Do You Feel Trapped? How to Break Out

"Maybe it's a job you hate or that no longer gives you satisfaction. Or an intimate relationship where the emotional connection has long since frayed, and you're now living parallel lives. Or, perhaps a friendship that was once vital but has now been downgraded to an acquaintance at best, or one that's unbalanced, where only your periodic outreach keeps it alive."

"It's also easy to feel anxious, always walking on eggshells, keeping up a front, fearful of being discovered. If you watch those YouTube videos where 80-year-olds reflect on their lives and share their lessons, they always focus on the same themes-that life is short, don't waste the time you have; be bold, take risks, don't settle, the "wish-I-had-eaten-more-ice-cream-and-less-beans" philosophy. These wise ones say the key to a fulfilling life is not letting fear hold you back."

"It's about money: You need to ride out the job for a few more years to get retirement; you can't financially afford to leave your relationship. Or, you have children, and worry about disrupting their lives. Or, you feel indebted to your friend for her past help. What are you afraid will happen if you act? You'll ruin your pension; your partner will take you to court, leading to a messy legal fight over money or custody, or your children will suffer greatly."

Feeling trapped in a job or relationship often leads to depression and anxiety, creating a sense of being stuck. Remaining in place usually solves or avoids underlying problems such as financial needs, caregiving responsibilities, legal worries, or feelings of indebtedness. Common fears include jeopardizing pensions, custody battles, financial ruin, or harm to children. Reflections on life emphasize brevity, boldness, and not letting fear dictate choices. The practical route out is to unravel and examine fears, gather clear information and external support, and take decisive steps. When decisive action feels overwhelming, build courage and capability through smaller, manageable risks.

Read at Psychology Today