Zero energy. What to do when you don’t feel like it

Each of us has such moments in life when interest in work and hobbies disappears. In the morning we wake up lethargic, during the day we force ourselves to do something with great difficulty, and by the evening we lose our last strength. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to get rid of apathy and get back on track.

1. Planning

Sometimes apathy can be explained by the fact that you are simply drowning in business and do not know how to cope with all the responsibilities. Try making a to-do list every morning. Write down everything you plan to do during the day. You should not keep this in mind: this way you only load the brain with unnecessary information and expose yourself to additional stress.

Once you’ve made your list, prioritize three things. If all tasks are equally important, mark the most difficult and unpleasant. It is for them that you need to take it first . Many start with the easiest, but this is not the best strategy. You don’t want to waste energy on a bunch of small responsibilities, and by the end of the day realize that you haven’t started the main thing?

2. Concentration

According to neuroscientists, multitasking is a sure way to distraction, fatigue and low productivity. Therefore, do not spray on several things at the same time. Train yourself to focus on one thing.

Try to eliminate distractions that prevent you from working calmly: put your phone on silent, close social networking pages, turn off sound notifications. Don’t check email every ten minutes; instead, make it a rule for yourself to parse letters three times a day—in the morning, before lunchtime, and in the evening.

We recommend reading: “The Brain with Obstacles”, “Don’t Do It”.

3. Choice

Still not doing anything? You probably have too much on your to-do list. Think about what you should give up. These can be hopeless projects that you suffer from only out of stubbornness, requests from colleagues (learn to say no!), reports that no one needs, endless meetings and conferences.

You can’t do everything, so you’ll have to choose. Free up time for those tasks that are truly important, and get rid of the rest without regrets.

Sometimes the choice is not so easy. For example, when you are torn between several hobbies. If it takes away your strength, then something will still have to be abandoned. It is better to focus on one hobby than to completely deplete your energy supply and lose interest in everything at once.

4. Game

Monotony and monotony can drive anyone crazy. But let’s admit that it is not always possible to deal only with creative tasks. If you find yourself bored at work, add an element of play.

For example, imagine that each task is an enemy that you need to destroy in order to advance to the next level. Or imagine yourself as a spy, temporarily abandoned in enemy territory. The mission today is to pretend to be the perfect employee and earn the trust of the boss.

Consider whether your boring duties can be completed in some non-standard way. Sometimes just a little play is enough to regain vivacity and a sense of optimism.

5. Rest

If you are not a robot, you need small breaks during the day to recuperate. Allow yourself a five-minute rest every hour. During a break, completely disconnect from work problems. You can get some fresh air, have tea with colleagues, or do some light exercise.

A good rest is also needed after work. You will feel much more energetic if you start going to bed on time, exercising, walking more often and sitting at the computer less.

6. Refusing perfectionism

Perfectionists are always dissatisfied with themselves and the fruits of their labor. Such people spend a lot of energy on the most insignificant task, and they perceive any mistake as a catastrophe of a universal scale.

Trying to achieve perfection in everything, you not only waste time, but also earn stress. If your inner critic is forcing you to endlessly rewrite a long-done presentation, silence him. Instead of striving for perfection, learn to settle for “good enough.” Relax, enjoy what you’re doing, and don’t forget to praise yourself often!

7. Morning rituals

In the morning, it is most difficult to be alert and productive. First you set the alarm to lie down for another half hour. Then you tell yourself to leave the house. At the office, spend time talking with colleagues or reading articles online. The longer you swing, the more tasks accumulate and the less you want to start them.

Start small morning rituals that will help you wake up quickly and get ready for work: two minutes of meditation, exercise, contrast showers, checking email, making a to-do list. Get into the habit of starting the day with these simple actions, not procrastination.

8. Finding a calling

If none of the tips worked, you may just be doing the wrong thing. It’s time to think about where your soul lies. Remember your childhood dreams, make a list of all your hobbies, fantasize about the future. What do you want to achieve? What brings you joy? Be honest with yourself.


There is no need to immediately quit and change profession. Just start doing what you love after work and on weekends. This will be your first step towards happiness and freedom.

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