In this episode, Niamh shares her three-step process for a quick reset when you feel unmotivated or stuck at work. She provides practical advice on how to get back on track and reclaim your focus, whether you're facing a busy period or a quiet one.
January often feels like a long and gloomy month, leading to a general lack of interest and a need for a reset. Niamh explains that feeling unmotivated isn't limited to one time of year; it can happen whenever you feel overwhelmed by a heavy workload or, conversely, when a quiet period leaves you without a sense of urgency. While it's fine to have an unproductive day occasionally, allowing this state to continue can cause unnecessary stress later on. Niamh has a three-step process she uses every time she needs to reset to get herself back into a productive mindset.
The first step is to get away from the desk. If you find yourself "spinning your wheels" without making progress, it's a sign you need a break. Niamh recommends moving your body to move your mind, whether that's going for a walk, doing household chores, or simply resting in a quiet space for 20-30 minutes. The second step is to improve your environment. When you return to your desk, make small changes to optimise your space, such as putting on a work-related playlist, changing the lighting, or even moving your laptop to a different location. The third and most crucial step is to work on the right things. Often, getting stuck is a result of working on a draining task. If possible, Niamh suggests parking the difficult task and moving to something you can progress. If the task is deadline-driven, she recommends getting a colleague's perspective or working with someone for a focused "hour of power" to help build momentum.
Move Your Body, Move Your Mind: Stepping away from your desk and moving around helps shift your mindset.
Optimise Your Environment: Change your surroundings to make them more conducive to work, whether that's through music, lighting, or location.
Work on the Right Tasks: If you're stuck, switch to a task you can make progress on, or get help from a colleague to get moving again.
Don't Let Slumps Linger: While a slow day is normal, allowing a lack of motivation to continue can lead to unnecessary stress later on.
Take a Break: The first step to a reset is to physically get away from your workspace for a short break, whether it's for exercise or rest.
Change Something Small: Small changes to your work environment, like putting on a specific playlist or getting a favourite drink, can help you get back in the zone.
Know When to Switch Tasks: If a task is draining your energy and causing you to spin your wheels, it's often better to park it and work on something you can easily progress.
Find a "Buddy": If a task is essential and you're stuck, working with a colleague can provide a fresh perspective and the motivation to get it done.
Welcome to The Better Workday Podcast with your host, Niamh Moynihan. Niamh is the founder of Better Workday. She will challenge you to think differently about how you manage your time, energy, attention and relationships at work to be successful while supporting your well-being.
In each episode Niamh shares new insights and practical ideas to help you create a better workday.
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