Today we are sharing 5 simple ways to take action even when we feel unmotivated. We have super simple tasks to get you up and moving even when getting off the couch is the last thing on your mind.
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In Episode 21 of A to B Podcast, we shared our current slump and commiserated that we all run into a funk every now and then. Sometimes you might need a day to sit on the couch for a minute. However, there are times where you need a little extra jump start to get you out of your slump.
It would be nice if we could just snap out of our funk but we know downtimes happen. It is important to keep things in perspective. Although having the right perspective is a big step in the right direction, many times it is easier said than done. When your mood is low it is hard to see which way to go to find that change in perspective.
So even if we can’t change our mood, we can change our actions! It doesn’t have to be a big change, just turn on some music and choose 1 way to change your surrounding and hopefully your mood will follow. Here are 5 ways to take action when you are in a slump:
1. Find a permanent spot for your keys
Okay, I know this is Organizing 101 but it’s a perfect example of a simple thing you can do to boost your energy without a lot of effort. So if you don’t already have a home for your keys (the bottom of your purse doesn’t count) find a basket, a hook, or decorative bowl to houses your keys.
If this is really too easy, find something else that is causing you grief. Either you can never find it or it is cluttering up your home and find a permanent spot for that problem item.
In my case, I made a permanent home for our drinking glasses so I wouldn’t have cups strewn all over the house! I turned an Ikea candle holder into a tray to corral my family’s cups. You can read more about it in this post.
Whatever you choose, pat yourself on the back for taking action to solve a problem. Then you can sit back down if you want, but my guess is that you will feel ready to do one more thing!
2. Make a permanent Donation Box
This is one of my favorite go-to tips. Creating a permanent donation box or basket or even a holding spot makes it so easy to declutter a little at a time.
A donation box can also provide extra reassurance if you are feeling hesitant about giving items away. It usually take me around a month or so before I get around to dropping off my donations, so if I ever change my mind about something, I can go grab it. If I haven’t really thought about it for the month it has been hanging out in my donations which is most likely the case, I am probably not going to miss it in the future.
Part 2 of this tip, is to look around your home for 10 items you can add to your donation box right now!
3. Clean your sink
If you have heard of FlyLady, you have heard her mantra to Shine your Sink. Although it might sound crazy, there is something about cleaning that one well-used area that can brighten up your day.
Take all the dirty dishes out and focus only on cleaning the sink. However, sometimes I clean all the counters and pile the dishes in the sink and that helps to bring a little order into the kitchen.
If you don’t believe us, test it by cleaning your sink and let us know if it helps lift your mood.
4. Wash your car
No need to get out all the buckets or wax, just a quick wash at the car wash can boost your outlook. It is a such a simple task to change your surrounding whether you drive through or take matters into your own hand at a self service car wash.
If you haven’t already, be sure to listen to the podcast for Bethany’s extra car washing tips!
5. Ten Minute pick up
It is no secret that I am a big fan of timers! I have challenged myself to tackling lots of different spaces in my 10 Minute Organizing sessions here.
But for this tip, we are break out your timer and spend 10 quick minutes straightening up. When the 10 minutes are up, you are done!
In this post, Team Clean, I shared how I get my family involved.
Whether you included your family or focusing on only one room at a time, there are lots of ways to tweak it but the important things is with only 10 minutes of effort you can get a tidier space. Remember that “done is better than perfect.” Ready? Pick a space, set your timer, and join us.
Bonus: Ask for help
Our bonus tip is to call a friend. It could just be for a chat over coffee. Often times chatting with another person can help you gain the perspective you need, especially if you have been stuck in your own head for a while.
If you need extra help, you can look for a professional organizer in your area on Find my Organizer.
How do you pick yourself up when you are feeling down? Do you have a go-to activity that helps lift your mood? Let us know!
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