Mid Week Slump: 15 Ways to Get Out of a Funk
Do you ever get to Wednesdays and feel like you’re stuck in a mid-week slump?
That dreaded feeling of being halfway through the workweek, yet you’re still so far away from the weekend. Your energy is drained, your motivation is low, and you’re counting down the hours until Friday.
We’ve all experienced that feeling at one point or another, but the good news is that there are ways to shake off the mid-week blues and re-energize yourself.
In this guide, you’ll discover:
- What exactly a mid week slump is so you know if you’re 100% feeling that way
- How to deal with feeling the mid week slump, including ideas for your body and mind, as well as some affordable products for dealing with your emotions
- How to beat the blues at work
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What Is A Mid Week Slump?
A mid-week slump is the feeling of being stuck in a low-energy, unmotivated state during the middle of the workweek. You may feel like you have a lack of focus, decreased productivity, and a general feeling of fatigue or boredom.
It’s a common experience for people who work a typical Monday-to-Friday schedule, but it can be overcome with some simple strategies and mindset shifts.
Is it similar to a mid afternoon slump?
While both a mid-week slump and a mid-afternoon slump can lead to feelings of low energy, they’re two different experiences.
A mid-afternoon slump usually occurs after lunch when your body’s natural energy levels dip, and you may feel sleepy or less alert. This can be due to a poor diet or lack of sleep.
While the causes of mid-week and mid-afternoon slumps are different, some of the ways to counteract them may overlap. For example, taking a short break to move your body or engaging in a mindfulness practice can help to refocus your mind in both cases.
How Do You Get Out of A Mid Week Slump?
Here are some of my top tips to get out of a mid week slump.
Get moving
Take a brisk walk or run to get your blood flowing and boost your energy levels.
Physical activity is a great way to fight a mid-week slump because it releases endorphins, which help to boost your mood.
If you don’t have time to take a walk or run, doing a few minutes of stretching can help to clear your mind. Try to get outside if possible to get some fresh air and sunlight.
Listen to music
Listening to upbeat music can shift your mindset and boost your motivation.
Music has the power to positively affect your mood – have you ever randomly put some good music on and danced around in your bedroom?
Try creating a playlist of your favorite energizing songs and listen to it during your work breaks, or on your way to and from work.
Take a power nap
If you work from home, try taking a power nap for 20 minutes to recharge your batteries and improve your focus.
If you’re in an office, aim to find a quiet space where you can rest without interruptions. Set an alarm so that you don’t oversleep and wake up feeling groggy.
Have a healthy snack
A healthy snack like fruit, nuts, or yogurt keeps your blood sugar levels stable, giving you the energy you need to power through the rest of your day.
Choose a snack that is high in protein and fiber – I like to have a protein bar (one that’s low in sugar) or a protein pudding with some granola.
Talk it out
Connect with a friend or colleague for a quick chat or coffee to break up your day and boost your mood.
Talking with others can give you the energy you need to continue with your working week. Even just a 5-minute chat with someone can make a big difference.
Practice deep breathing
Deep breathing exercises or meditation can calm your mind and reduce stress. Take a few minutes to sit quietly and focus on your breath. If you’re new to meditation, Calm is a great app. I’ve used it for years and there are lots of different meditations on there, as well as soothing music and stories.
Write out your goals
Create a plan of action to stay focused and motivated throughout the week.
Break down your goals into manageable tasks and schedule them into your calendar. You’ll feel more organized and in control of your life.
Take on a new challenge or project
If there’s one thing that’s helped my mental health and self esteem in the past few years it’s taking on new challenges.
New projects can be daunting, but they help you to break out of your routine and feel more motivated.
Choose something that excites you and aligns with your goals – it could be learning to drive, taking up a new hobby, or meeting new people outside of your social circle.
Practice gratitude
Reflect on the positive aspects of your life by taking a few minutes to think about what you’re grateful for.
You can write these things down in a notebook or even start a gratitude journal and make it part of your self-care routine.
Declutter your workspace
Getting organized makes you feel in control. Spend a few minutes decluttering your workspace or create a to-do list to help you stay on track.
You could even add a little greenery or bright colors like yellow and orange to uplift your work environment.
Take a break from social media
Having a break from social media and other distractions reduces your mental clutter.
Turn off notifications on your phone or use an app like Appblock to block distracting websites during your workday. You’ll begin to feel more focused during the day, and you won’t have any pesky notifications to deal with either.
Get outside
Spending time outside and getting some fresh air and sunlight really improves your mood. Try going outdoors during your lunch break or sit outside in a park or garden after work. You’ll be amazed by how much brighter you feel.
Do something creative
Engaging in a creative activity stimulates your mind while reducing stress. Choose an activity that you enjoy, like drawing or reading, and take a short break to engage in it.
Alternatively, you could do this after work – this gives you something to look forward to.
Practice self-care
Practicing self-care after a day at work like having a relaxing bath or getting a massage is great for feeling more refreshed and relaxed. Sometimes, these little things can make a significant difference to how you feel – you could even do some extra pampering activities if you have time!
Reflect on your accomplishments
Reflecting on your accomplishments and celebrating your progress is a brilliant confidence booster. Spend a few minutes reflecting on what you’ve accomplished so far in the week or month, no matter how small, and celebrate your progress.
You could buy yourself a small treat, grab dinner somewhere nice, or go and visit your friends.
FAQs
How do you beat the blues at work?
If you’re feeling low at work, here are some things you can do to improve your mood. First, set a few clear goals of things you want to achieve. These could be work-related or more hobby focused.
Next, take regular breaks throughout the day to recharge your batteries. Go for a short walk, stretch, or do a quick 5-minute meditation.
Additionally, make sure you prioritize self-care. Take care of your physical and mental health by getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and engaging in activities that help you to unwind, such as yoga or pilates.
How do you keep yourself motivated during a mid week slump?
Here are a few things you can do to keep yourself motivated during a mid week slump. Firstly, review your goals and remind yourself of why you’re working towards them. Having a clear sense of purpose can help you to stay motivated.
Next, look for inspiration in books, podcasts, or on YouTube that align with your goals and interests. Reading or listening to something inspiring can shift your mindset to help you make a positive change in your life.
Remember, it’s important to be kind to yourself and give yourself the time and space you need to recharge and refocus.
Use These Tips The Next Time You Feel A Mid Week Slump
Having a mid-week slump is common for many people, but it doesn’t have to derail your productivity or motivation. By implementing the tips in this guide, such as taking breaks, connecting with others, and practicing self-care, you can help yourself to refocus during the workweek.
Remember that beating a mid-week slump is not about perfection or never feeling tired or unmotivated. It’s about finding ways to bounce back, even in the face of challenges. So, the next time you find yourself in a mid-week slump, try some of these handy tips to see what works best for you. With a little effort and self-care, you can get back on track and finish the week strong.
