The two kinds of ruts

To successfully get out of a rut, you need to first figure out what kind of a rut you are in.

• An Overload Rut means you have too much on your plate. You are on the go (physically and mentally) 24/7. And no matter how much you have to do, you always agree to take on one more task.

• A Comfort Rut is all about keeping things the same. Nothing changes—not your appearance, your attitudes or your relationships. And you will go to great lengths to keep it that way.

Once you know what type of rut you’re in, try the following strategies to climb out:

Overload Rut: Do one thing just for you in the next 7 days. It can be as simple as taking a daily 10-minute walk or having lunch with a friend. Say “yes” to your needs—which might require saying “no” to someone else’s wants! This isn’t selfish—it’s self-care.

Comfort Rut: Make one small shift in your life this week. For example, if you spend most of your day working with your mind, choose an activity that will allow you to work with your hands. Or if your days are spent dealing with people, then set aside some time to be alone—no people, no distractions (think television, radio, Blackberry). Do something different, not more-of-the-same.

(Need some ideas? E-mail me for my “Rut-Busting” tip list!)