canada. Lately, I’ve been feeling stuck and overwhelmed, so I decided to switch things up and make a plan to get back on track. Here’s how I’m tackling that stuck feeling and what I’m doing to move forward.

Taking It Easy & Recognising the Problem

This week’s been a bit slow. I’ve been working on two projects, but I’m also trying to take it easy. The real challenge for me is switching off-my downtime doesn’t feel like real rest. The only way I truly switch my brain off is by doing simple, mundane things like cleaning. It helps me focus on the present and slow down.

I heard somewhere that if you’re struggling, just making your bed in the morning can help. It’s a small win that sets the tone for the day, and it’s become a daily habit for me. Even on tough days, I know I’ve at least accomplished that.

Dealing with Decision Paralysis

Right now, I have a lot of projects and ideas-my React Native app, Solo Studio, and more. But I’m feeling stuck, not just procrastinating, but truly frozen. Even my 9-to-5 work feels hard to get started. It’s not a lack of motivation, but more like decision paralysis.

When I try to relax, my mind races and I feel guilty for not being productive. It’s a vicious cycle. Even playing video games for downtime makes me feel like I’m wasting time. Social media doesn’t help, but I try not to compare myself to others.

Navigating Downtime & Self-Compassion

Sometimes, I find myself mentally checked out, even when talking to people. I’m on a quest to quiet my mind and learn to be okay with downtime. Getting outside for a coffee or journaling helps, but it’s still tough not to feel bad about taking time off.

I know I’m not the only one who feels this way, so I wanted to share my experience. If you’ve gone through something similar, I’d love to hear how you deal with it.

My 5-Step Action Plan to Get Unstuck

After a restless night, I woke up early and decided to make a plan. Here’s what I’m focusing on:

1. Movement
   I need to move every hour-walk, stretch, do squats, whatever gets the blood pumping. Health is wealth, and sitting all day isn’t helping.
2. Hit the Books
   Less tech time, more learning. I want to get back into studying data structures, algorithms, and systems design. I’m also reading non-tech books, like "The Power of Geography," to broaden my perspective.
3. Plan & Routine
   I’m terrible at consistency outside my 9-to-5, so I’m creating a routine for my ideas and projects. I’m adopting Noah Kagan’s 48-hour validation rule: try to get feedback or validation on new ideas within 48 hours, not just chase money but see if others find value.
4. Learn to Let Go
   I need to practice mindfulness and let go of overthinking and pressure. Mandatory chill-out time is now part of my routine. I’m also letting go of projects or habits that don’t serve me.
5. Do Things for the Love of It
   This is the biggest one-doing things because I love them, not just for money or external validation. I want to focus on making videos and building things I’m passionate about, even if only my family watches. The goal is to remove pressure and enjoy the process.

Final Thoughts

I’m not stopping my indie hacking or startup journey, but I’m shifting focus to what I truly love. Documenting this process is part of that. If you relate to feeling stuck, know you’re not alone. Let me know how you’re doing and what you’re building!

Thanks for reading-if you enjoyed this, feel free to reach out or share your own experiences, I would love to hear from you!