In the middle of stress, frustration, or overwhelm, it’s easy to feel boxed in—like there’s no real choice. But often, better options are there. You just have to know how to find them.

Here are three simple ways to do that:

1. Pause to Give Your Brain Time to Analyze
Your brain is wired for speed. In moments of pressure, it tries to find the fastest solution—usually the one you’ve used before, even if it doesn’t serve you. A simple pause breaks that reflex. Just a few seconds of space lets your brain shift from automatic reaction to thoughtful response. That pause is where better choices begin.

2. Require Yourself to Find 3 Choices
Once you’ve paused, push your thinking. Tell yourself, “I need three options.” Even if they’re imperfect, creative, or uncomfortable, this exercise immediately breaks the illusion of being stuck. You move from “I have to” to “I could…”—and that shift alone can change the outcome.

3. Think Unrealistically—Then Zoom In
If you feel stuck, imagine the boldest, most unrealistic option. Maybe it’s quitting, canceling, or completely changing direction. Then ask: What would the first one or two steps be to do that? You don’t have to take the big leap, but those early steps often reveal new, realistic actions you can take today.

Remember, you’re rarely out of options. You might just be out of perspective.

You’ll be surprised how many doors open once you stop assuming they’re closed.

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