Lack of Motivation: How to Productively Work Through Times When You Feel Unmotivated

“Note to self: You’ve got to do this for YOU. This is for you. This isn’t about anybody. Live for you. Honor you. Never lose sight of that.” 

At one point or another, we all find ourselves in an unmotivated slump where we don’t have the energy or inspiration to be productive or accomplish our goals.

A lot of times, we end up aimlessly passing the time by, waiting for things to change, or waiting to feel better.

But, when we sit around waiting we end up missing out on so many possibilities in our lives. Possibilities to create, learn, and grow.

If you’re currently in a slump and feeling a total lack of motivation in your life, then this article is for you.

Here are 7 ways you can productively work through times when you’re feeling unmotivated: 

1.) Sign out of social media

When lack of motivation has its grip on you, it’s best to stay as far away from social media as you can.

Why? Because it’s all too easy to get sucked into social media updates and spend hours upon hours aimlessly scrolling through pictures, status updates, and other things that offer no value or inspiration to your life.

What’s more — social media is addictive, and overuse of it has been linked to depression, anxiety, and feeling socially isolated.

Do yourself a favor and sign out of your social media accounts whenever you’re struggling to find motivation in your life. Doing so will enable you to disconnect from the outside world, and refocus on yourself. Plus you won’t waste any more time aimlessly scrolling through your social feeds, or comparing your life with the lives you see on social.

2.) Meditate for 10 minutes

Lack of motivation is often accompanied by feelings of low energy. That’s why so many people who feel unmotivated end up doing things like binge-watching TV and aimlessly scrolling through social media — it just feels easier!

Luckily, there’s an even easier solution to combat your lack of motivation, and it doesn’t require you to leave your house or even get out of bed!

So what is this amazingly convenient antidote? Meditation!

When used regularly, meditation is proven to reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. What’s more — it can also help you relax, gain clarity in your life, and feel happier and more energized.

Here’s a list of free online meditations you can listen to directly from your phone or computer whenever you’re feeling unmotivated, or looking for a boost in energy!

3.) Read an inspiring book

Books are transformational — not only do they allow us to escape our current reality and immerse ourselves into a different thought-based world, but they also teach us and inspire us.

Whenever you’re feeling unmotivated, grab a book you’ve been meaning to read or continue reading one you’ve already started.

By reading, you’ll be nourishing your mind with new thoughts and ideas, and will likely find inspiration as well!

 

4.) Free write for a few minutes

Lack of motivation often stems from feeling uncertain and overwhelmed by life. That’s why free writing is a therapeutic and powerful exercise.

Not only will free writing help you release any pent up emotions that may be draining your energy, but it will also stimulate your brain to feel more inspired.

To begin, grab your favorite journal or any notebook you have lying around your house and start writing. Don’t try to control your thoughts, instead, let them flow out freely.

There’s no time limit for this exercise — just do it until you feel done!

5.) Make a gratitude list

Gratitude is one of the best antidotes to lack of motivation because it shifts your point of attraction from a negative, detached state of being to a positive and appreciative state of being.

The result?

You attract more things in your life to be thankful for — and this makes a HUGE difference in the inspiration and motivation you’ll feel, especially during this period.

Take a few minutes, and either say or write down 3 things you’re thankful for. There’s no right or wrong way to do this as long as you’re sincere and truly appreciative of the things you’re listing.

6.) Take a walk outside

When we’re stuck in an unmotivated slump, we end up doing the same thing day after day with little to no change to our routine. This predictable cycle of living can lead to unhappiness, depression, and other negative effects.

That’s why it’s important you change your routine by taking a walk outside. You don’t need to have an agenda, nor do you need to be outside for a specific amount of time. Instead, just by going outside and walking around you’ll stimulate your senses and change up your routine.

This small change will leave you feeling refreshed, and bring clarity and inspiration to your life as well.

7.) Start where you are

Last but not least — start where you are!

Don’t worry about where you were, or where you think you need to be in life – instead, savor this moment right now because this is the only moment you have the opportunity to unstuck yourself!

Do one thing right now that will help you feel inspired, and then when you finish that thing…do another.

Each small change, followed by another small change, will add up to a total life overhaul. And before you know it you’ll have your motivation back!

Don’t forget to sign up below and access your free 7-day Mindset Coaching journal so you can let go of your lack of motivation!

Xx,

Antasha

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About Antasha Durbin: Antasha is a spiritual writer, life-long student of the universe, and psychic tarot card reader. Her website, cajspirituality.com, is dedicated to casualizing the spiritual experience and making it attainable for anyone, anywhere, anytime. Follow her for free, easy-to-digest and highly actionable advice on spirituality, mindfulness and empowered living.