Tell me if this sounds familiar: you know that you have piles of things you should be working on and accomplishing. Instead, you end up binge-watching Netflix. You’re consciously aware that there are more important things you should be doing. But, you just can’t quite pull your butt of the couch and start getting stuff done.

Please tell me that you’ve found yourself in that exact same scenario. Otherwise, I just feel like a lazy slob.

But really, we’re human. Sometimes we just really lack motivation. And, if you’re anything like me, that lack of motivation typically creeps up during those times when you have tons of things to do. How does that work?!

You don’t need me to tell you that feeling motivated and scratching things off your seemingly endless to-do list is super gratifying and rewarding. Those times when it feels like it takes all of your energy and willpower just to take the dog out? Not so much.

So, today I’m sharing a few tips for kicking your butt in gear at those times when you feel completely unmotivated. Lord knows, that’s when you really need help.

TIPS FOR MOTIVATING YOURSELF

1. Write things down.

Sometimes all I need to pull me out of my lazy slump is a hard slap of reality. Writing down everything I have yet to do typically does the trick. So, jot down a list of all of the things you need to accomplish that day. This provides a visual and makes your to-do list tangible, so you’ll (hopefully!) feel more motivated to get things done. Plus, who doesn’t love the rewarding feeling of crossing things off of a list?!

2. Implement a rewards system.

My dog is willing to do pretty much anything for a treat. But, when I think about it, I’m programmed almost the exact same way. If I can see a light at the end of the tunnel (or, better yet, a Hershey’s bar at the end of my to-do list), I’m willing to charge full speed ahead in order to reach the end. So, put a rewards system in place for yourself. Whether that means watching an episode of your favorite show or enjoying that glass of wine you’ve been craving once you’ve crossed a certain amount of things off your list, seeing something you enjoy at the end of your jam-packed day should help pull you through!

3. Take a quick break.

Sometimes all you need to kickstart your motivation is a quick break. You might just be completely burnt out, which can make it incredibly difficult to focus and stay motivated. So, go for a quick walk or take a short nap. Chances are you’ll feel ready to tackle your to-do list when you return.

4. Drink some water.

This might sound a little extreme — but, if you’re feeling quite lazy and lethargic, you might just really need some water. Some of the symptoms of dehydration are weakness, dizziness, and sluggishness. If you haven’t made an effort to drink a ton of water throughout your day, your body might just be telling you it needs some good ol’ H20 in order to recharge. So, slam a water bottle and get back to it!

5. Stop it with the social media, galdarnit.

To me, nothing is less motivating (or more distracting!) than social media. For the love of God, stop opening up a separate page just for Facebook and continuously refreshing your Instagram feed on your phone. All of that content will still be there when your to-do list is done, I promise.

6. Remind yourself that tomorrow is another day.

You know, sometimes you’re just going to hit a wall. There might be hours — or even days — where you just don’t feel like doing diddly squat. And, that’s ok, my friend! You can come back swinging tomorrow. I’ve run into this problem many times, and I tend to beat myself up over it. You know what making myself feel bad accomplishes? Nothing! So, go take the break you deserve and come back with a fresh attitude tomorrow.

What do you do when you simply can’t unglue your butt from your favorite corner of the couch? I’m always looking for tips to be even more productive!

Until next time!