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Does anyone else get motivation swings? (lemmy.ml)

submitted 2 years ago by ster@lemmy.ml to c/asklemmy@lemmy.ml

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I'm currently preparing for exams which are very important to me. Some days I can work for 6 hours or more without stopping and I get loads done and feel great about it. Unfortunately some days I get up and I can't bear to work.

On bad days, I feel like I can't focus on anything, and no matter how much it stresses me out, my brain just refuses to put any effort in. I have no motivation and just feel like going to sleep or giving up and doing something to waste time.

Generally I find if I work a lot one day the next day is more likely to be a bad day.

Does anyone else have this? How do you prevent this or at least cope with it?

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[–] space_of_eights@lemmy.ml 11 points 2 years ago (1 children)

Speaking as a programmer who inherited a few frustrating projects: yes I do!

Here's a few tips: be outside for a bit. Go on a walk, or even better in my case, a long distance run. You'll hopefully be able to work with renewed focus.

Also, if you can, be sure to work in a well-ventilated room. I worked in several offices with bad air quality, which was detrimental to my productivity. Currently my office has actual windows that open and which has actual temperature control. I am less tired at the end of the day while having done a lot more.

Finally, try to get as few distractions when you need to focus. Switch off notifications on your phone or desktop and use noise cancelling headphones if you have any. Music may or may not help you focus. That is a personal thing.

[–] ster@lemmy.ml 4 points 2 years ago

I do try to get out every day, sometimes it helps but sometimes it makes me feel more worn out.

I'll try keeping my window open a bit more often.

I don't think the distractions are the problem, on good days I'm motivated enough to keep away from the distractions. On the bad days I can force myself to keep staring at the work but my brain just wanders or I just stare into space.