With the state of the world, some of us are inclined to huddle under a blanket. And some days, that’s what you might need. Me too. But if you’re finding yourself avoiding important things, getting stuck in a doom scroll, neglecting responsibilities, or wishing you were doing more to fight for [insert your cause of choice here], here are some tips for activating your inner doer. 

Photo by Anh Nguyen of a person with light skin and black clothing and shoes leaping in midair. 

1. Get in the zone. Turn up your favorite energetic tunes that make you want to take action. 
2. Dance. Yes, dance. Move your body, in whatever ways you can and want to. Dance like no one is watching. 
3. Repeat steps one and two as needed until you’re feeling pumped up and ready to do something. 
4. Take a few breaths. Focus on the details of the present moment you’re in. Repeat an affirmation that inspires you, like “I am capable” or “I have the power to make a difference” or “I am so happy to be able to…..” or whatever makes sense for you. Not sure what to use? Think of what your wisest friend would advise you to say. 
5. Take an assertive pose, like a “wonder woman” pose with a confident chest, and repeat that affirmation again, several times. Or just hold the pose and smile, for at last two minutes. Let the pose empower your inner doer. 
6. Do the thing. Break it into bite-sized chunks. After each baby step, do a congratulatory dance/pat on the back/give yourself a proportional treat (praise/candy/tea etc.), and take a few more good breaths or tune into your body somehow. 
7. If you’re still in the zone, ride it and do some more! 
8. When you need to stop, or when you want to, see if you can do something for 2 more minutes. If that isn’t happening, celebrate your wins. And tell the judge in your head to take a break. Be proud of yourself. You’ve done well. 
9. Return to huddling under a blanket, or do something else nourishing. 

Remember that ANY progress is progress. I love when I’m able to tap into that magical flow state, where it feels like I can work forever. And what’s amazing is that we can use mindfulness tools to achieve that state, on command! The trick is breaking the old habits. 

What’s your personal recipe when you need or want to go do something? 

Recent articles from me you might enjoy: 

Enjoy the sun

10 ways your mind is messing with you

Joy as resistance

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