Even though the number of people who work for themselves and keep their own hours is increasing, most of us are used to working in a setting determined by others. These days, it’s remote, but the expectation is that we work – more or less – from 9 to 5.

Coupled with COVID fatigue, it may be that not much is getting done in that interval. The company routine and expectations remain, but the peer support – even the office setting – has disappeared, leaving many of us feeling rudderless. Directionless. Unmotivated.

I hear this from my friends and clients. I also hear something different from those who are used to working on their own and keeping their own hours. Their motivation level remains high. They’re just as uncomfortable with the increased restrictions as the rest of us, but they remain energized and active.

The difference may be that the self-employed have been operating on their own terms for a while now, so nothing much has changed from their point of view. The rest of us, on the other hand, haven’t. There wasn’t a replacement system for our business environment ready and tested when COVID hit, and that left a vacuum that we fell into.

Is it any wonder we feel lost?

The antidote to this lack of energy is for us to find a new rhythm – one of our own making. Some of you have already begun. For the rest of us, here are 3 suggestions:

1. Establish a morning routine that supports you in feeling balanced and ready for the day. It can be as short as 10 minutes or as long as an hour. It might be taking your morning coffee to a balcony or sunny part in the room, thinking about what you want to focus on for the day. It might include a meditation and an inspirational thought or quote. Whatever works for you to support you in greeting your day.

2. Plan your day to match your own rhythm. Notice when you’re more energized and when you’re not so energized, and build the things you want and need to do to fit that rhythm. Successful self-starters have learned when they are most productive, and plan their day accordingly, with the important work that requires the most concentration planned for that time, and other, less brain-consuming tasks later on.

3. Find time to have some enjoyment. Whatever that may look like for you. Watching a movie. Going for a run. Doing yoga. Reading. Writing. Zooming. Being a part of something that you enjoy helps you re-energize. It replenishes and relaxes. It even helps you sleep.

You’re the master of your day now. What’s your rhythm?

Rhythm – the pulse of life

Quote of the Week 

“To live is to be musical, starting with the blood dancing in your veins. Everything living has a rhythm. Do you feel your music?”
– Michael Jackson

Announcements 

If you like this article, and would like it delivered to your in-box every Monday morning, sign up here.

Maryanne