A lack of motivation is really difficult to overcome. Some days I just want to go back to bed and quit everything. But this is what I have found to help me get through those bleak and hopeless moments:
1. Pray
Whenever I want to give up on life and slink back into bed to have a pity party, I make myself get on my knees and pray. I have found this quote by Abraham Lincoln to be true:
"I have been driven many times upon my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had no where else to go."
And this one by religious leader Gordon B. Hinckley:
"If life gets too hard to stand, kneel."
In prayer I ask for the motivation to accomplish the things I need to do. I pray for hope and faith in God's plan. I pray for peace. I tell God how I'm feeling and ask Him for help, not only to get through the day, but to enjoy it.
Hard things don't automatically disappear after praying. I still have to do the things I don't want to do. But prayer gives me a quiet peace and power. And somehow, I get through the day.
2. Talk to someone
Yes, no one else understands exactly what you're going through. And yes, no one can make everything better. But you're wrong when you think that nobody cares.
They do. Parents. Siblings. Children. Friends. They care.
Honestly, I never want to talk to someone else when I hate life and want to give up on everything. Usually it's the last thing that I want to do. But most times (after I pray for help) someone calls or texts me anyway. And if not, I just text a friend or call my parents. Sometimes I don't talk about the hard day I'm having. Sometimes I do. But those conversations ALWAYS make me feel better.
I believe God designed relationships as a give-and-take balancing effort. We support our loved ones through hard times, and they'll be there for us too. Don't be afraid to receive help and love when you need it. That is what relationships are for.
3. Count your blessings
Instead of filling your mind with how much crappier and lamer your life could get, think instead about what you love in your life. What are you grateful for? For me that list usually includes sunshine, chocolate oranges, chocolate-covered strawberries, and chocolate-extreme blizzards at Dairy Queen. Oh yeah, and family, friends, God's tender mercies, health, nature and my faith.
When I actually sit down and write what I'm grateful for, I can fill pages. Even on the worst of days, I have SO much to be happy and thankful for. Life is wonderful and God is good. I forget that a lot.
Some days are extremely challenging. I hate those days. But these three things have gotten me through the worst of the worst. Pray. Talk to someone. And count your blessings. Bad days come to an end; but you can always do something to make your day better.
