As lock-down rules ease and vaccination rates rise, people are gradually returning to work and living more social lives.
The Pandemic has taken its toll on people’s well-being and left many feeling drained, exhausted and devoid of purpose.
Sociologists and the Psychology community have identified this feeling as “Languishing”. It means “the absence of well-being”; neither feeling ‘depressed’ nor ‘flourishing’. It’s the mid-way point between the two; generally feeling “blah”!
Languishing interferes with your energy and motivation, it’s greyscale rather than colour . It can leave you feeling joyless and aimless. Left unchecked for a long time it can put you at greater risk of getting depressed, feeling unable to cope with work, business decisions and interactions.
So, how will you know if you’re languishing, flourishing or somewhere in between?
Do you wake up ready to start your day or would you rather go back to sleep?
Have you lost your sense of purpose?
Does much of your day tend to feel meaningless?
Is it difficult to maintain your focus and concentration?
If you’re still not sure here are some helpful definititions:
Depression – is the loss of interest and joy in both life and work
Burnout – this is job specific depression
Languishing – is the middle ground between the two
If you’re languishing, the idea of returning work and getting back to a normal routine may feel overwhelming and challenging.
Here are some simple things you can do to start thriving again:
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Firstly, name it and validate how you’re feeling and recognise it’s OK.
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Research shows acknowledging small moments is also important for well-being.
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Appreciate an event or activity in the moment, sharing tiny victories and noticing the good things around you.
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Share how you’re feeling and support others who may feel the same. In giving others support, you’ll be surprised how much your own advice giving can be useful for yourself.
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Self compassion is vital. Don’t be too hard on yourself; you’re not being lazy.
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Take proper time out away from your usual day to day activities to reinvigorate your energy levels.
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Ask for help. Speak to your Manager about the support you may need while you re-adjust to returning to work.
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Create a daily or weekly gratitude journal to capture highlights and positive steps towards flourishing again.
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Perform one act of kindness a day can have a powerful effect.
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Strengthen relationships with colleagues at work and remind yourself how your job contributes to a greater good.
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Get feedback from people your know and trust about your strengths and qualities.
Coaching gives you the tools needed to help yourself now and in the future.
If you feel you’re no longer in the right job and are struggling to identify your next steps, get in touch. I offer a free 30 minute Career Conversation to listen to your situation and discuss how Career Coaching can help. Click here and complete your details to request a date and time that works for you.
Still not sure? Have a look at what some of my clients have said about working with me here.