When I don't feel like it – what to do when there's little motivation

I'm due for a post today but I am finding it really hard to settle on a topic to write about despite having a few ideas and drafts in the pipeline. I rationalise that they wouldn't be great if my heart isn't in it. However, I still want to have a post out to keep the momentum and consistency. This brought me to this topic about motivation – how to continue on even though you don't feel like it.

This emotion is not new. I experienced it in school when needing to complete an uninspiring assignment, or in my running schedule when I know it's a running day and I'm not motivated at all.

It's about taking small steps

When feeling this way, what I found helpful is to rely on a routine to kickstart the process. Taking one step at a time to build up to the actual task. For running, it means changing into running gear and getting out the door. For work, it'll be to read through emails or a working deck to slowly ease myself into it. And for this blog, it's about writing down a stream of conscious thoughts to get into the motion of writing.

Finding inspirations

I'm not gonna lie, discipline and motivation elude me when I need them the most. Without them, I find others inspirational to get started too. This is where social media and podcasts are helpful to find people who are in on the same journey. This post was largely inspired by T42, a local podcast that I love, hosted by Joel and Kishan. The podcast's tone is honest and fun, like listening in to a conversation between two best friends. I wanted to emulate their honesty through this post and document this as part of the process of creating.

But also, it's okay to take a break

While being disciplined and staying consistent is commendable, it is also alright to take a break. This is a lesson I learned from Nike Run Club's Coach Bennett in one of his guided runs: it is smarter to decide not to run today but know that you will pick it up again on another day. Taking a break from a routine promotes proper rest and pause to the daily trudging. This helps to sustain the habit or routine in the long run and to appreciate what you're doing and working towards.

Most importantly, get yourself back on the starting line

All being said, the most important take away from this at all is to start again. Whether you choose to give in a minimal effort or take a break, it is important to know that you will get yourself back onto the journey again. It may not be a good day today, but it won't be the same everyday.

Today's post might be a bit shorter than I like, but I'm glad I got to still work on a content that I feel strongly for. I hope this was helpful in times when you feel unmotivated too.

Till the next!