How to Stay Motivated During Difficult Times

Life has a way of testing us. Sometimes, motivation feels easy like riding a wave. Other times? It’s like trying to push a boulder uphill in flip-flops. Lately, I’ve been stuck in that second category, wondering if I’d ever shake off the slump. If you’ve been there too, you’re not alone.

This isn’t about forcing positivity or pretending everything’s fine. It’s about what actually helped me get through when motivation felt nonexistent.

The Reality Check

Some days just suck. Plain and simple. There were mornings when even getting out of bed felt like running a marathon. I used to beat myself up over it until I realized that losing motivation doesn’t make you weak.

The goal isn’t to be endlessly motivated. It’s to find ways to keep going even when you’re not.

What Actually Helps

Start Tiny (Like, Stupidly Tiny)

When big goals felt impossible, I shrank them down to microscopic wins. Making my bed. Drinking a glass of water. Taking a five-minute walk. These might not be Instagram-worthy, but they add up when everything else feels overwhelming.

Find Your People

You know what’s worse than feeling unmotivated? Feeling unmotivated and alone. I started joining online communities (Reddit has some surprisingly supportive corners), and it helped just knowing other people were in the same boat. Sometimes, just reading “hey, me too” makes all the difference.

My Daily Survival Kit

Morning Baby Steps

• No phone for the first 15 minutes (still failing at this, but trying)
• One small task I know I can finish
• A moment to breathe before jumping into the chaos of the day

Physical Stuff That Actually Works

I’m not going to tell you to go for a 5 AM run (because… no), but moving your body helps. Some days my “workout” is just dancing badly in my room. Other days, it’s a short walk or stretching while watching TV. Whatever works.

When Everything Feels Like Too Much

When I hit rock-bottom motivation, these are my go-to survival tactics:

• Watch funny dog videos (science says laughter boosts serotonin, and I believe it)
• Text a friend, even if it’s just “today sucks”
• Give myself permission to have a bad day without guilt (but dont overdo it)

The Truth About Progress

Some days, I take steps forward. Other days, I slide backward. And most days? I’m just trying to stay afloat. And you know what? That’s okay.

Progress isn’t always about climbing mountains sometimes, it’s just about holding on.

P.S If you’re really struggling, please know it’s okay to reach out for professional help. You don’t have to do this alone.