Stuck Is Often a Decision in Disguise

Whether we decide to change or not, what follows is a story.

Ever felt stuck?

In a job.

A location.

A life chapter you can’t leave and can’t fully stay in either.

Like a marriage you’re emotionally divorced from but still living inside.

Too many people are in exactly that place. Quietly. Invisibly. Every day.

And what keeps them there?

Not lack of talent.

Not lack of options.

Not even the economy.

It’s the illusion that staying is safer.

But here’s the truth most never say out loud:

Being stuck is often a decision in disguise.

We tell ourselves stories like:

• “It’s not the right time.”
• “I’ve already invested too much.”
• “I wouldn’t know where to begin again.”

But deep down, what we’re really saying is:

“I’m afraid of what comes after the change… so I’ll stay here even if it’s slowly draining me.”

And I get it.

I lived that life too.

I stayed too long.

Smiled too hard.

Tried too hard.

Chased and became something that didn’t feel like me anymore.

Until I left.

With no Plan B.

Only a decision: to follow my heart.

And here’s what I learned on the other side:

✨ Leaving doesn’t ruin your life. It often saves it.

✨ Change won’t betray you. Stagnation will.

✨ What feels like “security” is often just fear dressed up as responsibility.

So if you’re stuck — in a job, a place, a role, a life — pause and ask:

“Is this really where I have to be… or just where I’ve told myself I should be?”

You might be surprised by the answer.

And the growth that follows.

f this message spoke to you, feel free to subscribe to this newsletter.

Each week, I’ll be sharing stories, reflections and insights on what it means to change:

Careers. Cities. Countries. Or even just your mindset.

Let’s go on this journey together.

Follow your heart.

— Thomas Tsangaras