TL;DR
Experiencing sadness, self-doubt, and a lack of motivation is a part of being human. We can support ourselves to feel better, by learning how to navigate the ebb and flow of our energy and emotions.
Do you ever find yourself feeling a bit down or depleted?
Experiencing sadness, self-doubt, and a lack of motivation is a part of being human. We can support ourselves to feel better, by learning how to navigate the ebb and flow of our energy and emotions.
Helpful reminders for tough days:
Try taking a brief self-compassion break
This is where you turn your care and attention inwards, and offer yourself kindness and encouragement. Self-Compassion researcher and advocate Kristin Neff offers some simple phrases below to start practising:
“This is a moment of suffering.
Suffering is part of life.
May I be kind to myself in this moment.
May I give myself the compassion I need.”
Hands on heart - Photo by Giulia Bertelli on Unsplash
Accomplish smaller goals that day
Be realistic about the capacity you DO have, and focus on creating micro momentum and small wins. Leave demanding tasks for when you have more to give.
Play with perspectives
Don’t trust how you see yourself or the world when you’re in a blue mood. Like looking out at the world through a dirty window… everything appears grimy and dark. Experiment with seeing your situation through a more hopeful lens. Try asking yourself:
“What’s another way I could see this?”
Practise opposite action to lift your energy and mood
To break the cycle of low mood and motivation, we actually need to think and act greater than we feel.
We know from much research that low mood is sustained by isolation, rumination and avoidance of pleasurable activities. Approaching what we want to avoid, is the way through.
Despite how you're feeling, you could commit to:
- Call or message a friend.
- Take a walk / do a workout.
- Change your environment and work from the office/cafe instead of sitting at home
Running up steps - Photo by Bruno Nascimento on Unsplash
Boosting and sustaining your wellbeing is a lifelong process. It’s a journey that requires patience and persistence, and you don’t need to walk the path alone.
Connect with a MindFi coach or counselor to help guide and support you!
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Written by Rebecca Jarvis (Certified Life Coach)
If you’d like to connect with Rebecca, click on the button or scan the QR code below.
Rebecca Jarvis
Certified Life Coach
If this resonated, Rebecca can help you go deeper. Book a session.
Rebecca Jarvis is a certified life coach who supports people in navigating low mood and sustaining their wellbeing by approaching, rather than avoiding, what matters most.
Specializations
This article is educational and not a substitute for medical or mental health diagnosis or treatment. If you need personal care guidance, consult a licensed professional.
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