It’s true. Even the most positive, enthusiastic people lose their motivation once in a while. So, when you find yourself going through a dull, low, ‘I-just-don’t-feel-like-it’ phase, know that it’s completely normal. The question is, what are you going to do about it?
Not to worry, I’m here to help you out with 3 simple but practical tips that have worked for me and have gotten me out of many ruts.
So, shall we begin?
Tip 1: Self love and self care
Ever since we were young, we’ve been taught that putting ourselves first is somehow ‘selfish’. It’s been driven into our minds that family comes first, no questions asked. Yes, family is important, but not at the cost of your health and well-being. Somehow, self-care took a backseat, and in some cases, never even existed in the first place.
The truth is, you need to take care of yourself and preserve your energy. How else are you going to take care of your loved ones? Remember this: a health you equates to a healthy family.
To do this, you’re going to need a shift in your mindset. It’s not going to happen overnight. So, start with something simple which you feel will help you restore your sense of well-being and peace of mind. Something like taking a long, warm bath or just starting at the moon, or just taking your dog out for a walk. Whatever puts you at ease and makes you feel completely you.
Tip 2: Discipline, discipline, discipline
Ok, I didn’t mean to sound like an army general there, but the importance of discipline cannot be overstated. Most of us don’t realize this, but it’s just another shift in mindset. Let me explain.
The problem a lot of us face is, we want to see immediate results. Be it for a workout regimen or while trying out a new diet.
The key is to not put too much pressure on yourself and allocate a separate time for your workout. And tell yourself that no matter what, you’ll workout at that time on whatever day of the week it is.
I agree it’s not easy. I’ve been there, too. There was a time when I found it really hard to exercise (lack of motivation, you see), and my father used to tell me that even if I didn’t attend my lessons, I should still exercise. It was hard in the beginning, but I pushed through and it has really helped me.
Tip 3: Feel good first, look good next
One of the things yoga taught me is that feeling good is the key and looking good is the by-product.
We live in a world where everything outside dictates how we feel. Our friends, the latest trends, TV shows. But why don’t we put a spin on that and look at what lies within? We need to establish that connection with our body to create a sense of well-being.
Listen to what your body is telling you. Find out what activities make you feel good; what kind of food is easy on your body; what kind of music soothes you. It takes practice, but being in tune with the signals your body is sending out will go a long way in making you feel whole — not just physically, but mentally as well.
So, there you have it: 3 tips that have helped me on my journey so far. Try them out and let me know what you think.
Stay tuned for more posts on self-care, health, well-being and peace of mind.