I’d like to admit that I lose momentum quite frequently in the work environment. I’m not talking about huge shifts, but days in which I feel like my productivity has just gone down considerably. And when I lose work momentum, its hard to get back in the zone. I’ve tried reading a few excerpts from my favorite spiritual or business books, watching an inspirational movie, and even going back to hear a Tony Robbins CD (he can get a person pumped!).

So its definitely hard to swing back, I will admit that. And I will also admit that what has helped me the most is putting my attention into simple non-work tasks. Tasks that require little creative and thinking power. Here are a few examples of what I do:

    Cleaning - Whether its my office, bedroom, or kitchen - I dive into the clutter head first and start putting things away. And if I feel that work is still on my mind, I place my direct attention into the scrubbing or dish washing. Make the task that I’m doing the most important and hard thing I have on my plate.
    Cooking - If you only know how to make one dish, make it. And if you know more, pick the one you like the most. Even if you’re at the office, making a small salad or cutting up some fruits is perfect.
    Fixing - My absolute favorite is fixing. I generally have a list of things that my family has compiled since they have deemed me the handy man. So I start with the top of the list and work my way down. It doesn’t matter how much I get done, as long as my attention is directly on the drilling, wiring, etc.

All these items are great for me because I have to place very little thought into it. Its just a remedial task. Some people like gardening, others like walking, and my friends like playing sports. Regardless of what it is, tasks like this can actually provide alot in return: appreciation for stillness and feeling of accomplishment.

Momentum is something that comes in swings and when its not flowing your way, it feels like an eternity before you feel its coming back in your direction. So admit to yourself that momentum is lost, dive into some thoughtless tasks, and then try getting back into work.

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