Motivation is something that comes and goes even for the most ethereal and productive people in the world. Some days you’re riding a cloud and shooting thunders of energy and other days our minds are deliberately wandering with no intent to do what we are supposed to do…at all. Sometimes getting out of that slump feels like falling down a 10-meter hole.

So how do you get out?

It’s never easy and everyone has different methods. What works for me may not work for you, but hey, don’t knock it till you try it. Here are 3 things I remind myself to think about.

1. The Why

First up, I like to think about WHY I’m doing what I’m doing. Why am I taking this course and giving myself the biggest headache? Why am I going on this walk when I have a bucket load of work to do? And most often than not, it’s because it will be beneficial for the future me. I get motivated by thinking about how I would feel after it’s done. Similarly, before and during a workout I may not feel the best, but man oh man, after a good sweaty session, you bet I feel like a ball of energy. Speaking of ball of energy, I’ve been making these protein energy balls, which comprise of oats, nut butters and any delicious topping you want. It’s a really great way to use up oats, especially if you bought it from Costco. I also love to snack, so these are the perfect pre-workout or afternoon pick-me-ups. And dessert as well. If you can’t tell, I’ve been really enjoying them. That’s another story though.

2. The Consequences

Next up, I think about the consequences. I have a strong sense of responsibility and try my best to ensure I don’t disappoint anyone including myself. However, keep in mind we don’t live in a euphoria, so achieving perfection is close to impossible, but that doesn’t mean you can’t aim for it! Because in the end, who is going to be with you forever? You. No, not your partner or family. It’s you. So, make sure to love yourself but also don’t overindulge. Achieving a balance between loving and caring for yourself is a lifelong goal that I continue to work on because it supports a sustainable supply of motivation.

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“If you don’t have the power to control something – don’t fret about it.”

3. The Control

Lastly, but of course not least, if you don’t have the power to control something, don’t fret about it. Don’t let it push you down. I’m the type of person that gets a boost of energy when the sun is doing its thing, you know — beaming onto the world. I love being in the sun (don’t forget your sunscreen ladies and gentlemen) but I can’t command mother nature to only give me sunny days. So, on sunny days, I make sure I take advantage of it. On cloudy days, I choose things that I can control to improve my mood and motivation. The sun needs a break too you know? I’m joking, the sun can’t have a break, well actually, since it takes light from the sun about 8 minutes to reach Earth, we probably won’t notice a quick 5-minute break…I hope.

In summary, think about why, think about the outcome, and think about what you can control. Enjoy the ups and downs of life because you’ll never know when serendipity will pay you a visit. So, take care of yourself and ask me for the protein energy ball recipe because I would love to share!