Why Some People Stay Stuck: The Intersection of Motivation, Dreams, and Opportunity

I recently came across this post that sparked my curiosity: 'A millionaire won’t judge you for starting a business. A bodybuilder won’t judge you for working out.' It speaks to a simple truth—people working toward their goals tend to support others on a similar path. More often than not, judgment comes from those who feel stuck in life. This made me pause and ask: Why do some people get stuck, while others thrive?

As a teacher, we’re trained to pay close attention to the learner who disrupts the class. Over the years, I’ve learned that disruptive behaviour usually signals something deeper—like discomfort or unmet needs in their environment. When I sit down with such a student, I often discover they’re carrying some kind of hurt. Once they feel heard and reassured, the disruptive behaviour fades.

That same morning, after reading the quote on social media, it sparked more questions in my mind: Is it a lack of motivation, unclear dreams, or missing resources that causes people to get stuck? And is there something those of us who’ve found success can do to help others find their way?

The Role of Motivation

Motivation is often seen as the driving force behind success. But not everyone has the privilege of easy access to it. Some people face overwhelming external challenges—difficult environments, personal struggles, or mental health issues—that drain their motivation before it can even take hold. Comfort zones are another major obstacle. When the fear of failure feels greater than the potential reward, inaction often becomes the default.

Do They Have Dreams?

It’s not always a lack of ambition that holds people back. Some have never been encouraged to dream big. Others may have chased their dreams, only to give up after too many setbacks and disappointments. Society often pushes a “safe” path, where creativity and risk-taking can feel impractical. Many people had dreams once, but they lost faith in them after the harsh realities of life took their toll.

Lack of Guidance and Resources

This is where mentorship and support come in. Having a strong role model, along with access to critical resources—like financial support or educational opportunities—can make all the difference. Without these, moving forward feels almost impossible. A lack of guidance can mean that dreams remain just that—dreams—never fully realized.

The Culture of Criticism

So why do people who feel stuck often judge others? In many cases, judgment is a defense mechanism. It’s easier to criticize others than to reflect on one’s own fears and failures. Those afraid to take risks may project their insecurities onto others, using criticism as a way to avoid confronting their own stagnation.

How the Accomplished Can Help

This is where those of us who have found success can make an impact. We have the opportunity, and perhaps even the responsibility, to help rekindle the spark in those who feel lost. Here’s how:

Mentorship and Guidance: Sometimes, all it takes is someone believing in you to reignite your sense of purpose. As accomplished individuals, we can share our experiences, offer advice, and serve as role models for those who may feel stuck. By showing others that setbacks are part of the journey and not the end of it, we can help them rediscover their dreams.

Encouragement to Dream Again: We can create spaces where people feel safe to dream again. Encouraging someone to pursue their passions, no matter how far-fetched they may seem, can breathe life back into forgotten aspirations. Our stories of overcoming obstacles can serve as a reminder that dreams are worth fighting for.

Providing Resources: Not everyone has access to the same resources, whether financial, educational, or emotional. Where possible, we can help bridge those gaps by providing opportunities or connecting people to the resources they need. It could be as simple as offering a scholarship, introducing them to a valuable contact, or helping them build the skills necessary to succeed.

Cultivating Empathy, Not Criticism: Instead of joining in the culture of criticism, we can lead by example. When we meet people who seem stuck, we can choose empathy over judgment. Understanding that their stagnation often comes from fear or lack of support, we can offer a listening ear and gentle guidance to help them take the first steps out of their comfort zone.

Shifting the Narrative

Rather than focusing on where people fall short, we should seek to understand the barriers that hold them back. By fostering self-reflection, offering mentorship, and providing access to the resources they need, we can help more people move toward their dreams. After all, when we lift others up, we contribute not only to their success but to the world as a whole. We have the power to rekindle lost motivation, reawaken forgotten dreams, and help those who feel stuck find their way forward. In doing so, we not only help others grow—we continue to grow ourselves.

I’d love to hear your thoughts—what do you think keeps people stuck, and how can we help each other move forward? Let’s start a conversation!