So every month, I go through “something”, and I say something because, in all honesty, I do not know what to call this period neither do I care to define it. You see, I have simply had enough of the unproductivity that takes place during this period of my life. I am no longer in a position, nor can I afford moments to pass by without purpose. I cannot speak about intentional living when I struggle at times. So I developed a system that allows me to stay focused, consistent, and remain productive unless it was a day that I decided to let go of the reins and allow life to unfold as it wants. Yes, I do have those days, and so should you but, they are by my choice and not random days that become a week where low feelings decide to become my boss.
Here are my Top 5 Strategies To Remain Focused.
Exercise – I believe many of us understand the importance and benefits of exercising. Most times, you will read 3-4 times per week of a mix of cardio and strength training, but I prefer 6 days and my rest day being on Sunday. Exercising was a struggle for me, and I know it is the same for many of us. The key is in us remembering that whatever we commit to will become a habit. What are you committing to each day? It is a simple choice that you must decide and make for yourself. We all are responsible for our experiences, and you get to choose those experiences (good or bad). Will you make exercise a part of your routine? It will increase your focus, improve your mental and physical health, and increase the good feeling hormone—dopamine.
“You choose the future with your actions each day.”
James Clear – Atomic Habits
Eat a balanced diet: It does not take rocket science to figure out that the food we eat will help our overall functioning. As a mother of 3, the following picture is riveted in my brain— a reminder 3 times over 🙂 of the food categories, and so I am reminding you too. It is important that our meals are not one-sided but instead balanced for overall and effective functioning. Hey, I love the occasional indulgence but, notice I included “occasional”, and that means—let’s not go overboard, okurrr.
“When diet is wrong, medicine is of no use. when diet is correct, medicine is of no need.”
– Ayurvedic proverb
Develop a routine – there is no better way to keep on track than having one. I have a saying, ‘a routine will keep you going even while in the dark’. It becomes second nature. On days when you feel demotivated, stick to it. If there is a to-do list, consider mixing things up a bit and performing a difficult task, then an easy, then a difficult…get it? Your routine now has variety, which may incite a bit of enthusiasm. A bit of caution, routines can feel monotonous, and the element of creativity is sometimes non-existent. Be aware of this and allow both to become one.
A champion doesn’t become a champion in the ring, he’s merely recognized in the ring. His “becoming” happens during his daily routine.
Joe Louis
Get Adequate rest– I think we underestimate the importance of good rest. Good rest can mean the difference between waking up in a feel-good mood or someone asking, “did you get up on the wrong side of the bed”? Inadequate rest time causes lethargy, something we can do without in the moments when you are going through “something”. Fun fact: Did you know adequate sleep also helps in keeping the added pounds off? Do you like that? I know you would. Let us get all the rest we need.
Here are 3 powerful quotes on sleep that I love
Sleep is that golden chain that ties health and our bodies together.”
– Thomas Dekker
Sleep is an investment in the energy you need to be effective tomorrow.”
– Tom Roth
‘You must eat and you must sleep.’ They’re the two vital elements for a healthy life.”
— Francesca Annis
Love yourself in the moment – understanding our frailty is necessary for getting us through moments we do not understand. Many times we are unkind to ourselves. We berate ourselves for feeling weak and helpless. It would be good to remember that we are not super-humans. We will have low and high moments. And we will have triggers that cause us to shrink and question ourselves. Here is where we must remember who we are and re-affirm who we are. As a Christian woman, I often use biblical scriptures to remind myself of who I am. Consider doing this too.
Well, there you have it. 5 strategies I incorporate when I am feeling that “something” that remains indefinable. I hope you got value, and I wish you much success in staying focused and motivated during those times when it’s hardest.
Love and continued light.
Have you dedicated your life to Christ? If not, consider this prayer and open yourself to the best life there is.
