Wondering how to get out of a rut?

Psychologists share 11 steps to stop feeling stuck in your life and be more mindful in any situation.

Your Low-Stress Guide to Leveling-Up Your Bedtime Routine

Are You Burnt Out or Depressed?

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Maybe youve been going through the motions at work or taking a half-hearted approach to your relationships.

Either way, a change of pace is necessary.

Read on for expert advice and tips about how to get out of a rut.

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National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Chief Medical Officer and author ofYou Are Not Alone: The NAMI Guide to Navigating Mental Health

What is the definition of a mental rut?

Being in a mental rut is going to look different on everyone.

Stagar says this is the root of getting out of any rut.

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(More on this below.)

Before you may feel stuck mentally, create a toolkit of those coping mechanisms.

Engage in self-care

Taking care of yourself is vital.

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Let go of perfectionism

Some people have high standards for themselves and expect everything they do to be perfect.

The truth is, though, small changes can have a huge impact, says Dr. Duckworth.

He recommends sticking to your normal routine and not throwing it off too much if you might help it.

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National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Chief Medical Officer and author ofYou Are Not Alone: The NAMI Guide to Navigating Mental Health

While some may prefer a regular vision board, for others this can be incredibly motivating.

Write about your feelings

If an anti-vision board isnt in your creative wheelhouse, try journaling.

Writing down your negative thoughts or how youre feeling day to day can help you work through hard feelings.

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It can also help you process and reframe your thoughts.

Cognitive behavior therapy examines your automatic negative thoughts and helps you think through them, says Dr. Duckworth.

Why am I stuck in a rut?

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What one might find stressful or intense, another might not.

Similarly, there are several different reasons a person may find themselves stuck in a rut.

Family stressors

Family stressors can vary depending on family dynamics.

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Sometimes, a sense of shame can prevent individuals from seeking help, as well, adds Dr. Duckworth.

Here are three signs you might be stuck in a rut.

Self-affirmation phrases tend to have a bad reputation, says Stagar.

They are viewed by most people as trite quips of toxic positivity that are untethered to reality.

for do this, make clear and specific goals for yourself that seem attainable and relevant.

Next, determine what measurable assets you have to achieve these objectives and set time-based goals for yourself.

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