Q: Since I have been staying home during the pandemic, I have noticed I have low energy. It’s hard to be motivated. How can I get my energy back?
A: It’s common for those who are staying home now to feel less productive. You might even be grieving the loss of your normal routine while experiencing a lack of direction and motivation. While it’s challenging to maintain healthy habits and adhere to a daily schedule, it is important to attempt to stick to a routine as much as you can.
It’s also easy to set these high expectations that you “should” be doing more that you are. Please know that it is normal to feel these ebbs and flows in your energy and motivation during these unpredictable times. The following suggestions may be of help to you to increase your motivation during this time:
- Keep a routine. As mentioned above, having a routine will help you in several ways. if you can go to bed and get up at the same times, your circadian rhythm cycle will work best and you will feel more balanced. What you want to avoid now is feeling out of sorts so check to see how your sleep cycle is working for you. When you stick to a routine, you have a better sense of being and staying in control.
- Meditate. When you awaken in the morning, before you get out of bed, take a few deep breaths in and as you exhale just be here now. The moment of presence will keep you calm and full of gratitude for all you have. When you get up, you will feel a sense of taking control of your day. Get dressed and begin your day as if you were going into work.
- Engage in physical activity. We need this more than ever now to help stick to the routine. Whether it’s a walk to begin your day, a yoga or Zumba class, begin with something physical. You will feel more energized and ready to be productive.
- Mentally prepare. As you begin your work day, make sure you have a private work space. If you don’t have a home office, create a work space some where in your home that works for you for privacy. Be sure to take breaks just as If you would while at work.
- Plan meals and other household chores. Whether you live alone or you are sharing your home with house mates or family members, to have some things planned is helpful.
- Play music. If you share a home, you may have to wear headphones, but music can be so helpful to just make your day go well and you will feel good having a nice harmony to add to your day.