GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 01: A man walks through a rain shower in Buchanan Street on November 1, 2010 in Glasgow, Scotland. According to a poll released today, 66% of Brits will feel depressed due to it being "the most miserable day of the year". The changing of UK clocks, falling temperatures and impending government cuts factor into the research, which was carried out by the Canary Islands Tourist Board. Furthermore, Glasgow residents top the poll, followed by the people of Newcastle, Sheffield, Cardiff and London. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images) (2010 Getty Images)
Ever had a down day? No? Well, then, this article isn’t for you.
If, however, you’re like many of us (myself included!), there are plenty of times when you need a little motivation.
Here are a couple of my favorite tricks – for myself – to get me going again when I’m low on energy. Try them out and see what works for you.
Laugh
When I’m down and/or distracted, sometimes I just need to laugh. We know that laughter, from a biological perspective, changes our mood and lifts us up. So find something that works for you.
For example, I save particularly good jokes that people send me in a file on my computer under ‘funny.’ And one of my favorite websites, particularly for laughing at the potential dysfunction of the workplace, is despair.com. Check it out.
Find your own ‘go to’ laughter tool kit that tickles your funny bone.
Talk
Sometimes I need to be able to think ‘out loud’ and unload verbally with a friend who is both safe and understanding. It’s funny how you can feel relief just by talking about how bad you feel.
So long as the friend doesn’t egg you on in your funk, you’re bound to feel better. And, often, your friends will remind you of all you are and have (when you’re done unloading).
Write
If you can’t talk to someone, you might be able to get the same relief by writing about how you feel. This can take the form of ‘journaling’ but it could also be writing poetry, or doodling, or stream of consciousness, etc. Use whatever method works for you.
For me, sometimes just making lists helps! For example, places I want to travel in the world, or people I am grateful for….
Listen to Music
Music is an amazing mover of emotions. Music can make us feel nostalgic, despondent, or happy and hopeful.
I have a song list of tunes that are for me motivating, inspiring and uplifting. Make a song list of favorites that work for you.
Move!
Exercising the body can be as simple as standing up and walking away from where you are at the moment, stretching, or even just clenching and releasing your fingers and toes (or the muscles in your face).
Getting some blood flowing helps relieve much tension, as does breath. Breathe deeply while you’re moving.
If you have time to get outside the office and really get going, take the opportunity to do so. Breaking a sweat will make you feel better and lift your mood. I love kick boxing, because it is a safe way to release some aggression, if needed.
Sing
This is probably not something you can do at your desk, but if you can find a place where you can belt out your favorite song – even if it’s a sad song – it will make you feel better. Singing for a minimum of 15 minutes releases the happy hormones and will help you calm down and feel at peace.
Try it; it works!
What are your motivators? I’d love to hear how you get yourself going, change the momentum, and wake yourself up.
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