Lately I have been feeling off. I happens every year when Chicago’s winter hits (unofficially). The darkness at 4:30 p.m., the constant cloudiness, the frequent snow/ice/rain combine to kill my motivation and make me want to hibernate. I don’t have the luxury of sitting around and doing nothing, though, so I needed to find my inspiration again. I needed to pull myself out of this rut. I’ve compiled ideas for how to re-motivate yourself when you, too, are feeling uninspired. I’ve been practicing many of these myself in hopes of getting my drive back. For the most part I’ve been quite successful and I hope it can help others as well.
How to pull yourself out of a rut and find inspiration:
- Start your day off on a positive note. I have been meditating every morning, usually during my daily pumping session, with the help of the Headspace app. Incorporate meditation (or prayer or journaling) into your morning routine. Make it an essential step as you get ready for the day. If I miss this, I do it in the evening before bed to help with sleep.
- Exercise. While I am not back into my 4-5 workouts a week like I used to be, I am committing to at least one workout class a week for now. Even starting slowly like I am can have a big impact on your mood.
- Make sure you’re drinking enough water. Everything feels wrong with the world when you neglect such an essential staple from your daily consumption.
- Incorporate self-care into your daily routine. Find one way that you can take care of yourself every day, whether it’s the morning meditation, repainting your nails, scheduling an appointment you need, or taking a long bath.
- Attend an inspiring event, such as a book tour event, motivational speech or a charity event.
- Listen to motivational podcast or audiobook (or read a book). I am always inspired by reading about others’ personal development journeys.
- Treat yourself. I did this recently by buying postpartum clothes that make me feel more put together and confident.
- Make yourself a higher priority. Stop putting yourself last.
- Take note of your accomplishments. An example of this is making a list of things you have gotten done today or this week vs. only writing down things you need to do.
- Make gratitude lists (daily or weekly). Remind yourself what you have to be inspired by.
- Take a social media break or check out different channels that inspire rather than cause feelings of lack.
- Declutter your home and simplify. Excess causes me anxiety, as do messes.
- Volunteer for a cause you care about. I used to make this a monthly activity, and I admit I haven’t been doing it lately. It’s a goal for the upcoming months to volunteer.
- Network with people in your field or interest. Their excitement and passion can rub off on you.
- Redecorate a space in your home, whether it’s the holidays or just giving it a refresh.
I hope any of these ideas can help you find your inspiration again. Have you ever felt like you were in a rut?
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