I often hear people say they are at the end of their rope. If you’re feeling that way, here are some important assessment questions to ask yourself. I encourage you to work slowly through these. Reflect on them, not only with your mind, but also your feelings and spirit. Write your responses in a journal.

1. What is the other end of this rope tied to?
2. Where is this rope supposed to be taking me?
3. Is it tied to the right things, the right values?
4. Am I sure I’m at the end of my rope or do I just feel that way?
5. Is it possible there’s still more rope beneath me, but I’m too afraid to look down?
6. Why do I feel I’m at the end of my rope?
7. Am I losing my grip because I’ve been working so hard at climbing with my own power? (See my post on using all five fingers to hold on!)
8. Who told me I’m supposed to climb this rope anyway?
9. Is it possible this rope-climbing activity is a waste of time?
10. Do I really feel safer holding onto this rope? Why or why not?
11. Is there something better in life than rope-climbing?
12. Would I want to die, still clutching this rope?
13. What would happen if I let go of the rope I’m clinging to?
14. Who would catch me if I let go?
15. In my quiet moments, do I ever hear an encouraging voice saying, “Let go. Come to me you who are tired of climbing. I will catch you and hold you and give you rest”?
16. Do I trust this one who would catch me?
17. What would life be like if I were not holding onto this rope?
18. Do I trust my death grip on this rope more than the one who will catch me if I let go?
19. Who in my life will help me let go and encourage me in my catcher?
20. What will it take to let go, to release this and throw my hands up in surrender?

What questions do you get “hung up” on? I encourage you to use #19 to talk to someone you trust–a good friend, a counselor, a clergy member, or a doctor, for instance. Talk through your responses to these questions. And don’t forget: your goal is to let go of it!