Nov 14, 2024

When the Usual Approach Isn’t Enough

Every so often, we find ourselves putting in the effort, yet the results don’t seem to reflect the work. It’s like trying to open a locked door with the same key over and over, even when it clearly isn’t working. When this happens, it might be time to take a step back and think about trying a new approach. You don’t have to abandon your goals; sometimes, you just need a little fresh perspective to keep moving forward.

What I’ve found helpful is bringing in a little clarity, which can be done through something as simple as a clarity journal. Writing things out gives my mind a reset, making it easier to see what might need adjusting. Using a planning journal is like creating a flexible roadmap—you’re heading in the same direction but with the freedom to take detours. These small adjustments can make all the difference in actually feeling like progress is happening.

Related: The Guided Clarity Journal

Why Different Approaches Can Change Everything

Switching things up doesn’t mean the goal itself has to change. Maybe you’re aiming to get fit, write a book, or start a new career. The goal is still there, but how you get there might need a bit of creativity. I love using creative journaling for this reason. When I’m stuck, doodling out ideas or jotting down random thoughts sometimes brings clarity in a way that rigid planning doesn’t. For anyone who feels boxed in by their own routines, tapping into creative energy can lead to surprising new options.

Sometimes, taking a new approach is just plain motivating. There’s nothing worse than feeling like you’re banging your head against the same wall day after day. It’s why I’ve leaned into self-help journal writing when I need to reflect on what’s working or what I could let go of. It helps me take a break from the endless loops of “I have to do it this way,” and instead asks, “How else could I approach this?”

Ways to Start Seeing Progress

Let me share a few tips that have helped me break through that “stuck” feeling:

Look Back to Move Forward: Spend a bit of time journaling about what’s worked (or hasn’t) in the past. I like to keep a journal for you dedicated to reflections and realizations about my goals. It’s amazing how looking back can give you a sense of where you may need a shift.
Break Down Goals with Flexibility in Mind: If I’ve learned anything, it’s that being flexible is often the difference between getting frustrated and finding a new way forward. Setting small, adjustable steps in my planning journal keeps me going, and it reminds me that I don’t have to take the same route every time.
Bring in a Little Creativity: Using creative journaling to brainstorm new ideas has been a game-changer. Sometimes I’ll create a mind map, write down “what if” questions, or sketch out new paths. I’ve had moments where the smallest spark from these exercises brings fresh energy into the pursuit of my goals.
Check-in With Yourself Often: It’s easy to lose track if you’re only focused on the end result. Taking time each week or month to review my plans in my self-help journal keeps me grounded and helps me stay true to what I want.

We all have goals that mean the world to us, but staying stuck in one approach can feel like driving in circles. Giving yourself permission to try new methods allow room for growth. I’ve realized that flexibility doesn’t take away from the goal; it just keeps it alive, no matter how many twists the path takes. So, here’s to trying something new, staying clear on what we want, and being open to whatever might help us get there.