Mid-year blues, how to get out of the funk you are in?

As winter sets in and we reach the midpoint of the year, many individuals experience a sense of being overwhelmed and feeling unaccomplished. However, this juncture presents an opportune moment to reevaluate and realign your vision and goals for the remainder of the year. It's also crucial to take some time out for yourself during this period. Feeling the mid-year blues is common, but there are several strategies you can employ to get out of the funk. Here are some suggestions:

·       Reflect and Realign:

Take some time to reflect on your goals and priorities. Evaluate if your current path aligns with your values and aspirations. Look back on everything you told yourself you would do and, if necessary, make adjustments or set new goals that will excite and motivate you. There is nothing wrong with changing the dates of your goals, just reevaluate them on how you can make them work.

·       Break It Down: Often your mid-year blues is from you having set a higher expectation to what you wanted to achieve and you know now that it can’t be done. Firstly, break your larger goals into smaller ones and write down what you have achieved so far. Secondly, write down the tasks that you need to do now to get there. Remember to focus on one task at a time, celebrating each small accomplishment along the way. This can help you regain a sense of momentum.

·       Self-Care should be number one:  Self-care is a deeply individual practice, as it varies from person to person. Factors such as traumas and mental health conditions influence the selection of appropriate steps to enhance your self-care routine. It is essential to recognize and prioritize the strategies that best cater to your unique needs and circumstances. An effective self-care plan should encompass various aspects to promote overall well-being. It should focus on stress reduction, effective time management, relaxation techniques, mindfulness practices, overcoming procrastination, fostering assertiveness, and developing healthy habits. By incorporating these elements into your self-care routine, you can enhance your physical, mental, and emotional wellness. Taking care of yourself can boost your mood and overall well-being. If you want to read more, check out another article we have here.

·       Get Support: This is a very hard thing to say to people because it may feel like you have failed if you have to go to someone else for help. However, reaching out to friends, family, or a support network can help with new ideas or motivate you to change your goals more effectively. Get Support could also mean thinking about ways to improve your business with outsourcing and finding a VA or agency to help. Assess what you are feeling and what your concerns are and speak to someone you trust.

·       Set Exciting Challenges: Ok, you may be thinking, I already am in a ‘funk’ What could more challenges do? Well, introducing new challenges or learning opportunities into your routine can help reignite your enthusiasm and sense of growth. Explore a new hobby, take up a course, or set personal challenges that push you outside of your comfort zone.

·       You should always Celebrate!: We often forget all the things that we have achieved and think about the things that we haven’t. Maybe you need to take a moment to acknowledge your achievements and milestones, no matter how small. Recognising your progress can boost your self-confidence and motivation to keep going.

·       Incorporate Positivity: Surround yourself with positivity in all aspects of your life. Seek out inspirational books, podcasts, or motivational content that uplifts your spirits. Practice the art of gratitude by focusing on the things you are thankful for in your life. Cultivating a positive mindset can help shift your perspective and increase your spirit.

·       Connect with others: As a business owner who works from home, physical socialising doesn’t happen often. However, engaging in meaningful conversations, volunteering, or joining clubs and organisations can provide a sense of belonging and purpose. “Love is our true destiny. We do not find the meaning of life by ourselves alone - we find it with another.” ― Thomas Merton, Love and Living

·       Plan Breaks or Getaways: Schedule breaks or plan a vacation to recharge and rejuvenate. Taking time away from your routine can help you gain a fresh perspective and return with renewed energy and motivation.

·       If nothing is working, seek professional help: If you find that the mid-year blues persist and significantly impact your daily life, it may be beneficial to seek support from a mental health professional. They can provide guidance and strategies tailored to your specific needs.

Every individual's journey is distinct, and it's completely normal to experience both ups and downs along the way. It's important to regularly pause and reflect on how you can improve and grow. Be patient with yourself and concentrate on taking small steps towards rekindling your motivation and finding joy. Initiate the process of overcoming your current funk today, and you'll pave the way for a more fulfilling week ahead..