She Strengthens

Unlocking a New Chapter: Breaking Free from Feeling Stuck

As we embark on a fresh new year, many of us set our sights on creating positive change in our lives. However, for most, the excitement of a new year wears off quickly, leaving us feeling stuck and struggling to overcome past traumas. To gain a deeper understanding of these feelings, I sat down with Britt Frank, a renowned psychotherapist and author of “The Science of Stuck,” to explore the complexities of emotional triggers and the art of breaking free.

Understanding Triggers and Emotional Responses

Britt shared her personal journey of overcoming past traumas, offering valuable insights into the world of triggers and emotional responses. According to Britt, identifying our triggers is crucial to moving forward. But what exactly is a trigger, and how do we recognize when we’re triggered? Britt explains that a trigger is an event, person, or situation that sparks an intense emotional response, often leaving us feeling stuck.

Taking Ownership of Our Emotions

One of the most significant takeaways from our conversation was the importance of acknowledging that others are not responsible for our triggers. Rather, we must take ownership of our emotions and recognize that our reactions are often rooted in past experiences. Britt emphasizes that trying to figure out our triggers when we’re in the midst of an emotional storm is futile. Instead, we must learn to calm our minds and approach our emotions with a rational perspective.

Defining Stuckness and the Fight, Flight, or Freeze Response

Britt defines stuckness as feeling emotionally paralyzed, unable to move forward due to past traumas or negative experiences. She explains that many people live in a state of fight, flight, or freeze, constantly reacting to their emotions rather than addressing the underlying issues. To break free from this cycle, we must learn to acknowledge our emotions and develop a growth mindset.

Celebrating Small Victories and Reframing Our Focus

When we’re feeling stuck, it’s essential to celebrate small victories and reframe our focus on what’s working in our lives. Britt suggests zooming out and taking a step back to appreciate the positive aspects of our lives. By doing so, we can begin to shift our focus away from what’s holding us back and towards what’s propelling us forward.

Rethinking Negative Self-Talk and Social Media

Britt also sheds light on the destructive power of negative self-talk and how social media can perpetuate these harmful thoughts. Instead of beating ourselves up over perceived shortcomings, we must learn to reframe our thoughts and focus on the whole truth. By doing so, we can begin to train our brains to focus on the positive aspects of our lives.

Breaking Free from Stuckness

Throughout our conversation, Britt shares numerous tools and strategies for breaking free from stuckness. From the “checkboard tool” to recognizing our motivations, Britt provides a wealth of knowledge to help us overcome our emotional obstacles. By applying these insights, we can begin to unlock a new chapter in our lives, one that’s filled with purpose, growth, and positive change.

Continuing the Conversation

If you’re inspired to continue the conversation and learn more about overcoming stuckness, be sure to follow Britt on Instagram @BrittFrank and purchase her book, “The Science of Stuck,” at major retailers and online.