When a workflow
is blocked.

A blocked workflow is a state to inspect, not a verdict about your ability to continue.

1. State the observable block

Write what happens, what you expected, and the last known good state. Keep facts separate from the explanation you currently favor.

2. Name the constraint

Ask whether the block comes from missing access, information, authority, capacity, compatibility, or a decision that belongs to someone else.

3. Find a reversible probe

Choose the smallest safe action that would produce new evidence. Preserve current state, set a stopping condition, and avoid repeating a failed approach without a reason it should behave differently.

4. Escalate with evidence

If another person or system must help, share the observed behavior, relevant context, attempts already made, and the decision you need. Keep secrets and private data out of the request.

5. Decide whether reflection fits

If the facts are available but no obvious next step feels satisfactory, outside reflection may help reveal an assumption. If evidence, authorization, or specialist judgment is missing, obtain that instead.