It’s no secret that politics in the U.S. and the ongoing upheaval in the world are weighing on people, particularly women.
While it can be tough to stay inspired at work in the best of times, the mental, emotional, financial, health, family and social issues we’re dealing with now can make it that much harder.
And while you might be thriving professionally, you might still have trouble focusing, being productive and feeling fulfilled.
Motivation can never be forced, only encouraged. Moving through challenges while tending to our professional lives requires us to work with a range of emotions, connect for support, dig deep into our resilience and make the best decisions we can.
Those decisions are different for everyone. Some pour themselves into work as a way to channel their energy and others step back. Most of us need to do both.
Here are some ideas to help you keep going at work, in good times and bad.
Focus on inspiration
Being passionate about work is an integral part of my coaching and my philosophy. If you love what you do, it makes it that much easier to stay inspired.
But even for those who are blessed to do work they adore (including me), inspiration needs to be cultivated. While your passion might be there, your satisfaction can shift based on outside circumstances and your overall mood.
The best way to stay inspired consistently is to focus your time on the aspects of your work you appreciate most. The role that fits you best. The activities that light you up or calm you down. The people and the projects - maybe even solving the problems - that feed your energy, rather than depleting it.
Fill your work time as much as possible with things you’re good at and you enjoy - and contain your time on (or systematize/delegate) tasks that don’t thrill you.
Balance your workday
Sometimes the cure for low motivation at work is to STOP working, at least temporarily.
Most people think about creating balance between work and life only…but balance is necessary and important throughout your workday. Infusing your time at work with some fun or relaxation will help you refresh and be more effective.
Creating a quick list of ways to lighten up can make a world of difference when it comes to sustaining your energy and productivity. Your list can be simple, but jotting down ideas in advance makes it easier when your brain and body are stressed.
My list, for example, includes lunch on my patio or while watching great TV, taking a walk or doing a stretch, watching cute videos (kittens and puppies), putting on headphones and turning the music UP.
Every time I try to convince myself that taking even a 5-minute break won’t help (so I should just keep “powering through”), it helps.
Be easy on yourself
There’s an expression I use often with clients when they’re being hard on themselves…don’t add insult to injury.
If you feel unfocused, unmotivated or uninspired, don’t make things worse by getting mad at yourself for your feelings.
We all struggle with motivation. While things may be better or worse for you, if you’re a living, breathing, connected being - especially if you’re empathic - your energy shifts and changes.
So be conscious, creative and extra loving to yourself. Try different approaches. Try again the next day. Ask for help when you need it. Give yourself permission to simply do your best.
As I mentioned, little things make a difference. When you take care of yourself, you give your innate motivation the chance to return. It can take time and might feel different than you expect, but your light inside will always come back with positive change.
Let's talk about making your work and life easier
If you know you need a change, you’re ready to level up or you want the freedom to work and live on your own terms, I’d love to speak to you about private coaching. We’ll talk about your work, your dreams and your challenges and decide together if coaching is right for you. No pressure or obligation, just a conversation about how you can create more success with less stress. Schedule your Coaching Consultation now so we can connect.