Beat the meh – Part 3
Over the past two weeks we have been looking at our experience of languishing and what can be done, from the perspective of Positive Psychology, to enhance our sense of flourishing. To recap, you might be languishing if you feel joyless, somewhat empty, and unfulfilled, aimless, unfocused, and stagnant. Not completely depressed or burnt out, but not close to your absolute best. If you were to put it on a scale, it could look something like this:
The tips we’ve been sharing is based on the model of psychological flourishing set forth by Martin Seligman (known as the PERMA model) and this week we look at the final two components:
1. Connect to something bigger than yourself
We derive the most meaning from our tasks, actions, and responsibilities when we see them contributing to something bigger than ourselves. Our own comfort only matters up to a certain point. When the basic things are in place, humans have an inherent need to contribute. There is a reason why the Nazis tortured people in the concentration camps by having them move rocks around for no apparent reason: when we do things for no reason, we lose our sense of meaning and are much more likely to lose hope and perish.
When we are aware of how our contribution makes a difference in the greater scheme of things, this becomes a powerful source of encouragement. When our presence at work, at home, in our teams, communities or at church makes a difference and we can find meaning in what we do, this keeps us going. It feels good to be recognized for our contribution, but what we do can often go unnoticed. It is therefore important to not get fixated on the praise and recognition; when the contribution itself is the reward you are on the right track.
If you currently feel like you’re treading water and not making an impact, look for environments in which you could get involved. Alternatively, you could start by reframing the things you currently keep yourself busy with – instead of focusing on the tasks you do, look at the ways in which these contributions make a difference in the greater scheme of things. If you are having a positive impact on one person, that is something to take pride in.
2. Get moving
For most people, working from home has resulted in a much more sedentary lifestyle. We do not move as much as we did before. When we do not move, physically and mentally, we become stagnant and run the risk of getting stuck. Many have been able to maintain a fitness routine through the past year, but if you have not and are feeling particularly frustrated and meh, now is the perfect time to get moving.
If you are somebody that gets intimidated by going to the gym and fitness in general, start small. Start with walking. Most smartphones come with a built-in pedometer (step counter) so set yourself the target of walking at least 3 000 steps per day. Once you start hitting your target, up that to 5 000 steps per day. Challenge yourself and see if you can consistently get to 10 000 steps each day. If walking is too easy, try jogging. You can always up the intensity once you reach a level that feels too comfortable. The fact of the matter is, you are much less likely to feel mentally stuck and frustrated when you are physically active. Whatever you do, don’t just sit there. Do whatever you can to start moving more, each day.
The Takeaway
Every single one of us is here for a reason. Take the time to better understand and uncover the contribution you are making. If you feel like you are not contributing, find a space where your impact is needed. You don’t have to change the world to find meaning, but you could possibly change someone’s world. Also, if you’ve been physically stagnant for a while find a way to be more active. Keep it simple, but don’t put if off any longer.
In closing
Our approaches towards individual and team coaching, employee engagement and culture are all based on the tenets of Positive Psychology, with the aim of helping you, your team and organisation flourish. If you find yourself languishing, get in touch at hello@purposeworks.co.za. We would love to help you move your dial.
At PurposeWorks we are all about Making You and Your Work Rock. Our focus is on Organisational Health and Design, Employee Centered Culture, Leadership Development and Performance Coaching. For more information on how we can help you create a work environment that rocks, develop a great team, become an inspiring leader or unlock your personal excellence talk to us at info@purposeworks.co.za.
