Hitting the Reset Button and Moving Forward

Wright, L. (2025, April 17).  Hitting the reset button and moving forward.  Grant Parish Chronicle, 151, 2.

The new year typically bursts in with high hopes, fresh goals, and a shiny optimism that says, “This time will be different!” You jot down resolutions, dust off your vision board, and promise yourself this year is the year. But then, life does what life does best—it gets messy. Plans derail, motivation evaporates, and suddenly you’re stuck. Sound familiar?

Well, guess what? Getting stuck isn’t a dead end; it’s a flashing neon sign saying, “Hey! Time to reset!” Resetting doesn’t mean scrapping everything you’ve built. It’s about recalibrating, refocusing, and moving forward with intention.

When Should You Hit the Reset Button?

Recognizing when it’s time to reset is crucial. Here are clear signs that a fresh start is overdue:

1. You’re Feeling Drained and Unmotivated. If mornings start with dread instead of coffee, your current situation isn’t working. When every day feels like Groundhog Day, a reset is calling your name.

2. You’re Feeling Stagnant. Being stuck in a job without growth or recognition isn't fulfilling—it’s exhausting. Feeling invisible or undervalued means it’s time to seek new horizons.

3. Work–Life Balance is a Myth. If your life is all work and zero play, hit that reset button—fast! Balance is vital for happiness and health.

4. You Keep Thinking, “There Must be More”. If your heart whispers that you’re destined for greater things, listen to it. Fear and routine should never override your potential for happiness and purpose.

Recognizing these signs means you’re ready for action.

Practical Steps to Reset and Move Forward

Step 1: Reflect. Pause. Evaluate what’s working—and what’s clearly not. List frustrations, spot patterns, and clarify what you truly desire moving forward.

Step 2: Set Clear, Realistic Goals. Dream big, then set SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, time-bound) goals. Tiny steps create big leaps, so plan realistically and clearly.

Step 3: Upgrade Your Skills and Mindset. Feeling stuck usually means you’re ready to grow. Learn something new, attend workshops, or find a mentor. Embrace challenges—they’re just growth opportunities disguised as hurdles.

Step 4: Expand Your Network. It’s not just what you know, it’s also who you know. Surround yourself with people who inspire and uplift. Engage in meaningful conversations, seek mentorship, and watch doors open.

Step 5: Take Action—Even Small Steps Count. Action, no matter how minor, builds momentum. Update your resume, explore new career paths, or finally launch that passion project. Every step forward counts.

My Five Rs: Framework for Intentional Resetting

Reflect: Understand what’s misaligned in your life. Clarity comes from honest self-assessment.

Release: Let go of limiting beliefs, negativity, or toxic environments. Declutter your mind.

Relate: Build positive relationships and practice gratitude. Surround yourself with joy, inspiration, and meaningful connections.

Redefine: Clarify your personal definition of success. Your goals evolve—make sure they’re aligned with who you are today.

Restart: Take action. Apply for new opportunities, make bold changes, or adopt daily habits that support your new vision.

Final Thoughts

It’s never too late to hit the reset button. Feeling stuck isn’t a sign of failure; it’s a nudge toward growth and fulfillment. Resetting is about making intentional shifts, taking small actions, and consistently progressing toward a brighter, happier life.

Ready? Your next chapter awaits. Go ahead—press that reset button today!