7 Simple Ways to Take Action When Motivation Is Low
7 Simple Ways to Take Action When Motivation Is Low
We’ve all been there, staring blankly at your to-do list, feeling stuck, and waiting for motivation to magically appear. But here's the thing: motivation is a fickle friend. It comes and goes as it pleases. Action, on the other hand? That's where the magic really happens.
When we're feeling unmotivated, it often means our minds are overwhelmed, our energy is drained, or we’re stuck in a cycle of overthinking. Instead of forcing ourselves to be productive, sometimes the best thing we can do is hit pause, reset, and take small, intentional steps.
So, erase the "I'll do it tomorrow" mindset and try these seven simple ways to take action, even when you feel like doing nothing.
1. Meditate for Clarity
A few minutes of meditation can work wonders. It's like hitting the reset button for your mind. Helps you declutter those thoughts and find your focus again. Science shows that mindfulness improves cognitive function, decision-making, and emotional regulation.
2. Swim to Reset Your Mind & Body
Physical movement, especially activities like swimming, can act as a mental reset. It helps regulate stress, increases dopamine, and improves overall mood, perfect for when motivation feels low.
3. Read Non-Fiction for Inspiration
When motivation is low, consuming new ideas can spark creativity. Reading about leadership, personal growth, or entrepreneurship can provide fresh perspectives and inspire you again.
4. Cook a New Recipe for a Change of Pace
Engaging in something hands-on, like cooking and trying a new recipe, is a great way to shift your focus and tap into your creativity. It can also create a sense of accomplishment, helping you build momentum for other tasks.
5. Turn Off Your Phone to Eliminate Distractions
Constant notifications and social media scrolling can drain your energy. A digital detox, or even putting your phone on airplane mode for a few hours, can help you reset and refocus.
6. Try Colouring In a Colouring Book
If you're feeling stuck, it's best to grab some colouring pencils or a paintbrush and let your creativity flow. It's a fantastic way to de-stress and tap into those problem-solving parts of your brain. When motivation dips, creativity can help bring out new energy.
7. Walk Somewhere New for Fresh Perspective
Sometimes, all you need is a change of scenery. Going for a walk somewhere new, exploring a different neighborhood, or simply taking a different route to work. New surroundings can spark fresh perspectives and get those creative juices flowing, helping you move from "stuck" to "inspired."
Sonya Barlow x Karren Brady's Women in Business & Tech
Takeaway
I used to believe that slowing down was inefficient and that I always needed to be on the go, especially as an entrepreneur. But I’ve learnt that stepping back and taking the time to re-evaluate is often what leads to breakthroughs.
Key Piece of Advice
Motivation isn’t the starting point; action is.
By taking small, intentional steps, even if they seem unrelated to your goals, you create momentum. And momentum is what leads to progress.
So What?
As International Women’s Day 2025 approaches, this is the perfect reminder that progress isn’t about waiting for the right moment—it’s about taking action, even when it’s difficult.
Women in leadership, business, and entrepreneurship face unique challenges, but by taking consistent, intentional action, we move closer to real change.
Let’s stop waiting and start doing.
Women in Tech: A Must-Watch Conversation with Brenda Darden Wilkerson
Technology is shaping the future, but who gets to build that future? Women, especially women of color, remain underrepresented in the industry, and if we want real change, rebellion is required.
In a powerful conversation, I sat down with Brenda Darden Wilkerson, CEO of AnitaB.org, to discuss:
How women of color can enter and thrive in tech
The realities of leadership as a woman in technology
Why women need to stop asking for pay rises and demand structural change
What it takes to be a role model, leader, and mentor in tech
Watch the full interview here:
This 20-minute conversation is a must-watch for women in tech who are ready to break barriers, challenge norms, and lead the way for future generations.
Sonya Barlow is an award-winning entrepreneur, presenter and author with over 100K followers. She hosts her self-titled YouTube show "The Sonya Barlow Show", authored the business book "Unprepared to Entrepreneur" and runs a business inclusion consultancy and networking app the "LMF Network". You can work with Sonya for campaigns, content and conversation. Connect via email 📩 - Hello@SonyaBarlow.Co.Uk.