Getting out of a rut
Photography by Danielle Ann Rose @bydanielleannrose
A rut is defined as a habit or pattern of behaviour that has become dull and unproductive but is hard to change
If you ever find yourself in a rut it’s important to remember that everyone experiences this from time to time and it’s not something to feel guilty or shameful about. Be gentle with yourself as you begin to make the changes necessary to feel refreshed and excited about life again
When we first come to realise that we’ve fallen into a rut, it can feel heavy, almost like we are stuck there and even just the thought of trying to get out feels exhausting, but the beauty of that moment is that now it’s in our awareness, we have the ability to change things. When we recognise that we’re feeling listless and unexcited, we are given the opportunity to shift our energy and redirect it into creating something beautiful and exciting
So, how do you get out of a rut?
Forgive yourself. It’s important not to beat yourself up over how long you felt this way or how long it’s taken you to do something about it. Give yourself grace and choose something different
Declutter your mind. When we think about all the things we need to get done it can quickly become overwhelming and when we feel like that, we end up not knowing where to begin and do nothing instead. By brain dumping everything overflowing our mind into a journal or blank piece of paper we can see things clearly for what they are. It may be a to-do list or emotions being expressed, it can be whatever you need it to be, just allow your thoughts to run through your pen and out of your mind
Cleaning the space around you can also help to declutter your mind. Even if you aren’t thinking about the fact that your clothes need to be hung back in the cupboard, or the floor needs vacuuming, subconsciously it’s taking up space in your mind. Energetically it’s heavy and by simply cleaning up the environment around you, you’ll be creating more peace in your mind as well
Allow yourself to warm up from how you’re feeling to how you want to feel. It’s not fair to yourself to have the expectation that you’ll suddenly feel better and want to be productive again. Give yourself a to-do list of small manageable tasks that you know you can accomplish to get yourself up and moving. Once you’ve started getting things done, momentum will pick up and you’ll start to feel more motivated to get bigger tasks done too
Change your state. It might be by putting on your favourite song, picking out an outfit you love, getting yourself ready for the day or dancing around the house. Shake off the dull energy and lift your spirits back up in whatever way feels right for you
Give yourself a reason. Reignite that fire in your soul by finding purpose in your days again, whether it be reminding yourself what you want to create for your future or a new and exciting passion project. By finding your “why” you’re giving yourself a motivator to keep going even on the days it feels difficult
Reward yourself. Be proud of your accomplishments and celebrate both big and small wins, allow yourself to enjoy the process along the way and not just the end results. When you give yourself something to look forward to, you’re keeping the energy high and creating a more productive environment
Explore something new. Sometimes all we need is a new hobby that sparks excitement to get us motivated again. Fan the flames of interest to see if they’ll grow into passion, don’t get disheartened if it doesn’t happen right away, keep testing out new things to see what you enjoy
Assess your surroundings. As the saying goes, you become the 5 people you spend the most time with. Make sure you’re surrounding yourself with friendships and relationships that nurture your growth and happiness, if you’re not spending time with people who lift you up and encourage you, make it a priority to change that
Listen, read and watch content that cultivates inspiration and passion. Our subconscious mind is always listening and absorbing what’s around us. If you’re surrounding yourself with the same mundane experiences all the time, of course, you’re going to feel dull and lack excitement. Choose to consume content that intrigues you to learn more, lifts your energy and recharges your zest for life
I feel as though it is important to note that feelings of depression and other mental challenges are different to those of being in a rut. If you believe that you or someone you know is needing support, I highly recommend reaching out to a trained professional. I’ve listed some information below to assist if you feel it might be more than a rut
Call 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support
Texting option available on 0477 13 11 14 between 12pm - 2am
Live chat option available online between 7pm - 2am
Call 1300 659 467 for 24/7 counselling
Live chat option available 24/7
Online depression/mental health assessment
Resources and support
Headspace have centre’s all over Australia, if you need information or someone to talk to, they’ll set you up with expert support
24/7 affordable online counselling for individuals, couples and children
A non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide
