A compassionate look at what holds us back
Have you ever felt ready—at least in theory—to start something new, begin again, or rebuild…only to find yourself stuck?
You’re not alone.
Starting—whether it’s a fresh beginning, a return to something you left behind, or a total do-over—can feel harder than we expect.
It doesn’t mean you’re lazy. It doesn’t mean you’re unmotivated.
It often means there are hidden reasons beneath the surface, quietly holding you in place.
Today, let’s name them together—gently and without judgment.
Why We Struggle to Start
Not Knowing What You Really Want
Sometimes, the hardest part is simply not being sure.
Maybe you feel disconnected from your own desires or purpose.
Maybe you’re overwhelmed by all the options.
Maybe you’ve spent so long meeting everyone else’s expectations that you’ve lost touch with your own.
Perfectionism
Perfectionism whispers that if you can’t do it flawlessly, you shouldn’t do it at all.
You might fear failing, looking foolish, or disappointing people who matter to you.
This pressure can feel so heavy that staying still seems safer.
Fear of the Unknown
Change always comes with uncertainty.
Even when you’re unhappy where you are, it can feel easier to stay with what you know than risk what you don’t.
Fear of the unknown is part of being human.
Past Disappointments
If you’ve tried before and it didn’t work out, it’s natural to hesitate.
Old hurts and failures can echo in the present, telling you not to trust yourself or your hopes.
But those past experiences don’t define your capacity to begin again.
Overthinking
Sometimes, we spend so much time planning, analyzing, or researching that we never actually take action.
Waiting for the “perfect time” can turn into never moving at all.
Lack of Energy or Emotional Bandwidth
When you’re exhausted, grieving, burned out, or emotionally drained, starting anything can feel impossible.
This isn’t weakness—it’s a signal that you may need rest before movement.
External Pressures
It’s hard to start something when you’re worried about what others will think.
When you feel pulled between your truth and others’ expectations, it can be paralyzing.
A Gentle Reframe
Naming these barriers isn’t about blaming yourself.
It’s about clarity.
Once you understand why you feel stuck, you can start to choose differently—one small step at a time.
There’s no rush. You don’t have to do it perfectly.
You just have to begin, when you’re ready.
A Final Encouragement
If you’re here—reading, reflecting, wondering—it means you care about your life.
You care about growing and honoring what matters to you.
And that’s something to be proud of.
You are not behind.
You are not broken.
You are simply human.
In my next post, I’ll share simple ways to overcome each of these obstacles, so you can begin in a way that feels honest and doable.
A Reflection for Your Heart
Which of these barriers feels most true for me right now?
What would it feel like to give myself grace in this place?
You deserve patience, hope, and the gentle belief that starting is possible—even if it takes time.
—Laura