How to Get Un-Stuck

We all hit walls. Life throws challenges at us, and sometimes it feels like you’re spinning your wheels. No progress. No momentum. You’re stuck. It happens to everyone. But here’s the truth: staying stuck is a choice. If you’re part of this crew, you know we’re not about staying down. Let’s dig in and find a way forward.

Step 1: Own It

The first move is simple but tough. Take full ownership. No excuses, no blaming others. Look in the mirror and ask, “What’s holding me back?” Maybe it’s fear, procrastination, or self-doubt.

Own it. A Navy SEAL doesn’t sit around waiting for someone else to fix the problem. Neither do you.

Step 2: Set a Small Target

When you’re stuck, the big picture can feel overwhelming. Forget the mountain for a second. Focus on the next step. In BUD/S training, we broke tough days into chunks—make it to the next meal, the next evolution.

What’s your small win today? Maybe it’s 10 push-ups, a 5-minute journal session, or finishing one task you’ve been avoiding. Small wins build momentum.

Step 3: Change Your Environment

Sometimes, the place you’re in keeps you stuck. If your space feels heavy, shift it. Clean your workspace. Go outside. Get fresh air. On missions, SEALs adapt to the terrain. If your current setup isn’t working, change it. A new view can spark new energy.

Step 4: Lean on Your Team

You’re not alone. SEALs operate as a team for a reason. We lean on each other when things get tough. Call a friend, a coach, or a teammate. Share where you’re at. A quick conversation can open doors you didn’t see before. SEALgrinderPT athletes know this—we rise together.

Step 5: Embrace the Grind

Being stuck often means you’re resisting something hard. Flip the mindset. Instead of avoiding the grind, lean into it. Whether it’s a tough workout, a messy project, or a difficult decision, tackle it head-on. Action beats fear every time. Remember: the only easy day was yesterday.

Step 6: Visualize the Mission

What does success look like? Take five minutes and picture it. Athletes, visualize the race, the lift, or the finish line. In the Teams, we’d visualize a mission step by step. When you see the outcome clearly, it’s easier to move toward it.

Step 7: Check Your Fuel

Are you running on empty? Being stuck can sometimes be about energy. Are you eating clean? Drinking enough water? Getting enough quality sleep every night? You wouldn’t drive a truck with no gas. Your body and mind are no different. Tune up your system.

Real-World Example

One of our SEALgrinderPT athletes, Jake, hit a wall prepping for his first GORUCK event. His training stalled, and he doubted himself. We broke it down. Small targets: ruck 2 miles instead of 6. Change of environment: trained on new trails. Lean on the team: reached out for advice. Within weeks, Jake crushed his training and dominated the event. The process works.

Closing Thoughts

Getting un-stuck isn’t magic. It’s a mission. It takes ownership, small steps, and consistent action. You’re part of the SEALgrinderPT tribe—we don’t quit. When you feel stuck, remember this: the obstacle is the way. Push through, and you’ll come out stronger on the other side. Keep grinding.

About the Author:

Chasing big goals?

Whether it’s a Spartan Race, GORUCK event, Tough Mudder, or SEALFIT 20X Challenge, Coach Brad McLeod—former Navy SEAL—is here to help.

Get personalized coaching through SGPT and crush your next mission.

Let’s get after it!.

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