Photo by Luis Villasmil on Unsplash
You know those moments when you’re having a difficult time focusing and feeling a bit stuck? You want to be productive, but the juices just aren't flowing?
I felt that way earlier this week, which is what inspired this article.
This doesn't have to mean that there is something big looming over you. Some days, it's just harder to find the motivation than others. Instead of forcing yourself through this feeling, and possibly creating work you are not 100% proud of, take a moment to step back and reset. A 20-minute reset to increase productivity for the rest of the day sounds like a great trade-off to me.
Here are a few tips to address that “stuck” feeling:
Focus on another task. If your immediate task is not time-sensitive, try putting it to the side and work on something you know you can complete. Maybe this is following up on emails, returning a voicemail, etc. The completion of tasks (no matter how big or small) will have a snowball effect, encouraging you to keep the momentum going.
Do something physical. Take time away from your computer for some physical activity and a change of scenery. If weather permits, get outside and take in some fresh air. This could be a casual walk, or if you’d like, something more intense.
Make a to-do list. Sometimes that stuck feeling is tied to the racing thoughts regarding the multitude of other tasks you have to complete. The “I have so much to do, I don't know where to start” feeling. Try getting them onto paper so you know you can reference this list of items at another time. This will help you clear your mind and organize your thoughts.
Listen to a podcast. This is something you can step away from your workspace to do, or play in the background to offer a different element to your work environment. You could choose something informative so that you are still feeling productive or something mindless to use as a distraction.
The last thing you want is for a momentary lack of motivation to overcome you. Give yourself some grace in this moment, and do what you need to reset and get back on track.
Written by: Emily Onheiser, Senior Search Consultant at Hunter Crown, LLC
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