How to Get Out of a Slump

By Leo Babauta

Even the most motivated of us -- you, me, Tony Robbins -- can feel unmotivated at times. In fact, sometimes we get into such a slump that even thinking about making positive changes seems too difficult.

But it's not hopeless: With some small steps, baby ones in fact, you can get started down the road to positive change.

Yes, I know, it seems impossible at times. You don't feel like doing anything. I've been there, and in fact I still feel that way from time to time. But I've learned a few ways to break out of a slump, here are some of them.

1. One Goal. Whenever I've been in a slump, I've discovered that it's often because I have too much going on in my life. I'm trying to do too much. And it saps my energy and motivation. It's probably the most common mistake that people make: they try to take on too much, try to accomplish too many goals at once. You cannot maintain energy and focus (the two most important things in accomplishing a goal) if you are trying to do two or more goals at once. It's not possible - I've tried it many times. You have to choose one goal, for now, and focus on it completely. I know, that's hard. Still, I speak from experience. You can always do your other goals when you've accomplished your One Goal.
2. Find inspiration. Inspiration, for me, comes from others who have achieved what I want to achieve, or who are currently doing it. I read blogs, books, magazines. I Google my goal.

stevenbrown's picture
I agree with all of these comments, as well as joining a new group or club. Check out the documentary film 'Gotta Dance' about a senior citizen hip-hop dance troupe, who certainly will motivate you to get out of a slump. They have a website www.gottadancethemovie.com
Ads by Google