How to Kickstart Your Motivation and Thrive

As we navigate the prolonged waves of the pandemic, a common narrative has emerged among individuals from all walks of life. Many are finding themselves trapped in a state of stagnation and emptiness, a phenomenon that has become all too familiar in our current global situation.

This feeling, often termed ‘languishing,’ has become a shared experience, resonating deeply with people worldwide.

The Double-Edged Sword of Rest

The feeling of stagnation or immobility, frequently accompanied by a sense of emptiness, is what languishing encapsulates. It’s as if life is being viewed through a foggy lens, where days blend into one another without a sense of progress or fulfillment.

This feeling gained widespread recognition during the pandemic, offering individuals a label for their experiences and a sense of solidarity with others in the same boat.

The initial prescription was rest in response to this widespread sense of burnout and emotional fatigue. Physical, emotional, social, and spiritual rest were all emphasized as crucial for recovery.

However, an extended period of rest has its pitfalls. It can lead to a state of inertia where, despite feeling physically recovered, a psychological sense of disconnection and listlessness persists.

Enter the concept of behavioral activation, a strategy developed in the 1970s. This approach challenges the notion that motivation precedes action. Instead, it posits that taking action, even in small ways, can catalyze motivation. This idea is particularly potent when feeling stuck, as it encourages movement and progress, however incremental.

Moving Beyond Forced Positivity

Behavioral activation contrasts the now-debunked concept of forced positivity – the idea that simply thinking positive thoughts can lead to happiness and success. Current understanding suggests that controlling thoughts and feelings often has the opposite effect. Instead, behavioral activation focuses on engaging in meaningful activities and aligning actions with values and interests, regardless of the prevailing mood or emotional state.

A key aspect of moving beyond languishing involves a shift in mindset. It’s about recognizing and accepting negative emotions without allowing them to dictate one’s actions. This means giving oneself permission to feel low or unmotivated but not seeing these feelings as permanent or insurmountable.

Activation Energy: The Initial Push

The concept of ‘activation energy’ is crucial in this context. It refers to the effort required to initiate a task or activity. During times of stress or emotional fatigue, like in the current pandemic, this activation energy might be higher. Recognizing and accepting this can be the first step in overcoming inertia.

Once the initial resistance is overcome, momentum can start to build. Engaging in minor activities can create a positive feedback loop where action begets more action. This process can gradually lead to an improvement in mood and a sense of accomplishment.

The Role of Small Steps

When dealing with the overwhelming feeling of languishing, small steps matter. It’s about setting manageable goals and celebrating minor victories. Whether making a phone call, organizing a walk with a friend, or dedicating time to a hobby, each small action is a step away from stagnation.

It’s essential to remember that the state of languishing is not permanent. As daunting as it may seem to initiate change while feeling stuck, the effort is worthwhile. The more we engage in actions aligned with our interests and values, the easier it becomes to break free from the rut.

As we continue to face the challenges brought on by the pandemic, it’s crucial to recognize the impact of languishing on our mental health. We can find a way out of the fog by embracing behavioral activation and acknowledging our emotions without letting them control us. It’s about taking that first step, however small, and building momentum from there. In doing so, we can rediscover our motivation and sense of purpose, moving towards a brighter, more fulfilling future.