Ah, that dreaded wave of laziness that sneaks up just when you promised yourself you’d be productive — sometimes it feels almost unavoidable whether you’re working from an office, your kitchen table, or even the most inspiring of coworking spaces.
If you often find yourself struggling to stay focused and energized when motivation is nowhere to be found (especially on Monday mornings when the to-do list is extra-long), I’ve got just the remedy for you: a few easy tips to kick the laziness to the curb, reignite your drive, and power through the rest of your day like the superwoman you are.
Pssst... Here's a few printable planners I thought you might like!
Fruit is Your Friend
Nothing is better distraction from our laptop screens than the incessant urge to get up from our desk and go browse the snack cabinet. Half the time, you aren't even hungry — you're just looking for something to do that isn't on your to-do list.
It's a bad habit, but one that can be easily fixed with some planning ahead and smart decision-making at the grocery store. Rather than simply relying on willpower (which, if you're like me, is a recipe for disaster...or chocolate chip cookies), fill your fridge with healthy pick-me-up snacks like nuts, fresh fruit or hard-boiled eggs.
Not only will these healthy snacks give you the energy boost you need, but you’ll feel better about avoiding a mindless sugar-induced roller coaster ride and can indulge in something even more tasty for dinner later.
Change Up Your Surroundings
Mondays are so boring because the monotony of your same old weekly routine is back. So why not mix things up? Next time you start to feel an afternoon slump coming on, step outside and take a mini adventure somewhere around your workplace or neighborhood.
Explore a new hallway in the office, chat with a colleague you haven't caught up with in a while, or discover a hidden nook to work from for a small change of scenery — it might sound silly, but it can go a long way in boosting your energy and motivation.
Get Up and Get Moving (and Maybe Even Get Dancing?)
Instead of staring into the depths of your own soul via your little square on Zoom, take that afternoon call with headphones and go do a few laps around the building or your neighborhood.
You might be surprised how getting some exercise in actually gives you more energy, not expels it. Walking while working helps the creative juices flowing, or, if you have a meeting-free afternoon (blessed), treat yourself to an iced coffee run (ahem...walk) or do a five-minute quick stretch session in the grass outside.
You're coworkers might think you're crazy, but just getting your legs moving is a great way to wake yourself up from the inevitable afternoon coma. Better yet, have some fun with it — maybe even throw on some music and throw around a few dance moves to really boost your mood if you're feeling particularly groovy. Just simply getting up from behind your computer screen and getting your body moving is enough to get your blood flowing — your body will be more alert because of it, avoiding that late afternoon energy crash.
Positive Procrastination
Alright, so it's far from scientifically proven, but I swear by the positive procrastination method: If you're finding it hard to focus on your most pressing task, put it to the side for just a moment. Instead, take a peek at your weekly planner and go tackle one of the smaller, less intimidating items first. Knocking out a few quick wins will give you a sense of accomplishment and the motivation to tackle the big stuff next.
The momentum of getting things done (and that sweet, sweet satisfaction of scratching out something on your daily to-do list, no matter how small) is bound to snowball, and finally when you feel ready to tackle that one big daunting project, you'll probably realize you were hyping up some of the dread in your head, and it actually wasn't that bad.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
It sounds simple, but water really is like a magic potion. Dehydration — a state in which most of us constantly are — can make you feel sluggish and tired. So make sure to keep a water bottle handy and make a habit of constantly sipping on it throughout the day. Bonus points if you add some fresh lemon or cucumber!
“You don’t have to feel motivated to move — you just have to move, and motivation follows."
Sure, we’d all prefer to be lounging at the beach, but with these tricks you’ll be better prepared to push through those idealistic daydreams that have you nodding off at your desk. Remember, keeping things fun and lighthearted is the secret — that goes for Monday afternoons and for life in general.
Here's to a productive and energized rest of the day. You’ve got this!
