We want to be productive. In fact, you might wake up in the morning with all kinds of enthusiasm for the projects you’re going to get done during the day. 

Now fast forward a few hours, and suddenly you’re wondering where the day went, feeling like you never accomplished anything at all.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The trick is to realize that this isn’t something outside of your control. Things will happen, which derail you, but you’re reaping the fruits of self-sabotage more often than not. You’ve derailed yourself through your own negative self-talk.

How to get past this? Simple! Start with these easy tips:

Listen to Music

It’s hard to get yourself going if your mood is what’s dragging. Thankfully this is a quick fix. Put on some music you love, something fast-paced and catchy for a quick pick-me-up, and watch your energy and productivity soar.

Get up and Move

Like listening to music, getting your body in motion will build your energy levels. Dance around the room, take a brisk walk, or try a few jumping jacks to get the blood flowing. Then tackle your task again, wide-awake and energized.

Look Inside 

Sometimes what you need is some quiet time. When you find your mind racing and unable to concentrate, try meditation to slow things down. Find a quiet place, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing. Take deep breaths, nice and slow, and focus yourself on the present until you feel calm again.

Review What’s Important

Maybe you’re not getting things done because you no longer find the value in your goal. If this is the case, take some time to ask yourself some serious questions about why you’re on this journey. You might need to shift your goal to something else entirely or start by adjusting the outcome to serve your present needs.

Contribute

When all else fails, offer to help someone else. Mentoring is one of those win-win situations where you bring your life skills and experience to help someone who truly needs it. At the same time, you rediscover your passion through the act of teaching others what you know.

Do all this, and it’s good-bye self-sabotage, hello accomplishment. Soon you’ll be more productive than ever! You got this!