We've all been there: There are tasks to complete, things to do and people to reach out to, but you lack any motivation to get going. Regardless of whether you're looking for a job after leaving the military, are home raising a family, in school or you've been working for a while, finding ways to get inspired is crucial.
Here are some ideas:
1. Watch TED Talks.
Look for TED Talks that have good viewership (50,000+ views) and are on topics you find interesting. The talks don't all have to be about empowering, "you can do it!" themes. You might find it inspiring to hear other people's career stories or learn something new about technology, the world, a community or history. Learning can often motivate us to get going.
2. Read or Listen to Audio Books.
Along the lines of No. 1, learning through reading (or listening to an e-book) can give you new ideas, a fresh perspective or new information that motivates you to pursue the new job or approach your work differently.
3. Participate in Online Courses.
I'm a huge consumer of online learning. I love how easy it is to watch a course, take the quiz or complete the exercises and know my knowledge or skills on that topic has been expanded. LinkedIn Learning comes packed with hundreds of courses on topics ranging from how to exit the military, to learning project management, to having an honest conversation with your boss ... and many more! Udemy, MasterClass and others also offer online learning that's consumable, cost effective and will enrich your education experience.
4. Do Something Creative.
Coloring, drawing, floral arranging or writing can help you tap into that side of your brain that is stimulated by creativity. Even if your job isn't inherently creative or you're in a job search, doing something creative can be a great way to find motivation for other tasks.
5. Move.
Today, most of us spend so much time behind desks and computers that we forget there's a whole beautiful world outside. When you're feeling uninspired, consider walking around the block, riding your bike or otherwise being in nature, moving. A 15-minute walk can help you feel more invigorated than three cups of coffee.
6. Talk to a Friend or Mentor.
Find someone in your network with whom you can share your lack of enthusiasm. Consider a friend or mentor who knows your background and future goals, has experience navigating the ups and downs of a civilian career and can offer insight and support.
Your boss may or may not be the right choice here; always consider whether sharing your boredom at work, for instance, could lead your boss to question your commitment. If you decide that your boss would be a good listener, then confide to them at your level of comfort and consider the suggestions they offer in earnest.
7. Change Your Environment.
If you have flexibility in where you work, consider a different room or place to set up your computer for the day. An outside patio or neighborhood coffee shop can do wonders to inspire you. Or if you're in an office, maybe borrow a conference room or set up in the break room to get the change of scenery you need.
8. Do Anything.
Even a small, insignificant task (change out the laundry, file your email inbox messages, plan next week's meals and accompanying grocery list) can help motivate you to do those larger tasks that need to get done.
9. Help Someone.
When I feel less than motivated, I find that helping someone else picks me back up. Consider mentoring someone just exiting the military, offer to help someone learn LinkedIn if you've gotten good at it or offer to be the shoulder for someone to vent to. By being of service, you take the focus off your needs and lack of motivation, and shift to helping, which is what you did so much of in the military.
10. Give Yourself Grace.
No one feels motivated and inspired all the time. Everyone hits a roadblock, mentally and emotionally, from time to time. Resist the urge to get angry or frustrated with yourself and just breathe into it. Know that with time, the feelings will pass, and you'll be back to yourself, ready to get going. But for now, breathe, call a friend and honor the experience.
The author of "Success After Service: How to Take Control of Your Job Search and Career After Military Duty" (2020) and "Your Next Mission: A personal branding guide for the military-to-civilian transition" (2014), Lida Citroën is a keynote speaker and presenter, executive coach, popular TEDx speaker and instructor of multiple courses on LinkedIn Learning. She regularly presents workshops on personal branding, executive presence, leadership communication and reputation risk management.
A contributing writer for Military.com, Lida is a passionate supporter of the military, volunteering her time to help veterans transition to civilian careers and assist employers who seek to hire military talent. She regularly speaks at conferences, corporate meetings and events focused on military transition.
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