motivating when in a slump

sometimes it is easier to take cameraphone pictures and slump around than get things done. and the longer this goes on, the harder it is to start up again. i know from experience. but start up again we must, in the words of yoda. here's how to get the force on your side:

image: superterrific via flickr

 

when i get in a slump, several things tend to happen. i get a lot of sleep, and i get a lot of reading done. in bed. this can be because i am sick, or distressed, or simply demoralized when a plan does not materialize as i'd hoped.

the crucial thing to getting started is to break the mold. if you work from home, this means getting out of the house. i can't tell you how much more gets done in a cafe than in my house when i am in a tricky mood. getting yourself away from distraction will force you to work, because that is the productive thing in front of you. not playing with the cat/dog, watching movies, cleaning the house, or whatever other distraction you find yourself pulled into at home. if you have to pay for wifi where you go to work, even better. this makes you work more efficiently and with a sense of progress. usually a day pass at these places is about $10. i have found it to be a worthwhile investment when it's been a few days since i have really made a go of my workload. it is far better to reap the benefit of a good day of work than to "save money" at home.

have go-to motivators. know what fires you up and make use of it. does dancing to music in the morning get you going? jumping rope to the rocky theme? going out to work with a friend in a cafe or the library and making it a race to get as much done as possible? (that last one is really good for the competetive among us.)

make use of how you work! don't fight it or feel you have to be different than you are. pay attention to your quirks and use them. this is the best way to a full work day on your own.

Comments

[kristen]

You're so right about the coffee shop thing. I realized recently that it's about the ONLY way I can get concentrated bursts of work done; particularly writing-based tasks.

[caroline]

thanks! it is amazing how much a small change of scene can do for the brain and for morale. i'm glad to hear the coffee shop plan has been working for you, too.