Low on Motivation

[Missy_M]

Hi all

 I'm new to BB and have been experiencing some significant lows in motivation over the last few months.  My question is simple, what can I do to get motivated again?

i have suffered from anxiety and depression for over ten years, am currently taking meds and have been for the last four years after many failed attempts.  Obviously winter doesn't help but I'm low on energy, would happily sleep all day and am really angry and Irritated.  I don't want to do anything.  Exercise is an enemy of mine, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't, at the moment I'm a sloth.

I know my signals and this could lead to a big downward spiral.  

Any suggestions would be appreciated.  Thanks.

[Narniakid]

Hi Missy M and welcome to BB!

A long term sufferer of severe depression myself, motivation is one of my biggest struggles too.  And I can totally relate to disliking the excercising - I still can't bring myself to  go to a gym!

My first tip for you is to have a look at your environment. Are you comfortable in your own home? Is your bedroom a relaxing and warm place to be in? If not, making a few small changes - perhaps repainting a wall, rearranging furniture or adding some scented candles - can make a big difference regarding your work attitude. I recently made myself a mood board (have a look on Pinterest and get inspired) which I've hung next to my desk, and it's full of Inspiring quotes and photos of places I'd like to go one day, just as a pick-me-up when I'm feeling like I'm getting nowhere.

I also strongly suggest looking into some sort of creative hobby - writing, drawing, painting, sewing, knitting, scrapbooking, pottery; the possibilities are endless. Not only are they excellent outlets for getting out all those feelings, I find I get a sense of accomplishment knowing I've actually made something. 

I wish you all the best, keep us posted, and remember that each day is a new opportunity!

Crystal

[Chris_B]

Hi Missy M, we have a number of threads in our Staying Well forum that you may find useful. Have a look through some of these, and feel free to reach out to our other members in them:

Self help tips for depression

Self help tips for anxiety

Adherence / Compliance -- How do you make yourself do the things that make you feel better?

Divert Your Attention; re-ignite your passions

How do I learn to apply coping STRATEGIES?

What things keep you positive?

Motivation - search and rescue it

[Huffinator]

Hi Missy M,

 I find that getting a calendar or making a planner helps me get motivated for exercise.  It doesn't have to be a month in advance, just start slowly and plan for a week.  Also, try exercising in the morning, as the first thing you do for the day.  That way, you won't give yourself time to talk yourself out of it.  You could also try personal training.  If you have an appointment to do your training, you might be less likely to avoid it.  And exercise doesn't have to be full-on.  Just start easy with walking and go from there.

[Scarlet72]

Hi Missy M, days like this don't feel good but a small amount of exercise can help, it's doesn't have to be a big trip to the gym but a short stroll around the block, this might lead to a longer stroll, maybe sit on a park bench and people watch and watch the world pass you by! Can be quite relaxing. Remember small steps and don't put too much pressure on yourself, just think of one thing you want to achieve today then reward yourself for achieving it.

take care

scarlet72