18 Things That Keep Purpose-Driven Women Stuck

Women have an incredible ability to make a difference in the world. Whether it’s through raising children, being a supportive sister, doing their best at work, leading in business or community, or using their gifts to help others, the ways women step into their purpose can change lives—and even whole communities. Even the small things we do with love and intention bring God’s kingdom here on earth.

Living out your calling takes focus, discipline, and trust in God. Jesus showed us this when He said He was “about His Father’s business” (Luke 2:49). Stepping into what God made you for means putting Him first, staying faithful, and moving forward even when it’s not easy. But there are things that can hold us back—fear, doubt, distractions, and guilt—that make it hard to walk boldly in our purpose.

Spiritual Attacks on Your Calling

Stepping into your God-given purpose often draws resistance—not from people alone, but from the spiritual forces that don’t want you to rise. These attacks can show up as fear, doubt, guilt, distraction, or even the feeling that your gifts don’t matter. The enemy knows that when you fully walk in your calling, God’s kingdom advances through your life.

Sometimes the attacks are subtle, like whispers of insecurity, old wounds resurfacing, or the pressure to please everyone else. Other times, they hit harder, making you feel overwhelmed, unworthy, or stuck. But God equips you to overcome every obstacle. Through prayer, relying on His Word, and staying close to Him, you can recognize these attacks, resist them, and move forward boldly in the purpose He designed for you.

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” – Ephesians 6:12

18 Things That Keep Purpose-Driven Women Stuck

1. Fear of what others think makes her shrink and silence her voice.

2. Comparing herself to others steals her joy and blinds her to her gifts.

3. Believing she’s not enough fills her with doubt and holds her back.

4. Defining worth by roles or titles makes fulfillment feel out of reach.

5. Disconnecting from God leaves her empty and aimless.

6. Waiting for the “perfect time” robs her of growth and opportunities.

7. Carrying past wounds traps her in fear and old pain.

8. People-pleasing over her calling drains her and clouds her focus.

9. Not knowing her gifts causes frustration and wasted potential.

10. Distrusting her intuition leads to hesitation and missed chances.

11. Settling for less than God’s best dims her impact and stifles growth.

12. Living without vision scatters her energy and purpose.

13. Lacking discipline to act turns dreams into regret.

14. Worry and Stress Hinders Trust In God’s promises which keeps her from stepping boldly in faith.

15. Platonic or romantic relationships that misalign with her purpose can distract or derail her calling.

16. Focusing on vain & worldly pursuits instead of intimacy with God and harvesting souls wastes time and energy.

17. Neglecting prayer keeps her from shifting atmospheres and giving God control over her life.

18. False responsibility or guilt keeps her carrying burdens that aren’t hers, draining her focus and freedom.

19. Refusing to ask for help even though she’s overwhelmed and can’t do it alone.

Conclusion

Every woman has a God-given purpose, whether it shows up in parenting, leadership, work, ministry, or small daily acts of service. Recognizing the obstacles that hold you back is the first step toward walking boldly in your calling. By staying connected to God, trusting His promises, and embracing your unique gifts, you can multiply your impact, influence your world, and fulfill the life you were created for.

🌸 Ready to step fully into your purpose? Book a 1:1 empowerment coaching session today and start walking in the life God designed for you.