15 Signs You’re Experiencing A Life Crisis (And How To Survive It)

We all go through times of transition and stress, both personally and professionally. They’re a part of life that we can typically move through with time and support. But when the bad times don’t seem to end and you’re continually filled with doubt or disappointment, you may be experiencing a life crisis.

A life crisis can feel like an insurmountable obstacle, but with the right strategies in place, you can emerge as an even stronger and better version of yourself. We asked the members of Forbes Coaches Council to share how you can recognize if you’re having a life crisis—and how you can navigate this phase successfully.

1. Your Current Path Is Weighing Heavily On You

Be with the feeling. If what has been is no longer fulfilling or is weighing heavily on you, find its roots in the heart, gut or head. If heart, you may have lost passion or stopped living your values. If gut, you may no longer be connected to your core identity. If head, you may no longer be challenged intellectually or creatively. Once you know the root, construct a path to navigate past it. – Brian Gorman, TransformingLives.Coach

2. You’ve Lost Your Mojo

Each day feels the same, work feels mundane, you don’t attend meetings, you assume what others are going to say, you assume no one cares about what you have to say and/or you say nothing will change—these are the whisperings for your growth and development. Seek challenges, stretch your brain, have fun and/or develop your weaknesses. Take action to grow, to learn, to do and to be in the unknown. – Bobbie Goheen, Synthesis Management Group

3. You’re Unhappy And Don’t Know Why

Do you find yourself wondering, “What am I doing? Why can’t I be happy or thankful like other people?” A midlife crisis often looms when we are unable to find happiness or joy in the things that used to please us. One way to address the issue is by first asking ourselves, “What do I need right now?” It is in giving ourselves what we need that we get to feel like we are doing the right thing. – Anne Beaulieu, Walking Inside Resources Inc.

4. You’re Facing Insecurity And Self-Doubt

Quarter-life, middle-age or empty-nest crisis—you name it! It is the time of insecurity, doubt and disappointment with many aspects of our lives. It begins with the urge to question. Dare to respond and don’t shut out your feelings. Journaling about this experience is a fast track to healing and building awareness. Start with just one question a day. Be brave to look for many possible solutions. – Inga Bielińska, Inga Bielinska Coaching Consulting Mentoring

5. You’re Ignoring Your Highest Priorities

We all have activities that rank high on our list—fitness, sleep, hitting deadlines, spending time with a trusted friend. When you “check your priorities,” are you meeting any of them to your regular standards? If not, there’s usually a reason why. Maybe it’s a life crisis, and maybe it’s just a bit of a slump. Check your priorities and then ask a trusted friend for their input and perspective. – John Hittler, Evoking Genius

6. People Say You’re Not Acting Like Yourself

Life crises often come from severe stress. Recognize it by knowing if your behaviors aren’t typical (like if you’re hearing “you’re not yourself” from others). People react to stress differently. Typical behavior for someone else might be extremely atypical for you. Pay attention to your patterns of behavior and recognize it’s only a phase. Then take whatever self-care measures work for you. – Sherrie Haynie, CPP, Inc.

7. Your Mind Feels Confused Or Cluttered

As busy professionals, it is easy to dismiss forgetfulness or confusion as a result of your busy schedule, but if this is happening on a more regular basis, this could be a sign of a life crisis. If you notice this happening to you, take some time to address the real issues that are weighing heavy on your mind and seek some help (confidant, coach, therapist) if necessary. – Tameika Devine, The Possibilities Institute

8. You No Longer Know What You Want In Life

You know you are in a crisis when you don’t know what you want in life. You may feel stuck in a job you hate or your job no longer fulfills you. You may even feel like selling all of your belongings and moving to another state or country. Take some time to evaluate and redefine your personal or professional goals. Sometimes what success meant to you at 20 may change by the time you’re mid-career. – Katrina Brittingham, VentureReady LLC

9. You’re Feeling Weak And Alone

Surround yourself with allies, mentors and peers who you trust, believe in you and can challenge you. The weaker we feel the more important it is to surround ourselves with others who will positively ignite us. You don’t have to be clingy, but you can value their support by being vulnerable. And if you do not have these people around you, prioritize finding them. It may even help you heal faster. – Monica Kang, InnovatorsBox

10. You’re Feeling Drained In All Areas Of Your Life

Change is constant and helps us grow. Crises often impede growth. The difference between a life crisis and a normal life change is how long and how much. Long-lasting challenges that drain your energy, your relationships or your bank account can push you into crisis mode. Pay close attention to the duration and impact of life’s challenges so you can change directions before you reach a cliff. – Lillian Gregory, The Institute for Human and Leadership Excellence

11. You’re Dealing With Anxiety

Anxiety is a big indicator of a crisis. If you’re feeling anxious to the point where it’s negatively affecting your well-being, it’s time to acknowledge the underlying issue. Break the issue down, figure out what the root of it is, then make a step-by-step plan to get over the hump. It’s also helpful to bring in a friend or relative to maintain clarity as you work through the crisis. – Andy Bailey, Petra Coach

12. You’re Experiencing Low Energy

If you notice you’re drained, lost, stuck and/or overwhelmed, you may be going through a life crisis. You’ll notice that your energy level—physically, mentally and emotionally—isn’t the same as it usually is for you. The first step is to take time to rest and recover. Nothing can be solved if you remain in the same state of being. After you take some time to rest, next you need to reflect. – Rosie Guagliardo, InnerBrilliance Coaching

13. You’re Indecisive About Everything

Indecision about everything is a telltale sign you are in a life crisis. If you’re having difficulty navigating even the mundane tasks and feeling overwhelmed, it’s time to take a break and take yourself off the hamster wheel. Just breathe, take some long walks, get away from your normal daily routine and contemplate. Refresh, renew, release and begin again when mind, body and soul are ready. – Debbie Ince, Executive Talent Finders, Inc

14. You’re Increasingly Distracted And Not Making Progress

You’re distracted and not getting traction. You’re struggling with spiritual (purpose), emotional, mental and/or physical engagement. The best leaders and performers have challenges. Notice it, acknowledge it, be intentional to refuel. This takes committed time, energy and effort to identify. Don’t ignore it. The book The Power of Full Engagement provides lots of support. – Christy Geiger MCC, CPCC, Synergy Strategies Coaching & Training

15. You Feel Stuck And Overwhelmed

When we feel stuck or overwhelmed, a major life event could be taking place. Losing our job, bankruptcy, bereavement, health issues, etc. can be contained if we know our core values and have clear behaviors to reconnect with them. Core values are our anchor to aligning with our true selves. Know them, have specific behaviors that support them, and have people around who will hold you accountable. – Frances McIntosh, Intentional Coaching LLC