I need a reboot, or maybe just a kick in the you know what. I cannot get started today and I have tried all of my tricks – music, snacks, coffee, a walk in the sunshine – nothing is working. I guess I caught a lucky break because I don’t have anything critical to do today. 

Or, maybe that isn’t great news because having a deadline might help me snap out of it? Hard to say.

So, what do you do when you just can’t seem to get moving? 

Put on real clothes

This sounds obvious, but given that a lot of us work from home these days and can work in pajamas, sweatpants, or leggings, cleaning up and putting on “real” clothes can help remind you that you are a professional who has some work to do.

Move your body

Taking a walk outside or a dance break inside can get your blood moving and clear out some of the sludge. Stretching or some cardio can be good too. Most of us spend way too much time in static positions. Our bodies weren’t meant for this. 

Clean or clear your space

Whether it is clearing out your inbox, organizing your desk, or doing some dishes, cleaning and clearing can free up energy that you can use to jumpstart your productivity. You might even feel better and have more brainspace. 

Do something else

Sitting and staring at your screen can start a downward spiral of negative self-talk and anxiety. Watching the flashing cursor may make you a bit batty. It can help to go do something else on your to-do list, or for 15 minutes, and then come back to your task. 

Remember your why

Why are you doing this in the first place? How can it help your business? Can you tap into some motivation by thinking about what it will get you, or the feeling of relief you will have when it is done? 

Take a nap

Sometimes the best thing you can do is just check out for a bit. Set a timer and lie down. Napping is a time-honored tradition for creative thinkers. Sometimes you need to check out to check back in. 

If you’re still stuck, as I am, you might need to ask if it is something you really need to be doing, and if you need to be doing it right now. Maybe you can swap it with some equally valuable task that isn’t so draining, which is exactly why I am writing this post right now. 

And after I am done, I might take a nap anyway just because. 

Photo by Luz Fuertes on Unsplash