5 Steps to Get Un-Stuck in Your 30s
Let’s face it—your 30s can feel like a weird limbo. You’ve probably checked some of the “big life boxes,” but somewhere along the way, you might’ve lost a little spark. Or maybe you’re waking up every day thinking, Is this it? Getting stuck is normal—it just means you’re ready to grow. Here’s how to break free and make your 30s the chapter where you truly thrive.
Get Clear on What Matters Now
Who you were at 25 isn’t who you are at 35, and that’s a good thing. Life changes—and so do you. Take a step back and ask yourself: What actually matters to me now? Whether it’s prioritizing family, finding meaningful work, or learning to just enjoy life, reconnecting with your core values is the foundation for getting unstuck.
Try This: Write down your top 5 values today. Compare them to who you were five years ago. What’s shifted? What needs more attention?
If you don’t know where to start you can reference this list for ideas: https://brenebrown.com/resources/dare-to-lead-list-of-values/
Stop People-Pleasing and Start Pleasing Yourself
Let me remind you—you are people too. If you’re feeling drained, it’s probably because you’ve been putting everyone else first. Say it with me: Boundaries are self-care. Learning to say no doesn’t make you selfish; it makes you human.
Pro Tip: Next time you feel the urge to say yes to something you don’t want to do, pause and ask yourself, Does this align with what I need right now?
Do Something (Anything) New
Being stuck often comes down to feeling like every day looks the same. So switch it up—whether it’s a cooking class, solo travel, or trying hot yoga for the first time, new experiences shake up your brain and give you fresh perspectives. Seriously though - new experiences literally help us fire new neural pathways. This is a good thing.
Challenge Yourself: Make a “mini bucket list” for the next 6 months. Aim for 3 small things you’ve never done before—bonus points if they scare you a little.
Turn Failures Into Fuel
Okay, real talk—nobody loves failing. But the truth is, the only way out of a rut is through. Every misstep or setback is actually a sign that you’re growing. Instead of beating yourself up, ask, What is this teaching me? Then use that wisdom to make your next move.
Pro Tip: Start a “Wins and Lessons” list. Every time something goes wrong, write down what you learned and one thing you’re proud of.
Check Your Circle
Look around—are the people in your life building you up or dragging you down? It’s time to lean into the relationships that energize you and gently distance yourself from the ones that drain you. A solid support system can make all the difference when you’re trying to make changes.
Try This: Reach out to someone who inspires you—a mentor, a friend, or even a therapist—and set up a time to connect.
Getting unstuck isn’t about flipping your entire life upside down overnight. It’s about showing up for yourself in small, meaningful ways that add up over time. You’re not stuck; you’re just on the edge of something new. So take a deep breath, embrace the discomfort, and keep moving forward—you’ve got this.
