3 Ways to Stay Motivated When Work Feels Like a Drag

Hey there,

We’ve all had those days when work feels like a slog. The motivation just isn’t there, and even the simplest tasks feel insurmountable. It’s normal—but it’s also fixable.

Here are three of my favorite strategies to break through that slump and reignite your spark:

1. Take a "Moonshot Day"

Sometimes, when frustration peaks, it’s time to dream big. Block out a few hours and apply for 100 moonshot jobs—the dream roles you stumble upon online but think, “I’ll never get that.”

Here’s the beauty of this exercise:

• If no one responds, you get a wake-up call to stop dreaming and focus on what’s in front of you.
• If someone does respond? Well, you might just change your life.

Even if neither happens, the process is an act of ambition and a reminder that you can aim high. You’ll come back to your current work with fresh energy and perspective.

2. Identify the Motivation Sink—and Own It

When motivation dries up, ask yourself: What’s draining my energy?

• Is it the never-ending meetings?
• Poor sleep or nutrition?
• Or maybe unresolved work frustrations?

It’s no one else’s job to motivate you. Take responsibility for identifying the problem and start fixing it—one small step at a time. The ownership itself is empowering and can shift your entire mindset.

3. Audit Your Inputs: Calendar and Belly

Garbage in, garbage out. Period.

Here’s a simple truth:

• Overloaded calendars lead to burnout.
• Poor nutrition saps energy and focus.

Start saying no to unnecessary commitments, and yes to better meals and movement. Oh, and put your phone down for a while. Doom-scrolling never fueled a great workday. Motivation isn’t something you wait for—it’s something you create. Whether it’s shooting your shot at moonshot jobs, taking responsibility for your energy drains, or auditing what you’re putting in your body and schedule, you have the power to turn things around. Stop scrolling and start living. Your motivation is waiting for you to take the first step.

P.S. Have a tip or strategy that works for you? Hit reply and let me know—I’d love to share your wisdom in an upcoming Hart Beat!