How I Motivate Myself

I’m sure you have those days where you just don’t feel like doing anything. There’s a lot to be done, but… none of it is getting done. Or maybe you started the day peppy and productive, but after your work day or afternoon of running errands all you want to do is sit on the couch and get on your phone or TV. I get you! This is me! And I am all for taking breaks from the busyness of life. I believe in the importance of taking a day of rest once a week, and taking small breaks during the day or using the evening to relax. On the other hand, I also believe that laziness isn’t a good thing. I’m going to tell you what I’ve found I can do that helps me when I’m feeling down or unmotivated. 

Praying. This is where I know I should start when I’m not feeling great on the inside. My strength comes from my God, and I know that with Him anything is possible. That means He can give me joy and help me be productive. I’m so thankful that I always have a listening ear no matter where I am, and not only a caring listening ear, but Someone who has the power to do something about whatever it is that’s going on! Prayer is powerful, because God is powerful!

Getting dressed. Like, putting on jeans and a nice, clean shirt. I know sweatpants are more comfortable, but jeans can give me a boost. I feel more presentable and ready to get out there when I put on jeans. They can be really cute and comfortable! If you don’t own any comfortable jeans, you just need to go on a bit of a hunt for some; there really are comfy jeans out there! 

Getting around. If I only get dressed but don’t brush my teeth or put on deodorant, I still don’t feel like going anywhere or doing much of anything. I feel much more at ease after I know I don’t smell and my teeth feel nice. Now, some of you may not want to or are able to spend two hours getting all fresh and prettied up, but for me, doing my hair and makeup is relaxing. So if you want that extra boost, I recommend getting as done up as you wish! 

Listening to fun/energetic or worshipful music. I do this while I get around. I have a playlist for weekend vibes, and another one to help me praise God and intentionally spend time with Him and become more focused on Him. I usually listen to whatever I feel like in the moment, but sometimes I do feel that I should prioritize time with God better, so I decide on worship music even if I don’t feel like it. And do you think I ever regret it? (-;

(Also, dance if you feel like it! Even if you’re standing in front of your mirror doing your hair or sitting in the car driving down the road, move to the music!)

Telling myself some true statements. I tell myself things like, “you’re fine, girl,” or “there’s no need to be down today,” or I remind myself of some Bible verses.

Sometimes we do have some very real struggles, but sometimes we just have a gloomy feeling inside for not one specific reason. You only have this day for one day. Why waste it just because of how you feel? I realize that I’m mostly in control of my mood and often feelings and I can change them if I want to. Sure, that comment someone made that hurt my feelings made me sad and disappointed in that person, but why would I let someone else ruin my entire day? Besides, the way I feel -if I am displaying my emotions- can affect how those around me feel, and I don’t want to bring others down. I know how it is to be around a grumpy person and then feel in less of a good mood after that. That’s not pleasant. Taking control of my thoughts and putting truth through my mind is a powerful tool that affects the course of my day.

Stretching. Stretching loosens my body up and gives me a feeling of flexibility and agility. It helps get my blood moving, which gives me a boost of energy. I also do this while listening to music. (-;

Drinking water. Water is so healthy!! It really can give you energy if you’re feeling sluggish. I also drink orange juice, especially in the mornings, which helps too.

Doing something nice for someone else. A few ideas would be sending someone a “thinking of you” text, doing an act of service for someone, or giving a compliment. The small kindnesses or acts of selflessness that we bestow make us happy because we know that it’s affecting others in a positive way. At least, that’s how I see it. In my experience, when I go out of my way to encourage someone else, I feel like I have made at least a small impact in someone’s day and it makes me feel like I’ve done something worthwhile.    

Smiling at myself in the mirror and at others. If I look happy, it helps me feel happier and prettier.

Well, I think there are enough tips here to choose from if you wake up on the wrong side of the bed and need some ideas on how to fix it. I don’t typically do all of these in one day to make myself feel better; just a few should do. I, for one, don’t like feeling down, and if I can help it, I want to do something about it. I also don’t want to be the cause of another person’s gloomy mood. I’m thankful that I have these tools and know how to use them to benefit myself and the environment around me.