5 things to do when you don't feel like going to work

It's quite normal to feel not fully ready for the call of duty on some days. Some mornings have this tendency to keep us pinned to our pillows and bed. Mind and muscle turn against the will to go out there and get things done. While the feeling is harmless as long as it lasts just for a day or two, it can cause severe damage to your career if it prolongs beyond acceptable and becomes a recurring theme in our work life. Here are five things to do on your off day that can prep you up to face work with renewed strength and vigour the day after:

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Try to be by yourself

Our busy lives seldom leave a window for us to meet our own inner selves. A sudden break from the mad rush could become a well-spent day if it is spent in silent reflection. Use your day off to sort your head out. Putting the contents of your mind in order gets you all prepped up to face work with a fresh outlook towards life.

According to Psychology Today, “Constantly being ‘on’ doesn't give your brain a chance to rest and replenish itself. Being by yourself with no distractions gives you the chance to clear your mind, focus, and think more clearly. It's an opportunity to revitalize your mind and body at the same time.”

Build something

Build a garden stool. Paint a new colour over an old wall. Start a kitchen garden. Try and use your day off to do some physical exercise that is not the usual jog at the gym. Building something with your hands is a great self-confidence boosting exercise.

Strike a new friendship

Go for a stroll or an aimless bus ride. Find a stranger and try to strike a friendship. Be natural and honest. Avoid being stressed or forcibly cool. That would make you look creepy. Not comfortable talking to complete strangers? Try visiting an old age home or an orphanage or an animal rescue center and lend a helping hand in the day-to-day activities.

According to Becoming Minimalist, “Studies also indicate that authentic friendships actually result in better health. These relationships make healthy habits easier to adopt and the body more likely to heal itself.”

Clean up the house

Cleaning up your living space automatically lightens the mind by removing all the built-up stress in us. A relaxed thorough cleanup is also meditative. Putting things in order externally helps in putting your thoughts in order too.

Pay a surprise visit to an old friend

Releasing yourself from the clutches of the weekday drill gives you the opportunity to easily meet people. You're, more or less, sure to find them at their workplace (as long as they're at work and have not taken off like you). Call and meet up an old friend over lunch. Work-life can easily come in the way of good old friendships, if we let them. What work takes away, wrestle it back when you get the chance.

Not feeling up to it is the sign of motivation lacking in your life. To bounce back, choose and involve yourself in activities that would refresh your mind.