I started off well today – motivated about my ‘what I am planning to accomplish’ list!   But I am only half way through this day and I have slumped.  The energy and enthusiasm has waned.  It is frustrating, as the temptation to procrastinate is so very there.  My mind is full of wonderful excuses to just ‘call it a day’. 

This kind of moment, I know, happens to all of us.  Only this morning I met with a young graduate who is really feeling in limbo as she waits to hear back from various companies that she has applied to.  She completed her degree last year and since then she has been working hard at looking for work.  She is motivated and excited some days – and completely flat and despairing on others.  

And this is something that I keep reminding her about: 

Despondency and lethargy  are ‘feelings’ that DO pass.   There are moments too of excitement, accomplishment  and optimism.  Feelings are a response to what we are ruminating about and the ‘angle’ that we are choosing to allow our minds to dwell on. The way through this feeling is by action, no matter how tiny.  These tiny actions stack up – and also increase that feeling of inspiration and energy.  Also, I had to remind her to speak to her self with great kindness and recognition.  A few more ‘well done’s’ are really helpful.  

Following from the session this morning, here a couple of things that I would love you to remind your young who are currently living under your roof …

Yes, those times of just not ‘feeling’ like it are real.  Remember though that ‘feelings’ are forever fluctuating – so be very aware of that and then keep going.  Encourage yourself as you would to a close friend. 

If you are working at a desk, sending off letters or making calls, do keep getting up to move.  I find that getting up every 23 minutes and just a quick ‘shake and jump’ just helps me to renergise … and with this drink refreshing water.  I often will quickly brush my hair, clean my teeth, sprint on the spot as this just resets and reinvigorates me. 

And keep patting yourself on the back for what you are doing.  Really do take good notice of the work that you are putting in – notice the little things and tell yourself ‘well done’.  And it really is … well done!  

Also, from the perspective of structuring your day – this is setting up good habits for when you are working.  You are putting into place vital habits for working successfully.  Perseverance, time management and effective daily disciplines are being developed.  Also, as you make contact with firms and do your research, you are learning so much more about the industry that you are wanting to work in.  You are learning about the competitors, people within your area of interest and hopefully remaining current in your knowledge.  

So, even when you are just wanting to hide away with the duvet over your head, please be reassured that this will pass and will do so quickly as you action yourself out of the slump.  And you CAN do this!