Finding Motivation in the Face of Grief
by Laura Clipson
• Published 17/07/2023
Grief is a natural response to loss, and it can be an incredibly challenging and overwhelming experience. It can be difficult to find motivation when grieving the death of a loved one; you may experience feelings of hopelessness and lose interest in your day-to-day life. Grief can also cause feelings of emotional and physical exhaustion, so you lack the energy to do anything. This blog post will explore how it is possible to find motivation in the face of grief.
It’s important to understand that grief is a normal and necessary process, which you must allow yourself to go through before you can find your motivation again. Allow yourself to feel the pain and sadness caused by your loss, as well as any other emotions that may surface. This is an essential step in the grieving process.
Taking care of yourself is crucial during times of grief, but can also be a difficult thing to do when grieving. Prioritise activities such as exercise, eating healthily, getting enough sleep, and spending time in nature. Engaging in activities that promote physical, emotional and mental wellbeing will help you create a solid foundation for finding motivation.
Establishing a daily routine can help to create a sense of stability and structure during a turbulent time, which can help to reduce uncertainty and enhance motivation. Try to plan your days with a balance of activities that meet your physical, emotional and mental needs. Create a routine that suits you, and don’t try to fit too many things in at first, or you will be overwhelmed.
When motivation feels elusive, start small by setting achievable goals. Break down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Even the smallest accomplishments should be celebrated, as they can provide a sense of progress and help to boost your motivation. As you regain your energy and motivation, you can gradually increase the size of your goals.
Finding a sense of meaning and purpose can be a powerful motivator, whether it’s pursuing a hobby, contributing to a cause or volunteering. Reflect on the values, passions or causes that are significant to you, and consider engaging in activities that align with these aspects of your life.
If you’re struggling, reach out for support from friends, family or professionals. Grief can be incredibly isolating, but connecting with others who understand and empathise can provide comfort and encouragement. You could join a support group, seek therapy, or discuss your feelings with a trusted friend or family member.
Remember, it’s perfectly natural to feel unmotivated when you’re grieving. Working through grief takes time, and if you don’t feel like doing anything, then that’s fine; it’s OK to not be OK. Be patient with yourself; the motivation will come in time, especially if you follow the above advice. The important thing is to take care of yourself; the rest will follow.
Thank you for reading.
For more resources on understanding and dealing with grief, why not take a look at one of our previous articles:
5 Books to Help You Deal with Grief and Loss
5 Instagram accounts that will help you understand grief