E363 | How to Guide Someone Who's Stuck Or Languishing

We’ve all been there. Stuck, unmotivated, and unsure of what to do or where to go next. And just as we’ve struggled, we’ve also had to help others who can’t seem to move forward. Whether you’re a leader, manager, mentor, or just someone who wants to be more effective in tough conversations, knowing how to cut through resistance is a critical skill.

People don’t just fear failure, they fear success. Staying stuck, or just refusing to advance, feels safer than the prospect of higher expectations and the weight of added responsibility. 

People are complicated, and it’s not as simple as offering advice or motivation. Different personalities bring different sources of resistance, and pushing too hard, or in the wrong way, can backfire.

So how do you actually help? How do you guide someone toward action without overwhelming them? In this episode, we break down the principles of managing these interactions so you can help them get out of their own way without getting stuck yourself.

In this practical episode, Brett covers: 

• How to distill and discern why they feel stuck
• Scripts for open-ended questions that foster agency and self-discovery
• A framework for building a plan focused on securing the small wins first
• Tools to build and sustain momentum–and when to check in
• Why the victim mindset is so destructive and how to set boundaries to protect yourself

SPEAKER SCHOOL – Are you someone who struggles with social anxiety? How about pitching more effectively in meetings? Maybe you’re already on a speaker circuit but looking to sharpen your next message? Speaker School is built for you.

This two-day immersive workshop isn’t just another public speaking course. It’s a live training experience where you’ll get real reps and detailed feedback in a supportive environment with like-minded peers who have the same goal as you - to take a massive step forward.

Best of all, you’ll leave with proven tools and strategies to continue improving long after the event, so you’re not just better for a weekend, but for years to come.

📢 Last Call! Our next Speaker School is April 26-27, with another one on October 11-12. Email [e-mail] with the phrase "I listen" to get 10% off the date of your choice!

Don’t put this off any longer. Lock in your spot NOW!

READING LIST – Ever wonder what books we recommend on topics like leadership, communication, psychology, and beyond? Check out our curated reading list, which we get asked about just as much as today’s topic! Visit artofcoaching.com/readinglist to dive in and find your next great read. 

Come check out The Apprenticeship – Join us for a hands-on workshop designed to enhance your leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills: Learn more here.

Book Brett as a speaker  – Bring Brett to your organization for a powerful, customized keynote or in-service training: Request him here.

One-on-one mentoring – Work directly with our team to receive personalized coaching and actionable advice tailored to your goals: Apply here.

Referenced & Related Episodes:

E362: How To Quit Being a People Pleaser

E259: Understanding and Overcoming Perfectionism

E344: Tips For “Balancing” Work and Family