If you’re anything like me, you have days when you just don’t feel like doing any of the housework that needs to be done. But it still needs to be done! How do you get moving? Here are a few tricks that have worked for me to push myself to work when I’m feeling unmotivated:

Just Take One Step

Agree with yourself to do the first step of the task, whatever that is.

If you have dishes that need to be washed, for example, decide that you will scrape/rinse and stack the dishes neatly by the sink, or that you’ll wash all of the silverware.

This bite-sized task is often more within my unmotivated grasp than the full job, but by the time I’ve finished it I have usually gained enough momentum to just complete the work. Even if you don’t go on to complete the job, you’re one step closer to finished.

Alternate with Fun

Alternate work on the undesirable job with something you enjoy. To continue the dish example, sometimes I’ll wash the silverware, put the plates in the sink to soak, and go read an email or two. Then I’ll return to the kitchen and wash the plates, put the bowls in the sink to soak, and read a few more emails.

A not-so-fun job is less tiring (emotionally) when I don’t feel like I’m stuck there until it’s finished.

Find a Friend

If possible, find some company. I would much rather work with someone in the room I can talk to, even if that person isn’t helping with the work. It’s just less boring when it’s less lonely!

If there isn’t anyone who can provide physical company while you work, praying might provide a helpful alternative.  Or maybe you can chat with a friend on the phone while you get the job done.

Play Music

Putting on some upbeat music often helps when I’m feeling unmotivated, especially if it’s something I can sing along with.