How often to do you muse about the things that might have been, in your life? That choice you made, the job you took that now burns you out, the education you completed that no longer inspires you to do the work in your field, or any number of other decisions that have led to your present moment. It can be easy to feel like there is no "different path", or alternative options. When we get so busy at limiting ourselves and how we see our circumstances, the narrowness of our thought processes closes off opportunities for seeing things differently. Maybe you previously were more care-free, more of a risk taker. Perhaps you would easily have quit your job 10 years ago, before looking for another one...but now hang on to the job you have out of fear of change. Maybe thinking of going to college, or going back to college is your dream but you have not attempted to reapply out of other obligations of time.
These moments of inaction, or uncertainty, can in fact leave us feeling stuck. Like we are standing in place, at the mercy of the world that seems to not notice our struggles and concerns for change - even if we are in charge of the changes we make in our life. Many of the clients I help in my practice, identify with a feeling of uncertainty about their future, but also feel locked into a routine that mimics a mouse on a wheel. Sometimes, it can be easy and even understandable that one might think they are "not going anywhere", even though they are moving. Many of my clients in the Tacoma and surrounding areas, experience a feeling of "no opportunities" or job insecurity in the region leading to uncertainty of being able to support you or family. It becomes important to be proactive about making changes. Talking about making changes, is not the same thing as taking an action step - even a small step, in a new direction.
Brainstorming ideas, (using a marking whiteboard or a digital software program that offers the same features of marking up) can be a great starting point of untangling random thoughts or building to more robust plans of change. Seeking one's highest good for change, also requires us to reflect on what we need for self-care - in our work, in our friendships, or other areas of our life. We are impacted in many big ways, but in small ways too. As we move toward making changes in our life circumstances, we begin to see the possibilities of what our life could be like if done differently, perhaps even better than it is now. Counseling can help. As a therapist, I work with client struggling with amny of these issues, and as an outside observer and supportive listener, I can offer ideas in the brainstorming and action steps that can lead you to a better life. If I can help you in this process and you live in Tacoma or the surrounding areas or in Washington state generally, consider reaching out to me for help. I would be happy to speak with you.