An Idea For When You Feel Stuck

As I write this in March, spring is just around the corner. Here in the 615 Area Code, yellow daffodils are popping up all over the place. Evidence of a new season. Signs of growth.

If you’re like me you get hopeful when you feel or see growth. However, that’s just the evidence; it’s not the actual growth.

PROGRESS HAPPENS HERE

If you’re not careful--bad habits, patterns, and crutches are easy to fall back into. I caught myself opening on-air breaks the exact same way the other day when I was voice tracking: station name, artist, song title, my name. So frustrating!

Self-awareness and making adjustments are important. Having someone in your life to help guide you can make a difference too.

During on-air coaching sessions I do my best to remind each gifted communicator that progress is not a straight line from point A to point B. Growth is often messy, frustrating, and mundane at times. Days and maybe even weeks of being stuck can feel like a prison. But before you know it a light bulb turns on in your brain and confidence sprouts like a yellow daffodil.

HERE’S THE TAKEAWAY

I learned long ago that life really is two steps forward and one step back. Grinding through the “one step back” is where character builds and growth actually happens. Many times, you just don’t realize that you’re making progress until you come out of that season. So, double down on resilience and keep honing your craft even when you don’t see or feel evidence of growth.

After spending 25+ years working in leadership, programming, and on the air at 95.5 The Fish in Cleveland, 104.9 the River in Columbus, and as Network PD at WayFM Todd launched a coaching and consulting business, Beyond615.com, on March 15, 2021. There he strives to help others build confidence so that they can connect with listeners on a deeper level. He also serves as the Contemporary Christian Format Editor at AllAccess.com. He and his family live in the (615) area code, aka the heart of the CCM industry.