6 Surefire Ways to Overcome a Work Slump

Does the mere thought of getting to work make you tired? Do tasks that would normally excite you now seem mundane? Do you find yourself getting irritated by office chatter that you would normally find amusing? You may be going through what is known as a work slump.

A work slump is defined by a loss of energy, lack of drive and motivation, feeling irritable, stressed and constantly procrastinating at work. Not to be confused with career fatigue, a more serious condition, work slumps tend to strike towards the end of the year as the seasons begin to take a calmer tone and the burst of energy you received after your summer vacation begins to wear off.

Even though work slumps are almost inevitable in the course of our careers and you are certain to experience them often, below are 6 simple ways to get out of a work slump


1. Take a break: If you've used up your vacation days for the year you can take a 3-4 day weekend off work. It's best to leave home during this timeout as staying at home is not necessarily a break and wouldn't give you the satisfaction and benefits that taking a break brings. Instead of spending your time off on Netflix, opt to go hiking with a friend or two or visit family out of town. Research has proven that a well-spent break will ease your stress, make you happier and more productive.

2. Tweak your morning routine:  A simple change in your morning routine can improve the course of your entire day. Simple tweaks like having a smoothie instead of your morning coffee, waking up 30 minutes earlier to exercise before your shower or even walking to work instead of driving can give you a boost and increase your energy levels for the days' task.

3. Redecorate / de-clutter your workspace: According to Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese practice, everything in your surrounding environment affects your life. It is believed that the way physical objects are placed around your space can attract positive or negative energy or chi. Clear your workstation of unnecessary items that may be draining your energy and redecorate  by adding a few elements that are believed to attract good vibes. Place items like fresh flowers or a small potted plant to attract wealth and prosperity; motivational images (such as a picture of your graduation or an award or even a photograph an industry leader you look up to) to attract fame and reputation and a picture or two of the special people in your life for love and relationships.

4. Re-assess your career goals: This is a good time to re-asses your career goals. Are you where you want to be or have you veered off?  By re-assessing your career goals you can get out of your work conundrum  by developing a plan to get you back on track (if you had veered off) or even starting a new career!

5. Volunteer for a project: If you've been working on the same projects, you are probably bored and in need of a change. Ask your boss to put you on a project that you does not necessarily fit your specialty but its something you can handle.You can also take on a new responsibility in addition to your current workload if you have the time and can handle both.

6. Take a class to learn something new: Enroll in a class to learn something new, maybe a craft or a new language or even a foreign dance. Not only will it give you something to look forward to after work, but it develops your knowledge base and improves you for better by giving you access to new opportunities, meeting new people and making new friends.