Why We Don’t Take Action (And How to Change That)

I’m very excited to share my second blog with you, and I hope you’ll find some useful tools that help you move forward in your own life. One of the biggest struggles I see in my clients—and something we all experience at some point—is the feeling of being stuck. You want to make a change, but something holds you back. Today, we’re going to explore why that happens and how to break free from it.

The Real Reason You’re Stuck

Most people believe they don’t take action because of external circumstances—lack of time, money, or the right opportunity. But the truth is, what’s stopping you isn’t out there. It’s inside your mind.

Our thoughts create our feelings. Our feelings drive our actions. And our actions create our results. If you’re not taking action, it’s because your thoughts are creating emotions that lead to inaction—fear, doubt, or overwhelm.

Examples of How This Plays Out

(The following names and stories are fictional, created to illustrate common struggles.):

• Sarah has spent years putting everyone else first—her kids, her partner, her colleagues. She desperately wants to set boundaries and say no without guilt, but every time she tries, she hears a voice in her head: What if they think I’m selfish? What if I let them down? So, she continues saying yes to things that drain her energy, feeling resentful and exhausted.

  
  

• James has always dreamed of switching careers and starting his own business. He’s passionate about it, he has a plan, but every time he sits down to take the first step, fear creeps in. What if I fail? What if I can’t make enough money? What will people think if I leave my stable job? So, he stays where he is—frustrated, unfulfilled, and constantly wondering what if?

  
  

Both Sarah and James think their circumstances are the problem, but in reality, it’s their thoughts keeping them stuck.

How to Shift Your Mindset

1. Notice Your Thoughts - The first step is awareness. What are you telling yourself about the action you should be taking? “I don’t know how,” “I’ll fail,” or “It won’t work” are common thoughts that keep people stuck.

   
   

2. Question Those Thoughts - Are they true? What if they’re just assumptions? What if the opposite is just as possible?

   
   

3. Choose a Thought That Serves You - Instead of “I don’t know how,” try “I can figure this out.” Instead of “I’ll fail,” try “Every failure is a step toward success.”

   
   

4. Take One Small Step - Action creates momentum. Even the tiniest step—making a call, writing an idea down, asking for help—can shift your energy and get you moving.

   
   

The Power of Coaching

This is exactly why I do what I do. Coaching helps you see what’s keeping you stuck and guides you to take action with confidence. You don’t have to do this alone.

If you’re tired of feeling stuck and ready to move forward, I’d love to help. I offer a free 1-hour coaching session to get you started. Book your session here.

Your future is waiting. Are you ready to take the first step?