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How to keep motivated when feeling down?

The definition of motivation is a reason(s) for acting or behaving a certain way. You may need motivation to do a job you dislike because maybe your reason is that you are only doing it for the money, or it may be staying in an unhappy relationship because you fear being single due to society’s expectations are just a few of the many examples.

“If what you are doing is significant enough, you do not need anything to motivate you.”

— Sadhguru

This has got me thinking and reflecting about my past decisions and actions that once I listed out the true reasons behind why I needed motivation at some point, it was clear that I was doing was not making me happy because it was not aligned with my values. There were many countless moments I recalled the #mondayblues going to work and can’t wait for #tgif and the weekend to come. Looking back, I was doing the job solely for my parent’s expectations of me and society’s expectations that it was a good reputable job. Once I left the job and started doing what I was passionate about and what brought a sense of purpose, I felt happier and naturally motivated and could not wait for Monday to roll, despite making less money or sometimes no income for awhile, because I felt deep in my core and believed I was doing something truly significant that improve the lives of so many.

That aside, I learned a few tips and tricks to stay motivated and broke it down to 2 parts :-

Prevention (reduce the likelihood of feeling low or need motivation) :-

  1. Gratefulness journal everyday
    • Write 3 things you are grateful for
  2. Meditate at least 6 minutes everyday
    • Develop mental awareness and helps with clarity by doing a simple meditation of being aware of your breath for only 6 minutes everyday can improve your thoughts for the better in the long run.
  3. Surround yourself with positive people
    • Being around happy and positive people can help rub positive vibes on us and help us see shape our perspectives to be more positive too almost effortlessly

Cure (use it when you need it in the moment) :-

  1. Take a break and go for a walk in nature
    • Going outside for a quick walk helps leave you with a sense of awe and connection with the world. Research from 2020 suggests spending time in nature can help you feel more relaxed and focused, especially when you take the time to notice your surroundings.
  2. Listen to positive or motivating content
  3. Call and chat with someone you trust or just to talk do wonders

xoxo