We’ve all had those days where we wake up and feel nothing. No excitement, no motivation—just an endless list of things to do, and zero willpower to actually do them. And if we’re being honest? Sometimes it’s not just one day. Sometimes it’s a whole phase, where you start wondering if you’ll ever get back into your groove.
It’s frustrating because deep down, we want to have our life together. We want that satisfaction of finishing our tasks, planning ahead, and actually enjoying free time without a deadline looming over us. But reality hits, and suddenly we don’t see the point in forcing productivity when we’re just so over it.
So, let’s talk about it. Why do we lose our drive? What’s pulling us into this slump?
Why You’re Losing Your Drive
One thing I’ve noticed? The smallest habits can have such a huge impact on how we feel—sometimes without even realizing it. It’s not always about the big things, like life purpose or ambition. Sometimes, it’s the little, everyday behaviors that silently drain our energy and throw us off track.
The Basics (and Why They Actually Matter)
I know you’ve heard it before, but if you’re still feeling drained, it needs to be said again. Your daily habits? They matter. If you’re not sleeping well, eating trash, or skipping movement, your energy is bound to be off. And no, this isn’t about some strict self-improvement plan—it’s just basic human needs. If you’re constantly running on empty, of course you feel unmotivated.
But what’s even worse? When your schedule is packed with obligations (school, work, responsibilities), and you never set aside time for yourself. That’s not “hustle,” that’s burnout.
Mental Fatigue: When You’re Stuck in the Middle
Here’s something I don’t see talked about enough: that weird state where you’re not resting, but you’re also not working.
Like, you’re staring at your laptop, but your mind is somewhere else entirely. You’re just sitting there, switching between tasks, zoning out, and getting absolutely nothing done. And the worst part? It’s exhausting. You think you’re giving your brain a break, but you’re actually just draining yourself more.
A real break means actually stepping away—not just half-working while half-dissociating. Your brain needs clear separation: either you’re focused, or you’re truly resting. Not this weird, frustrating in-between that leaves you even more tired.
No Rituals, No Spark
If your entire routine is just waking up, scrolling, forcing yourself through responsibilities, then crashing at the end of the day—you’re missing something.
A day without small joys, little indulgences, or routines that make life feel special is just… dull. It’s no wonder motivation disappears when there’s nothing to look forward to.
Lack of Social Energy
Even if you’re the most introverted introvert to ever exist, social interaction matters. I don’t mean forcing yourself to go out every weekend, but even simple human connections—like chatting with a friend or having a lighthearted conversation—can completely shift your energy.
When you isolate yourself too much, your world starts to feel smaller. And when life starts feeling small, it’s hard to find motivation for anything.
Lack of Gratitude = Lack of Perspective
When you stop noticing the good things, everything starts feeling pointless. You don’t have to be some overly positive person 24/7, but training yourself to notice small joys throughout the day can seriously change your outlook. The little things—a perfect cup of coffee, a song that makes you feel something, sunlight streaming through your window—actually matter more than you think.
How to Romanticize Every Day Like That Girl
Okay, now that we’ve covered the why, let’s get into the how. Because getting out of a slump isn’t just about productivity—it’s about making life feel good again.
Step One: Set the Vibe, Not Just Goals
Forget this whole “find your one passion” thing. Instead, ask yourself: What kind of vibe do I want my life to have?
Think about the IT girl aesthetic—the Pinterest version of the life you want. What does she do? How does she carry herself?
Maybe she’s the effortlessly cool girl who always looks put-together. Maybe she’s the creative type, always reading, painting, and making time for art. Or maybe she’s the social butterfly who has a packed schedule full of brunches, events, and spontaneous adventures.
Once you have the vision, break it down. Instead of overwhelming yourself with vague goals, set small monthly ones:
✨ The “IT Girl” Who Has Her Life Together ✨
- Plans a fun social outing every month (brunch, club night, road trip—something to look forward to)
- Has a gym routine that feels good, not forced
- Curates her wardrobe and puts effort into her appearance for herself
- Finds time for creative hobbies and self-improvement
- Has her signature drink (matcha, iced coffee, or whatever makes her feel chic)
The point? Make your life feel intentional. Like you’re crafting a version of yourself that you love. And don’t worry if your vibe changes over time – that’s the fun part. If you notice at the end of the month that you want to change things up, then please do so and explore this side of yours.
Step Two: Prioritize Hobbies Over Mindless Distractions
If you feel like you have “no time” for hobbies, be real with yourself. You probably have time—you’re just spending it on autopilot activities that don’t actually make you happy.
Pick one thing you’ve always wanted to do—painting, yoga, learning a new language, photography—and just start. Try it for a just few weeks, and then decide if its something for you. Don’t worry ahead. better you “loose” time in trying a new hobby that might not be what you’ve imagined instead of loosing all that time scrolling on your phone. The point isn’t to be perfect, it’s to have something that brings you joy outside of work or school.
Step Three: Watch More Movies (Yes, Really)
There’s something about movies that makes life feel magical. Watching a beautifully filmed movie can actually shift your perspective on how you see your own life.
Maybe it inspires you to start dressing differently, to go on spontaneous coffee shop dates with yourself, or to start journaling like the main character you are. Movies romanticize life in a way that makes you want to do the same.
Step Four: Create Small Daily Obsessions
The easiest way to make your day feel exciting? Have small things that you look forward to—simple, everyday moments that feel like little treats. It could be that small sip of coffe that makes you start the day just right, or a series you always look forward too watching in the evening, or your favorite cup of tea that you could drink anytime.
But here’s where it gets even better: use these moments as rewards to keep you motivated throughout the day.
Instead of dragging yourself through tasks, turn them into a game. Every work block, every errand, every gym session gets you closer to something you actually want.
- “Once I finish this study session, I get to make my favorite matcha.”
- “After I check off my work tasks, I can take a long, hot shower, put on my coziest pajamas, and watch my favorite show.”
- “If I power through this workout, I get to unwind with my favorite show and my go-to tea.”
This way, your tasks stop feeling like chores and start feeling like part of a cycle that naturally leads to something rewarding. Instead of dreading responsibilities, you start looking forward to the little things that come after them. And honestly? That shift makes all the difference.
Step Five: Write Everything in Your To-Do List
Even the smallest tasks. Checking things off—even if it’s just “do your skin care” for daily tasks or “send that email”—tricks your brain into feeling productive. It’s a game-changer.
Step Six: Build a Routine That Works for You
Routines are often underestimated, yet they play a crucial role in maintaining our physical and mental health. A lack of routine can signal to our bodies that there is no stable foundation, leaving us feeling anxious without an apparent reason. Setting a fixed morning and evening routine will tell your body to wake up or to relax.
And o crazy 5AM morning routines here—just a structure that makes you feel good.
- A set wake-up time so mornings aren’t chaotic
- A go-to nighttime wind-down that actually helps you sleep
- Something small in your day that feels like self-care
Remember not to rush and add too many things at once. Start simple and build up from there.
Final Thoughts: You Are the Main Character
At the end of the day, getting out of a slump isn’t about forcing productivity—it’s about making life feel good again. Add little joys. Romanticize the small moments. Turn your routines into rituals.
Because when you start enjoying life, motivation naturally follows. ✨
See my latest blog <3: Who Are You, Really? Exploring the Fluidity of Self – RomComToMe