Kevin Veitia
Ever had one of those days when you're sitting at your desk, staring blankly at your screen, and the words "I just can't even" repeatedly echo in your mind? Yep, I hear you. We've all been there. The struggle is real, my friends. But, what if I told you that you could still keep the productivity train chugging along, even when you're not feeling it? Intriguing, right?
Welcome, weary marketers, to your survival guide for when you aren't feeling like work. Here, we're going to wade through the murky waters of demotivation and distraction, and come out the other side, victorious. Shall we begin?
But first, a confession. This isn't just about you. (Surprise!) It's about me too. I've been down this road more times than I care to count. Heck, I was in the trenches of "I can't even" while writing this very piece! So, trust me when I say that I've been there, done that, and come out the other side, laptop still in hand.
"The secret of getting ahead is getting started." - Mark Twain
So, let's get started, shall we? Along this journey, we'll explore practical strategies, tried and tested tips, and a pinch of mind-over-matter magic, all aimed at helping you keep your head in the game, even when you'd rather be anywhere else. Ready to dive in? Let's do this!
1. Acknowledge Your Feelings
First off, let's get one thing straight. It's okay to not feel your best all the time (despite what Instagram might have you believe). Life, like that box of chocolates Forrest Gump's momma always talked about, is unpredictable. You never know what you're gonna get. So, if you're feeling off, remember you're not alone in this. In fact, over 50% of employees feel burnt out at work. This is just a phase and it will pass.
2. Just Start
Getting started is often the hardest part. You know, that moment when you're staring at your to-do list like it's a foreign language? (Been there, done that, got the T-shirt.) Trust me, sometimes you've just got to take a deep breath and dive in. You might surprise yourself!
3. Breakdown Tasks
A big project can be daunting, like trying to eat an elephant in one bite (don't actually try that, please). It's much more manageable when broken down into smaller, bite-sized tasks. Divide and conquer is the name of the game here. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither will your marketing campaign.
4. Set Realistic Goals
Setting unrealistic goals is like setting yourself up for a trip to Disappointment City, and let's be real, nobody wants to go there. Set yourself achievable targets. Remember, progress is progress, no matter how small.
5. Celebrate Wins (big or small)
Finally, celebrate your victories, even the tiny ones (yes, even finishing that report counts). A little self-love never hurt anybody. It's like a pat on the back from yourself. It's amazing how such a small act can boost your motivation to keep going.
Remember, it's okay to not feel it sometimes, it's human. But with these strategies, you can keep moving forward, even when you're not feeling at your best. As they say, the show must go on!
Find Inspiration in Other Places
Ever have one of those days where the creative juices just aren't flowing? (I know I have.) Filling that empty page or screen can feel like an uphill slog when the muse has taken a vacation. But don't despair—inspiration can come from a variety of different places, it's just about knowing where to look.
Shake up your routine. Take a walk, go to a new coffee shop, or just sit in a different part of your house. Sometimes all it takes is a change of scenery to get the wheels turning again. I can count.)
Podcasts: Podcasts are a great way to get a new perspective. And the best part? You can listen while you're doing something else. (Multi-tasking for the win.)
Art: Whether it's visiting a gallery or just scrolling through Instagram, looking at art can be a great source of inspiration. It's all about seeing things from a different angle.
At the end of the day, inspiration doesn't come from one source, it comes from a plethora of sources. So, let's put on some comfy shoes and start exploring those uncharted territories. Who knows what you might stumble upon?
Take Breaks and Move Your Body
Alright, this might sound counterintuitive, but trust me, it works. Taking breaks can actually boost your productivity and help you stay focused when you're not feeling it. Imagine your brain as a muscle (because, well...it kind of is), it needs to rest periodically to perform at its best. It's like going to the gym and working out; you wouldn't do endless reps without taking a breather, would you? No, you'd be passed out on the floor with a dumbbell for a pillow. The same logic applies to your brain. So, take a break, rest, and recharge.
But there's a catch. You can't just lounge around checking your social media or binge-watching your favorite Netflix series. Instead, try moving your body. Engaging in physical activity can help to recharge your brain and increase your focus. Here's why:
It boosts your mood: Physical activity stimulates the production of endorphins, the body's natural mood lifters. Even a short walk around the office or some quick stretches can do wonders for your mood and motivation.
Gets the blood flowing: When you move your body, you increase blood flow to the brain, which helps to sharpen your focus and cognition. Basically, it's like giving your brain a mini tune-up.
Provides a change of scenery: Stepping away from your desk or work environment can provide a much-needed change of perspective. It's a simple and effective way to refresh your mind.
Remember: "The body achieves what the mind believes." So, if your mind is feeling stuck, move your body!
Now, you might be thinking, "I don't have the time or space to exercise at work," but fret not. You don't need to run a marathon or do a sweaty HIIT workout. Here are a few simple exercises you can do right at your desk:
Stretching: Reach for the sky, touch your toes, do some neck rolls. Simple stretching can help to relieve tension and boost your mood.
Walking: Take a brisk walk around your office or outside. If you can't leave your desk, try marching in place. Sounds silly, but your brain will thank you.
Chair Yoga: Yes, it's a thing. There are plenty of online tutorials for desk-friendly yoga poses. You might get some strange looks from your coworkers, but hey, you'll be the one laughing when you're smashing through your tasks while they're slumped over their keyboards.
So, there you have it. When you're not feeling it, take a break and move your body. It might seem like you're wasting time, but in reality, you're investing in your productivity and mental wellbeing. And trust me, your work will thank you!
Create a Support System
Listen up, folks, because I'm about to get real with you. There's something magical that happens when you start connecting with other people in your field. It's like a light bulb goes off, and suddenly, you're not alone in your struggles. So, my first piece of advice? Create a support system.
Now, I know what you're thinking. "But I'm an introvert! Networking isn't my thing!" Or maybe you're saying, "I don't have time for chit-chat. I've got work to do!" To that, I say: you've got it all wrong, my friend.
"Your network is your net worth."
No, I didn't coin that saying, but man, do I wish I had. It's so true. Your support system isn't just about having someone to vent to when you're feeling down (though that's a nice perk). It's about learning, growing, and pushing each other to do better.
So how do you create this magical support system? Here are some tips:
Reach Out: Don't be afraid to reach out to other marketers. Send a LinkedIn request, shoot them an email, or if you're feeling bold, give them a call. You'd be surprised how receptive people can be.
Find a Mentor: If you can find someone with more experience than you, they can provide guidance, inspiration, and sometimes a much-needed reality check. Remember, there's no shame in asking for help.
Join a Community: There are countless marketing communities out there, both online and offline. Find one (or a few) that resonate with you and get involved. You'll find a wealth of knowledge and support waiting for you.
So there you have it. The first step to keeping your motivation up when you're not feeling it? Build a support system. You'll find that having people around who understand your struggles can make all the difference in the world. And who knows? You might even make a few friends along the way.
Eliminate Distractions and Set Boundaries
Let's face it - we live in a world that's louder than a toddler on a sugar rush. Our phones beep, buzz, and blink with notifications every other minute. Social media, emails, text messages, and even good old phone calls can become major distractors when you're trying to stay focused on your work. And let's not even get started on the allure of the siren call of Netflix. So how do we combat these attention-grabbing diversions? Well, dear reader, it's all about setting boundaries and eliminating distractions. Easy to say, hard to do, right?
Ditch the Digital Distractions
First thing's first - switch off those pesky notifications. I mean, do you really need to know right this second that Aunt Mary just liked your post on Facebook or that your favorite online store is having a flash sale? Probably not. (Unless you're in the middle of a bidding war on eBay...then disregard this advice.)
Try setting specific times during the day when you check your emails and messages, and stick to it. It might be tough initially, but trust me, you'll thank yourself later.
Set Work Boundaries
Setting boundaries is crucial, especially if you're working from home (and who isn't these days?). It's easy to blur the lines between work and personal time when your office is just a few steps away from your bed or kitchen.
Commit to a specific work schedule, as much as possible, and make it clear to others around you. This includes your family, friends, and even your adorable pet who doesn't understand why you can't play all day. (Seriously, have you tried explaining the concept of work to a dog? It's like trying to explain quantum physics to a potato.)
Declutter Your Work Space
Ever heard the saying, "A cluttered desk is a sign of a cluttered mind"? While this may not be entirely true (I mean, Einstein's desk was a mess, and he seemed to do okay), having a clean and organized workspace can certainly help in minimizing distractions and increasing productivity.
So go on, tidy up that desk, delete unnecessary files from your computer, and create a workspace that screams "I'm ready to get things done!" Well, not literally screams...that would be unsettling.
We're all human (at least, I assume you are, unless there are any AI reading this...in which case, hello there!), and it's completely normal to have off days where we don't feel as motivated or inspired. But with a few tweaks, boundaries, and a strong will, we can navigate through our work, even on those not-so-feeling-it days. You got this!
Reward Yourself for Accomplishments
Boy, oh boy, don't we all love a good pat on the back? (And if you're saying 'no', you're probably fibbing.) In the world of marketing, the wins can sometimes feel far between. It's a tough gig, right? But, believe it or not, one of the most effective ways to stay motivated, even when you're not feeling it, is to reward yourself for your accomplishments—no matter how small.
Now, I don't mean you should throw a party every time you send an email (though wouldn't that be fun?), but consider setting up a system of rewards that correspond to your tasks. It could be as simple as a 15-minute break to walk around the block, or as indulgent as a fancy coffee from your favorite cafe. The key here is to make the reward something that genuinely brings you joy and gives you a moment of respite.
Still wondering if this 'reward system' is more than just an excuse to treat yourself? (I see that skeptical look.) Well, let me break it down for you:
Motivation Boost: Knowing there's a reward waiting at the end of a task can give you that extra nudge you need when your productivity is waning. It's like a carrot at the end of a stick, except you're not a donkey, and the 'carrot' could be a Netflix binge.
Positive Reinforcement: By rewarding yourself, you're essentially training your brain to associate work with positive outcomes (instead of just stress and exhaustion). Pavlov would be proud!
Satisfaction and Fulfillment: Completing a task is satisfying. Add a reward to the mix, and you've got a double whammy of fulfillment. Who doesn't love that?
Remember, the goal here is not just to get through your tasks, but to make the process enjoyable. So, treat yo' self! (Anyone else a Parks and Rec fan?)
It's a simple strategy, but sometimes it's the simple things that make the most difference. So, next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or unmotivated, remember to reward yourself for your hard work. I promise, it makes a world of difference.
Experiment with Different Work Environments
Oh, the places you'll go... with your laptop and Wi-Fi! (Dr. Seuss, forgive me.) Seriously, though, let's talk about switching up your work environment.
See, we humans are creatures of habit, marketers and are no exception. But sometimes, our usual workspace - be it an office cubicle, a cozy home office, or a coffee shop in the corner - can feel more stifling than stimulating. We hit a rut. We're stuck in a loop. We're not feeling it. So, what's the solution?
Experiment with different work environments!
Now, before you squawk about the impracticality of working from a beach in Tahiti (though that sounds tempting, doesn't it?), remember that changing your environment doesn't necessarily mean booking a flight. It could be as simple as moving to a different room, trying out a new coffee shop, or even reorienting your desk. The goal is to shake things up and give your brain some fresh stimuli.
Remember: Change is as good as a rest.
Here are some ideas:
So, picture this: It's the crack of dawn, your alarm is blaring, and you're staring at the ceiling, seriously contemplating the merits of being a professional duvet tester. Been there, done that, got the sleep lines to prove it. But hey, we all have days when we're not feeling it. So, let's roll up our sleeves and dive into some strategies that I've found helpful (and hope you will too).
Break it down
When you're staring down a mammoth task, it's easy to feel overwhelmed (Who wouldn’t, right?). The trick is to break it down into bite-sized chunks. It's like eating an elephant, which I mean metaphorically, of course. You tackle it one bite at a time.
Get organized
Ever sit down to work and realize your desk looks like a war zone? Yeah, not exactly inspiring. Spend a few minutes getting your workspace (virtual or physical) in order. It is amazing how a clean workspace can clear your mind and improve your focus.
Try the "two-minute" rule
This is a favorite of mine. If something takes less than two minutes to do, do it immediately. It's surprising how many tasks you can knock out using this simple rule. Plus, it gives you a quick win, which can be a tremendous morale booster when you're not feeling it.
Power through with pomodoros
Ever heard of the Pomodoro Technique? You work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. Rinse and repeat. It's a fantastic way to manage your time and keep your focus sharp. And who knows? You might just find that once, start you you won't want to.
Find your "why"
Remember, motivation comes and goes, but if you can connect with the reason why you're doing what you're doing (your purpose), it can help you push through those tough moments. So, why are you a marketer? What do you love about your job? Keep that front and center, and it can help you stay the course, even when you're not feeling it.
Remember, we all have off days.'s It part of being human. But with these strategies, you can keep moving forward, even on the days when you'd rather stay in bed. So, what do you say? Ready to roll up your sleeves and tackle-do to list your?
Utilize Mindfulness and Meditation Practices
There are days, aren't there, when it feels like your motivation has taken an unscheduled vacation and left no forwarding address? I've been there. It's tough! But here's one thing I've found helpful during those times - mindfulness and meditation practices.
Yeah, I hear you. Sounds like hippy stuff, right? Like something you'd do in between hugging trees and baking gluten-free bread. But hear me out. I promise it's not as out there as it sounds.
Ground Yourself with Mindfulness
When you're feeling unmotivated, it's often because your mind is cluttered with a million different thoughts. It's like trying to hear a whisper at a rock concert. Impossible, right? That's where mindfulness comes in. It's all about focusing on the present moment. Here's how you can do it:
Take a moment: Close your eyes. Take a deep breath. Feel the air filling your lungs. And then let it out. Slowly. Try to focus only on your breathing.
Observe: Open your eyes. Look around you. What can you see? What can you hear? Try to be an observer of your own experience, rather than getting caught up in it.
Accept: This is the big one. Accept your feelings of demotivation. Don't judge them or try to push them away. Just acknowledge them and let them be.
The goal of mindfulness is to clear your mind, allowing you space to find your motivation again. It sounds simple, but it can make a big difference. I've found it a game-changer in my work.
Find Focus with Meditation
Another tool in your 'overcome demotivation' arsenal is meditation. I know, I know. It sounds very Zen, and you're probably not feeling very Zen right now. But meditation isn't about achieving some sort of enlightened state. It's about helping you focus.
"Meditation is like a gym in which you develop the powerful mental muscles of calm and insight." - Ajahn Brahm
Not convinced? Here's a simple meditation exercise you can try:
Find somewhere quiet: You don't need a perfectly serene environment, but somewhere you won't be interrupted is ideal.
Set a timer: Five minutes is a good starting point. It doesn't seem like much, but it can feel like an eternity when you're starting out!
Focus on your breath: Feel it going in. Feel it going out. If your mind wanders (and it will), just gently bring it back to your breath.
If you're feeling particularly adventurous, there are plenty of guided meditations available online that can help you get started.
So, my friend, next time you're feeling like your motivation has packed up and left town, why not try mindfulness or meditation? They might not bring your motivation back from its vacation, but they'll at least help you cope until it decides to return.
Collaborate and Communicate with Coworkers for Support
Hey, we've all been there, right? Slouched at the desk, staring blankly at the screen, fingers poised over the keyboard but going nowhere fast. You're just not feeling it. But, remember, you're not alone in this wild world of marketing!
The solution? Collaboration and communication. Yes, my friend, even when you're marooned on the Island of Zero Motivation, your coworkers can be your lifeline. Let's dive in, shall we?
Why Collaboration Works
First off, let's get one thing straight. Collaboration doesn't mean dumping your work on someone else. It's all about synergy, baby! Two heads are better than one, and all that jazz. You bring your skills and ideas, they bring theirs, and voila! Magic happens.
How to Collaborate Effectively
Oh boy, collaboration! You know that thing where you have to work with other people? Yeah, that's it. As much as we'd love to be lone wolves, clicking away at our keyboards in the comfort of our solitude, the marketing world just doesn't roll like that. We gotta play nice with others. But how do you keep the productive juices flowing when your tank is running on empty? Here's how:
Chunk it up: Big projects can be as scary as running into your ex at a party. Break 'em down into smaller, manageable tasks. It's easier to tackle a pizza slice by slice, right? Same principle here. Plus, it gives you that sweet sense of accomplishment every time you tick something off.
Communicate, communicate, communicate: Ever tried to guess what your dog wants when they're barking at you? It's frustrating, isn't it? Don't be that dog. Clear, open communication is the glue that binds a team together. So, be transparent about your progress, expectations, and any roadblocks you're facing. Remember, your team isn't a bunch of mind readers!
A little R&R: No, not rest and relaxation (though that's important too), but Recognition and Reward. A little pat on the back can go a long way in boosting morale and motivation. If a team member does something praiseworthy, shout it from the rooftops! Or, at least, give them a virtual high-five in your group chat.
"Teamwork makes the dream work, but only when you've got some gas in the tank."
So there you have it, folks. Next time you're feeling as motivated as a sloth on a hot day, remember these tips. They just might help you keep your head in the game when all you want to do is call it quits. Now, go out there and be the collaboration champ we know you can be!