How to Keep Going When You Feel Like Giving Up
Written by Michelle Ong | April 5, 2025 | Growth, Motivation, Opinion
Feeling lost and hopeless? Discover practical, empowering steps to resist giving up and start rebuilding hope, one small action at a time.
Feeling lost and hopeless can feel like being stuck in quicksand—no matter how hard you try, it seems impossible to get out. But even in these tough moments, there’s a way forward. Here are practical steps to help you resist giving up and start finding hope again.
1. Decide You Want To Change
“Change happens when the pain of staying the same is greater than the pain of change.”—Tony Robbins
Change starts with a firm decision. Don’t wait for tomorrow—choose today to make things better. Think of it like deciding to clean a messy room. The longer you put it off, the harder it feels. But once you start, you realize it’s doable. The same goes for change.
2. Cut Down Your Options
When you have too many exit paths, it’s easy to make excuses. Imagine trying to eat healthier but keeping junk food in the house—it’s tempting. The same applies here. Remove the easy outs. Push yourself to start, even if it’s just one small action, and commit to moving forward without looking back.
3. Make A Plan
Sketch out a simple six-month plan. Want a new job? List the skills you need, the resources you have, and what you need to get. Set realistic goals. For example, if learning a new skill feels overwhelming, aim to practice 30 minutes a day. Small steps count. Create deadlines to stay on track and motivated.
4. Take Action
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” —Lao Tzu.
Start learning, researching, and asking questions. Expect self-doubt—it’s normal. If you know someone who’s already done what you’re aiming for, ask them for advice. Don’t feel you have to figure it out alone. Progress may be slow, but every small step is a win.
5. Perform The Tasks
“Do not wait to strike till the iron is hot, but make it hot by striking.” —William Butler Yeats.
Put what you’ve learned into action. It might feel uncomfortable at first, like starting a workout after months of inactivity. But the more you show up, the easier it gets. Focus on progress, not perfection. It’s okay if things feel uncertain—confidence will grow with time.
6. Build New Routines & Anchors
Routine builds momentum. Start with small, consistent habits—like a morning walk or journaling your progress. Join groups or communities that align with your goals. Surrounding yourself with like-minded people keeps motivation high and makes the journey feel less lonely.
Check out my posts on how you can build sustainable routines and form long-lasting habits.
7. Avoid Old Patterns
“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” —Aristotle.
Be aware of habits that pulled you into the rut in the first place. If procrastination was a problem, set smaller tasks. If negativity crept in, write down one thing you’re grateful for each day. Regular reminders of why you started can keep you focused on the change you’re building.
8. Show Up For Yourself
Growth is about showing up, even when it’s tough. Track small wins—like completing a task you dreaded. Accept that some days will be harder than others. Feeling stuck or frustrated doesn’t mean failure. It means you’re growing.
9. Accept Imperfections
“Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” —Confucius.
Not every day will go smoothly, and that’s okay. You don’t have to be positive all the time. If you stumble, don’t beat yourself up. Learn from it and try again. Progress isn’t about being perfect; it’s about not giving up.
10. Embrace Your Resilience
“You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated.” —Maya Angelou.
You’ve faced challenges before and came through. You can do it again. Tough moments are temporary. When it feels overwhelming, remind yourself: “This will pass, and I am stronger than I think.”
Final Thoughts
Feeling hopeless doesn’t mean you’re without hope. Every small action you take is a step toward change. Be kind to yourself, trust in your resilience, and keep moving. Progress is possible, even when it feels slow. You have the strength to shape your future—one small step at a time.
Learn how to simplify your life and boost success in this post.
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