FROM Languishing TO Loving Life!

Here we all are, facing yet another transition – somewhat out of COVID times yet many of us aren’t feeling jazzed about it. A recent New York Times article on languishing went viral and hits the mark for many. In short it means, “I’m OK but not feeling focused or motivated.” You are not alone if you’re in this place. Find out six steps I suggest taking to move to a place of possibility and action. If you realize you’re stuck, you’re already on the way!

It’s totally OK and normal to languish… for a while.  As quoted in a recent New York Times article, “Languishing is a sense of stagnation and emptiness. It feels as if you’re muddling through your days, looking at your life through a foggy windshield. And it might be the dominant emotion of 2021.”

Staying in this place for too long can be is problematic.  Some of the work I do is helping clients look at their thoughts – then imagine how they might want to think differently. In coaching we look at how thoughts lead to feelings, then action. It’s pretty hard to take action if the right thoughts aren’t there to start. A coach or therapist helps unearth hidden desires, ambitions – and also limiting beliefs that can get in the way.  I suggest these activities to move forward if you’re feeling the blahs.

DO Try This At Home!

  1. Give yourself permission to be OK with how you feel right now.
  2. Use meditation to clear your mind of chatter and distracting thoughts.  
  3. Strive to get exercise outside every day. Maybe combo it with seeing a friend.
  4. Keep a journal. Consider writing down a daily gratitude entry or note of the things you liked doing prior to COVID times.
  5. Take small steps to finding purpose and meaning – one day at a time. Break the stagnation with small, concrete actions.
  6. Engage a coach to empower you to find your voice, vision and direction.  

A lot can be accomplished in a 5 session coaching package to help move to a place of possibility and action.

Posted in

Reed Dewey

Reed is a transitions coach supporting those 50+ to prepare for what's next and turn dreams into reality.