Breaking Free from Feeling Stuck: The Power of Self-Awareness and Taking That First Step

We’ve all experienced it—that frustrating feeling of being stuck, unsure of what to do next and caught in repetitive patterns that seem impossible to change.

Whether it’s in relationships, career choices, or personal growth, the hardest part is often knowing how to move forward. But here’s the truth: change doesn’t require a grand plan. It starts with one small step.

Every decision we make has the potential to shift our path in ways we never expected. Sometimes, all it takes is trying something new—exploring a different way of thinking, learning about ourselves, or stepping outside of our comfort zone. This process of self-awareness is key to breaking free from cycles that no longer serve us.

Transactional Analysis (TA) offers valuable insights into why we sometimes feel stuck. One of its core ideas is ego states—the Parent, Adult and Child modes we unconsciously switch between in our interactions. Recognising these patterns can help us respond differently, improve our relationships and help us make more conscious choices that align with who we truly are. When we understand what drives our decisions, we gain the power to change them.

If you’re feeling stuck, perhaps the answer isn’t to wait for clarity but to take a step—any step—that shifts your perspective. Read something that challenges you, sign up for a course, start a conversation. Movement creates momentum and even a small decision can set you on a path to unexpected opportunities.

Many people who attend our TA101 course at The Link Centre initially see it as a standalone experience—a way to explore psychology or gain insight into human behaviour. But for so many, it becomes a turning point. The self-awareness they develop sparks new possibilities, and what starts as a weekend of learning often leads to a deeper journey.

Many go on to train as Counsellors or Psychotherapists, not because they planned to, but because understanding themselves better opened doors they never considered. If you’re ready to take a step forward, learn more about our TA101 course HERE.

Words by Laura Mitchell