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Writer's pictureShel Dammann

The Boiling Pot: Why Change Feels Impossible (And How to Turn Down the Heat

Updated: Nov 22



Have you ever felt exhausted by how often you think about a particular problem in your life? Maybe it’s an emotional struggle, like trying to keep your temper in check. You work so hard to "keep the lid on," but eventually, the pressure builds, and you explode.



It’s like trying to control a boiling pot of water. The lid keeps rattling, the steam keeps building, and instead of turning off the heat, we hold the lid down tighter, hoping for peace. But peace doesn’t come from force—it comes from addressing the source of the heat.


Why Change Feels So Hard


Change feels impossible sometimes because what’s going on isn’t really what’s going on. The boiling pot is just a symptom of a deeper issue.


Here’s why:

1. We focus on the surface problem, not the root cause.

That boiling pot? It’s a reaction to a deeper "stove" of unresolved emotions, unmet needs, or beliefs we haven’t challenged.


2. We try to fight the symptoms instead of turning off the heat.

Suppressing your anger or frustration might work temporarily, but it doesn’t address why those emotions are boiling over in the first place.


3. We underestimate the power of small, consistent changes.

Turning down the heat is simple, but it takes patience. We often want quick fixes, so we resist the gradual work that true change requires.


Turning Down the Heat: Steps Toward Real Change


1. Identify the Heat Source

Ask yourself:

- What’s beneath my frustration? Is it stress, unmet needs, or a belief that’s no longer serving me?

- What patterns keep this problem recurring in my life?


Often, our reactions stem from hidden fears, unresolved pain, or unrealistic expectations.


2. Challenge Your Beliefs

Are you holding onto beliefs that fuel the fire?

- “I need to do everything perfectly.”

- “If I don’t control this, everything will fall apart.”

- “Other people are the problem.”


Try reframing these beliefs with something more empowering:

- “Progress, not perfection, is my goal.”

- “I can’t control everything, but I can control my response.”

- “I have the power to change my perspective.”


3. Create a Safe Outlet for Pressure

Instead of forcing yourself to keep the lid on, find ways to release the pressure safely:

- Journaling: Write down your thoughts without judgment.

- Movement: Go for a walk, hit a punching bag, or dance.

- Conversation: Talk to a trusted friend, coach, or therapist.


4. Practice Emotional Awareness

Learn to recognize the signs when your "pot" is heating up.

- Are your shoulders tense?

- Is your jaw clenched?

- Are your thoughts racing?


When you notice these signs, take a pause:

- Breathe deeply for 30 seconds.

- Step away from the situation if you can.

- Ask yourself, “What am I really feeling right now?”


5. Turn the Stove Off

Sometimes, we keep the heat on because we’re afraid to let go of control. Practice surrendering:

- Let go of perfectionism.

- Delegate tasks or responsibilities.

- Accept that it’s okay to feel uncomfortable—it’s part of growth.


Final Thoughts: The Boiling Pot Isn’t the Enemy


The boiling pot isn’t the problem—it’s your body and mind’s way of signaling that something needs attention. When you stop fighting the symptoms and start addressing the source, you’ll find that change becomes less overwhelming and more manageable.


You have the power to turn down the heat. Start small, stay consistent, and give yourself grace as you grow.



What’s one area in your life where you’re feeling the heat? Let’s talk about it—I’d love to help you uncover ways to turn down the stove and find lasting peace.

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