HBR IdeaCast
Breaking Through When You Feel Stuck
May 16, 2023
Adam Alter, a marketing professor at NYU Stern and author of 'Anatomy of a Breakthrough,' delves into the universal experience of feeling stuck. He discusses how distractions can impede progress in both personal and professional realms. Alter shares innovative strategies for overcoming stagnation, including the surprising tactic of doing nothing. He emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives and mindful actions in fostering breakthroughs, alongside psychological techniques that encourage creativity and collaboration within organizations.
27:57
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Quick takeaways
- Recognize the immersiveness of being stuck and take small actions to initiate progress.
- Overcome stuckness by slowing down, engaging in reflective decision-making, and cultivating a supportive environment for growth.
Deep dives
Understanding Being Stuck: A Universal Experience
Being stuck is a common experience that affects individuals in various life spheres, not limited to creative fields. Research has shown that successful individuals and businesses have faced periods of being stuck before pivotal breakthroughs. The experience of being stuck is distinct from mere adversity as it involves a prolonged mental blockage where individuals can sense a need for change but struggle to identify the necessary shift, a condition worsened by procrastination. Overcoming being stuck involves recognizing its immersiveness and isolating nature, encouraging small actions to initiate progress.
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