When you watch an episode of a scripted TV show, you’re following an A story and a B story. In the A story, for example, Bill is trying to pull off one last big heist. But no matter how much he racks his brain, he can’t figure out a way to get into the bank vault. In the B story, Bill is trying to get closer to his son, so he volunteers to coach his son’s Pee-wee football team. Bill is sketching out a trick play for the upcoming game when suddenly a light bulb goes off. Eureka! Bill has stumbled onto a way to unlock that bank vault.
Life is like this at times. When you’re truly stuck, the direct approach doesn’t always work. Sometimes the only way to resolve a stressful financial situation is by addressing a longstanding relationship issue. Sometimes the only way to resolve a physical health issue is by reconsidering your career path. All aspects of your life, however seemingly unrelated, are intricately connected. You are the common denominator. When you’re not getting the results you want when focusing on one area of your life, try redirecting your focus toward another area. Getting unstuck may be less about gritting your teeth than it is opening your mind.