Demotivation Sucks

What could you do more of?

This is me at the moment. By that I mean it doesn’t last very long, I pick up at the first sign of something that makes me smile. Which means if I glance to my left I will smile.

I smiled.

I’m generally a happy person but not having had the easiest life emotionally I’ve had an underlying ennui for years. That’s a French word I love because it isn’t just boredom, it’s a dimming of that vital spark that brings the world to life in full technicolor and surround sound.

It’s also a gentler more underlying feeling, not the dramatic “I’m soooo boorrred!” forehead hits desk, feeling. And so un-me. It fits about as well as sports gear.

But you know, writing something like this always helps. I try to inspire and uplift, which means it’s my duty now to find the positives! The end result of which is that I will feel better.

The positives

• It’s better to confront how you feel than pretend you’re doing better than you are. The first is pointless and exhausting, the second inspires action.
• Don’t feel afraid of feeling sad when you are, there’s a reason, work out what it is if it isn’t blindingly obvious. Where are you ruining your life for the sake of someone else, or through social pressure? We’re told we must work for a living, why does no one ever say “You must work at something you love for a living”? Think about it.
• Don’t feel stupid if your life isn’t what you want it to be, accept the past, move forward. You won’t be alone in those feelings. Modern programming is shocking.
• Find something that makes you feel better. Whatever it is, engage in it. Have you even noticed that when you feel low you may not put on your favourite music; grab a coffee and a book; go out for a walk when you know it helps; eat properly; you may drink too much. The antidote to those feelings is to do the things they prevent you doing.
• Gratitude is a useful tool. Think about the things you’re really grateful for. Even if it’s not a lot you can build on it.
• If you’re struggling think more widely about what you love Do you watch the moon for ages? Does a rainbow stop you in your tracks? Grandchildren? Pets? Friends? A particular comedian? Live music? Don’t get too caught up in what’s in front of you.
• In other words actively look for positives add if necessary create them. Only you can or will.

Just a few ideas there. But don’t forget…

Normal…

Is a bit up and down; sometimes very. If you accept that, you may find it easier to pick yourself back up. It’s when you get too caught up in the mess that you drown. Stick your nose out of the water, take a deep breath, push up, turn over and float on your back. Put on some soothing music or happy music, whatever suits. Either be at peace or dance until you’re enjoying it. Watch a comedy.

Small simple steps, big changes.

Deb xx