We all go through phases of feeling unmotivated and in a slump. Even the most energetic and positive people have these moments and it can often be hard to know what’s caused them in the first place. For me, this makes it hard to know how I can help myself, and is probably even more frustrating for my partner who doesn’t know what to do in these situations! In fact, 65% of people in a slump get frustrated because they don’t know how to get out of it!
I don’t necessarily feel sad or happy, it’s just a feeling of vacant ‘nothingness’ with a dash of frustration and a big scoop of unproductivity.
Having gone through multiple slumps, I’ve slowly worked out what it is that helps me get out of these phases and back on the road to positivity. Below are my favourite activities that help me when I’m feeling a little lost and uninterested in life!
1. Getting into nature
There’s nothing more calming to me than going for a walk or run amongst some trees. I’m lucky to have some forests nearby which I like to go to and help me feel grounded. Just the smell of the woods and sound of the wind rustling in the trees make me feel as if I’m a million miles away from civilisation and allow me a chance to think on a deeper level.
Tip: Try and do this activity without listening to music or a podcast. I’ve found that when I do this, my thoughts become clearer and it gives my brain a chance to wander.
2. Setting myself tiny goals
If I’m in a slump it’s hard for me to find the power to tackle a big task (unless it’s super important and I have no choice)! Instead, I write myself three smaller goals for the day instead – manageable, bitesize tasks that even the most unmotivated person could do. For example:
- Brush my teeth
- Water my plants
- Use a face mask
I like using a to-do list as it helps me feel more productive when I tick things off! By completing my mini-goals, not only do I feel more accomplished, but I gives me energy to tackle harder items on my list!
Join the Jellyhead Club for exclusive offers and updates!
3. Writing things down
I’m a big advocate for writing things down on paper as it helps your brain focus and process things better. If I’m in a bit of a slump, I find writing a few sentences in my journal can help give me a bit of perspective.
Usually, I ramble about how I’m feeling and what is going on in my life but the therapeutic benefits are unmatched. Not only do I feel lighter and more positive after doing so, but I often find a spur of motivation to get out of my slump as I know it’s my brain playing tricks on me.
Being in a slump can be fuelled by negative self-talk, and so by identifying these moments and addressing them using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) methods, I’m able to see my thoughts for what they really are – usually false and overdramatic!
4. Cooking my feelings
Another thing I love to do when I feel in a slump is to get my cooking apron on and start making something. Whether it be a recipe I’ve never tried or my indulgent chocolate brownies, I find cooking therapeutic and best of all there’s something to enjoy at the end!
5. Doing absolutely nothing!
Sometimes if I’m in a slump, the best thing I can do is not fight it! By remembering that it’s only temporary, I’m able to just take it for what it is.
Instead, I spend the time doing things that I don’t normally get to do such as practising self-care. Having a bubble bath or watching Netflix have their benefits too and if I know that everything will be fine in a short while, then I usually feel better.
It’s OK to take a break and recharge so don’t feel guilty for doing it for a short while.
Finding the motivation to take positive steps can be difficult if you’re in a slump, but with a bit of patience and perseverance you’ll soon find yourself back to the old you soon enough.
What do you like to do when you feel unmotivated? Comment below!
