For many the past few months have felt a bit like groundhog day, as though nothing changes and we’re stuck in this small world. Our lifestyle became more limited, and life in general became more uncertain. Now as we start to emerge back into the wider world there are still many uncertainties. As much as many Vets have looked forward to going back to work, the transition for some is proving to be harder than expected. Life is not the same and we’re not sure it ever will be.
How do you stay motivated when there are still so many dark clouds hanging over the horizon? Here are our tips:
For much of March, April and May the only thing that was seemingly newsworthy was Covid-19. Everyday people were bombarded with statistics of how many people were sick and dying. Let’s face it that’s not exactly uplifting news. While initially it may have been of interest, and there’s the recognition that the effects of the pandemic are far from over, most people are feeling really fatigued with being bombarded with gloom and doom on a daily basis. It’s especially difficult for those who are typically proactive, used to fixing things or finding solutions to be told stay at home and do nothing. And while it may have been frustrating the reality is that some things are beyond our control. Dwelling on them only feeds the frustration.
While restricting regulations and the impacts of the pandemic may be far beyond our control, what is within our control is our response to circumstances. Getting frustrated or angry may feel like the righteous thing to do, but in reality is quite counterproductive. Making the best of the circumstances, despite not liking them is when you start to find opportunities. In fact, it’s often adverse situations that give rise to creative thinking, innovation or the opportunity for something new. Had life not changed those opportunities may have been missed. Learning something new, or achieving something you hadn’t before has an amazing way of motivating you once again.
The past few months have been an emotional time. People have expressed anger, fear, frustration, and have criticised government and their communities. But there have also been amazing acts of kindness and showing empathy to others. Some people have lost their jobs or businesses, others have lost loved ones. If you’re healthy that’s the first thing to be grateful for. If you have family, that’s another. If you have the opportunity to work, that’s a third. But gratitude can also start with the small things. Like being able to enjoy a cup of tea in the morning, being able to relax with a good book, having a long phone conversation with your elderly mum. When you make a conscious effort to practice gratitude, it highlights how much you have in your life rather than what you’re missing, and that in itself is motivating.
Now while we can make the effort to become motivated again, it’s also good to recognise that some days it’s harder than others. That’s OK, allow yourself those moments, as long as it’s just a moment and doesn’t become days or weeks. Instead look up, look around you and find something good to focus on.
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