Stuck in the Messy Middle?

They say getting started is the hardest part, but if you’ve ever worked towards a goal, you’ll know the middle can be just as tough.

That initial burst of energy fades…
Unexpected obstacles pop up…
Things take longer than you thought they would…

And you find yourself stuck, frustrated and tired!

If that’s where you find yourself today, welcome to the messy middle. It doesn’t mean you’re off track. It means you’re in it.

Here are 5 strategies to help you keep going when it gets hard:

1. Look back before you look ahead.
Take a moment to reflect on how far you’ve already come. Small wins, lessons learned, things you’ve figured out—they all count. Remember to acknowledge and celebrate them all.

2. Simplify the next step.
When everything feels overwhelming, zoom in. What’s one small action you can take today? You don’t need to do it all. Just do something.

3. Take a break, then come back.
Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is rest. Step away, breathe, go for a walk, or sleep on it. Then come back with fresh energy.

4. Mix it up.
Could you try a new approach? Add some novelty, music, movement, co-working for accountability or working in a new location. Changing how you do the work can reignite motivation.

5. Dangle a carrot.
Set up small rewards along the way. Celebrate progress with something you enjoy. Give Future You something to look forward to because you’re doing hard things, and that deserves recognition.

It is completely normal to feel stuck in the messy middle. Choose one way you can continue to move forward and keep going—you’re closer than you think.

kellycoopercoaching.com