A rut can lurk underneath even the most comfortable lifestyle. Sometimes, it can be easier to stay with what feels familiar, rather than take the initiative to make adjustments. Change can seem a lot harder when things are going well. Indeed, such comfort can add to the unease, as we are likely to feel guilty and critical of our dissatisfaction, appreciating how fortunate we are compared to many others.

Are you finding reasons to DO instead of not to do? One of the reasons people choose (and everything is a choice) to stay in situations they do not like is because they are afraid of losing something or someone. They do not specifically fear change, but they fear what familiarities they may have to let go of. You may have an image of yourself that will be shaken if you make different choices. You may have 'investments' in time, money, energy, relationships that you don't want to let go of. What are you afraid of losing, or who, if you take a risk, and make different choices.

We can sometimes ignore and suppress feelings of discomfort until they rupture. The good news is, getting out of a rut can be as simple as getting a new haircut, or as involved as going back to school. But both start by taking that first step. If you start your sentences with, "Someday, when," you're putting your life on hold. What you have is NOW.

You can't focus on all the things that aren't right in your life and expect to fix them over night. Aim for small achievable goals, this way you can't fail, and try to remember to have some fun on the way. So call your hardiness. Apply for college. Begin a workout routine. Sign up for music lessons or write that book you’ve been thinking about. NOW is a great time for new beginnings, so take that first step today. Get up, get going and get out of your rut. When you face your fears, experiment with new approaches, and then take consistent action, no matter how small the steps, you will feel a sense of empowering and increase your confidence.

Feeling like you are stuck in a rut can suck all of the energy out of you. Don’t stay in it. Just make some simple changes to bust out of the mold and then be on your delighted, invigorate way! You can do it!

"I wanted to live deep, and suck out all the marrow of life."

Henry David Thoreau