We all go through times in our lives when we feel stuck, bored with our routine, and unable to move forward. Whatever the obstacles standing in our way, it’s possible to break free of the inertia holding us in place and reclaim our motivation and enthusiasm once again.
But before we can get there, we need to recognize that setbacks are a natural part of the ebb and flow of life — and that where we are now is not where we’re doomed to remain. Our potential for change and growth is boundless. As the oft-quoted Taoist proverb goes, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” We just need to have the courage to take that first step, however small, in the right direction.
For anyone who’s found themselves in a rut and yearns to break free, here are 11 encouraging quotes to remind you that a rut is just a place to rest, not a permanent residence.
Habit is necessary; it is the habit of having habits, of turning a trail into a rut, that must be incessantly fought against if one is to remain alive.Edith Wharton
Stuckness shouldn’t be avoided. It’s the psychic predecessor of all real understanding.Robert M. Pirsig
I am the master of my fate: / I am the captain of my soul.William Ernest Henley
Dreams do not come true just because you dream them. It’s hard work that makes things happen. It’s hard work that creates change.Shonda Rhimes
True life is lived when tiny changes occur.Leo Tolstoy
People are capable, at any time in their lives, of doing what they dream of.Paulo Coelho
“We’ve always done it this way” is not a good enough reason to keep doing it if it isn’t working. When an otherwise smart habit or ritual loses its potency and you continue doing it, you’re in a rut.Twyla Tharp
Things may get a little odd at times, but they work out. You don’t have to try very hard to make them work out; you just let them.Benjamin Hoff
Whatever you want to accomplish, stop overthinking it. You don’t need to have it all together. You just need to get on with it. You change your life by doing, not by thinking about doing.Gary John Bishop
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better.Samuel Beckett
We imagine that when we are thrown out of our usual ruts all is lost, but it is only then that what is new and good begins.Leo Tolstoy
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