Change It Up – for when you need a little extra inspiration

Some days I need a little extra inspiration. There are days when the to do list is never-ending, the pile of work waiting is overwhelming and the feeling inside is in serious need of lifting. It’s hard to think clearly and getting things done seems impossible. Do you have days like this? Or maybe weeks?

At those times I search for a little spark of motivation outside myself. It could be an image, a word, a song. It may be a quote, a Calm Space article or a whole book. I look for a different perspective, another point of view, something uplifting.

If you’re having one of those days when getting things done seems too much to ask, or your space is crowding in, or your head just isn’t in the game, try changing it up.

You know the time when George from Seinfeld decided to do everything opposite to his instincts, and things suddenly go right for him? Try a little of that. I said a little!

On the “don’t feel like sitting at the desk doing admin” days, I change it up. I turn on some music, push back my chair, stand up and file, restock supplies or even read standing up. It works to reset my mood and get me motivated.

Stuck in traffic, late to collect someone from the airport, I could have fumed, raged. I could have become frustrated, angry with myself for not foreseeing this. That old demon, the negative self talk could have made an appearance. “You’re a hopeless host/friend/organiser. Can’t even get there on time”. Instead, I assured myself my friend was a grown up and would understand. I wound down the window, let the fresh air in, turned up the radio, enjoyed the autumn sunshine and sang my heart out, loud.

Recently during one of those moments when I was feeling negative and recognised the need to change, I chose not to moan to my social media friends. Instead I Tweeted, “Tell me something wonderful.” What came back was a flood of happy stories, kind words and virtual hugs. I can’t tell you how wonderful it felt, how much it inspired me. I’m grateful to all those who responded, and hope they know what a difference they made.

One more thing. When you make that switch, make a mental note while you’re at it. File that new feeling away, along with the steps that got you there, just in case you ever need to get back again.

After all, as one of my favourite quotes says,

Nothing is a waste of time if you use the experience wisely, Rodin