Feeling overwhelmed?

Reignite Your Spark: Be Kind to Yourself

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Having one of those days/weeks where your spark at work just isn’t there? Maybe it’s been a string of monotonous days, you're feeling overwhelmed, or personal issues are creeping into your professional life. One day you feel a bit low on motivation, and the next, you’re slumped over your keyboard, clutching your third coffee, wondering what to do next. Sound familiar? We've all been there.

The key is not to stay stuck. You need a strategy to break free from this slump—one that doesn’t involve downing yet more caffeine!

How Do We Break This Cycle and Get Our Mojo Back?

First things first, take a step back. It’s so easy to get overwhelmed and reactive when things aren’t going well at work. Did you know that about 40% of workers find that scheduled breaks boost their productivity? Whether it’s meditation, exercise, or simply shaking up your daily routine, giving yourself some space can sharpen your focus and strengthen your resilience. It's all about clearing your head and coming back with a fresh perspective.

My Personal Tip: Clean Your Desk

When I feel overwhelmed or discouraged, I turn to a simple yet effective strategy—I clean my desk. It might seem like a small thing, but tidying up can bring a remarkable sense of order and control. Clearing the clutter not only refreshes my workspace but also clears my mind, giving me a fresh start and renewed energy to tackle tasks.

The key is to immerse yourself in the process. Focus solely on the act of cleaning and organising. If it helps, set a timer. Start by getting rid of any junk, then organise the items you use regularly. Making this a habit can be challenging, but it’s well worth the effort. Good luck!

Here’s some further tips:

1/ Step Back to Move Forward

Investing time in self-care and planning can lead to better performance and higher productivity, especially when you’re feeling unmotivated or stuck in a rut. Abraham Lincoln said it well: “Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.”

2/ Be Kind to Yourself

Self-compassion is another biggie. It’s tough to stay motivated if you’re constantly hard on yourself. Interestingly, about 85% of people are more empathetic towards others than they are towards themselves. By treating yourself with the same kindness, you can change how you engage with work. This empathy extends to your colleagues as well. Strengthening those relationships can make your work experience more meaningful and fulfilling, reigniting that spark of motivation toward your own goals.

3/ Small Actions, Big Impact

Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of small actions. Completing even the simplest tasks can lift your spirits and boost your confidence to take on bigger challenges. A staggering 70% of professionals report feeling more accomplished when they check off small tasks. It’s about taking those initial steps to overcome inertia, and momentum will build from there. Celebrate each small achievement, and you’ll be likely to achieve even more!

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So, if you’re feeling a lack of motivation, don’t be discouraged. Dips in drive are normal and manageable. Try these tips, and you’ll navigate these phases better, coming out more engaged and productive. Let’s take these insights and start moving towards a more motivated and fulfilling work life.

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These work much better when we share stories: Have you found effective ways to overcome a slump at work? Share your experiences and tips in the comments, I’d love to hear from you!

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