Hopefully I haven’t let it show too much these past few weeks but I’ve been battling some serious fatigue. It’s not because I stayed up late and now I’m just super sleepy. The fatigue I’m referring to would be classified as a clinical syndrome. No matter how much sleep I get, it’s never enough. Coffee, Vitamin B12, Iron, salads, grains…even after voraciously consuming all these supposed energy boosters, I still find myself struggling to get through the day. Now, your energy may not be that severely low, or energy may not be your issue at all. Perhaps you’re just bogged down mentally because you’ve been stuck in the same position and keep getting passed over for promotion. Maybe you’ve been in an unfruitful job search for a long time and you’re wondering if you have the will to keep jumping through all the job search hoops that a modern transition requires.
In short, there is hope. What I’ve found works for me is having a carrot to dangle. You know, a small victory.
I completely understand what this stagnation feels like, and having the desire to achieve a certain result, but not the energy or the will to do what’s needed. Here are a few solutions I’d like to share with you:
1. Put the cookies down and step away from the Pepsi™: These are usually the honored guests at the pity parties we throw ourselves. But the sugar crash they bring actually makes it even harder for us to stay focused and do what it necessary.
2. Pray: Ask God (or the universe, if that’s what you believe in) to help you. If you’re not religious at all, seek wise counsel from a physician, an accountability partner, or trusted friend.
3. Power through: Do it regardless of how you feel. Generally, you’ll feel better once you know you’ve accomplished something that moves you toward your goal. Decide on one thing you need/are going to accomplish each day. Your to-do list does not have to be layers deep.
4. Dangle a carrot: We can get through some of the worst situations in our lives when we can see light at the end of the tunnel. Create short-term, small victories that would give you cause to celebrate. I’m talking about something as small as sending an email or registering for a class/workshop/event. Then allow yourself to take a guilt-free half hour break.
5. Walk away, change your scenery: Or maybe you need to run. Literally. Strap on your running shoes and get your heart pumping. This surge of endorphins can be just what the doctor ordered. It may only be a temporary boost but it will help, especially if you begin to make exercise a habit. (In the spirit of transparency, I’m still working on this one).
There is hope. You can and you will keep pushing. Your victory is entirely too close to let any non-life-ending obstacles deter you. Full disclosure, I’m actively working on items #2, 3, and 4. Which ones are you going to try? What’s been working for you? Perhaps your strategies can help someone else so please share. Thanks!
Written by Brenda M. Cunningham: Career Transition Specialist at Push Career Management, LLC! Whether you are unemployed or ready for more in your career, she builds powerful portfolios that capture attention and coaches professionals to land their ideal positions at their ideal pay. www.pushcareermanagement.com