Have you ever had one of those days/weeks/months where you felt like you were kind of in a rut or a slump? I know I have.
Sometimes it can show up as a lack of motivation.
Sometimes it can feel like I don’t have anything relevant or interesting to say.
Sometimes, it even feels like I’m in a waiting room (mind you, a nice and pleasant waiting room!) anticipating that next step.
The effects that I’ve witnessed firsthand of this feeling are the significant impact to my creativity and my voice. I speak up less. Sometimes, I don’t think I have anything interesting or valuable to say. I share my ideas less. Sometimes it’s hard to get those creative ideas circulating again.
So, what to do about it?
I don’t think there is a one-size-fits-all solution to this. It really depends on how you’re feeling and what resonates with you. Here are a few things from my own personal experiences that have helped me get out of this ‘rut’ feeling:
Explore somewhere new. This doesn’t need to be a massive travel investment. It can be as simple as trying a new coffee shop or visiting a new park or neighboring community.
Go for a walk in nature. A few months ago, I tried to implement more discipline by going for a brief walk every morning before work. I wasn’t super consistent, but using an app like Strava helped keep me honest. The days that I did go for a walk? I felt so much more refreshed and a bit calmer throughout the day. (check out this article from the UK site, Walking for Health)
Talk to an inspiring friend(s). Depending on your relationship with said friend, a quick chat can potentially make you feel completely refreshed. Sometimes all it takes is a little reminder that. you are creative. You are smart. You can do this! Sometimes, that fresh perspective can really help.
I’ve combed through some past articles that might also provide a little inspiration and motivation: