We all know the danger of object fixation: focus on something you don't want to hit and you'll likely hit it. Much better to focus on where you want to go, whether it's clear air along a ridge or your intended landing spot. On Sunday I saw what may have been another form of fixation worth discussing: LZ fixation.
When you find yourself parked and unable to make progress into the wind, consider flying in another direction. If flying downwind doesn't take you into hazards (e.g., rotor, obstacles), then look that way first because flying downwind allows you to cover much more ground with your remaining altitude than flying in any other direction. As result, you will have many more landing options and opportunities to find lift to get you back in the game.
On Sunday I watched two pilots land in rather inhospitable terrain in high winds. Seems they were both focused on returning to the towing paddock even though it was clear that they would be unable to penetrate the headwind to get there. Later, when presented with similar conditions, I turned and ran downwind with the hope of finding more lift and the knowledge that I could easily make it to some large, wide-open, fallow farm fields to allow for lots of under/over-shoot on what I assumed would be a high-wind landing.
So, when you're not making progress against the wind, have a look around and consider your options given your remaining altitude.