What I do when I’m feeling unmotivated in life with ALS
These strategies help me break free from the doldrums of 'lag time'
Can it be that we were cheering on athletes at the Olympics only a few months ago? Where did the summer go? Looking back, I realize I spent most of my summer and early fall months distracted by the hoopla of world and national events, and now I’m exhausted. I’m well aware that my ALS symptoms are contributing to my body’s low energy and muscle stiffness, but now my mind is getting sluggish as well. Am I feeling unmotivated? Yup.
Before I had ALS, I could easily adjust to changing seasons and the ups and downs of daily news, plus manage the commitments crowding my calendar. Now, between getting my annual flu shot and a COVID-19 jab, seeing my dermatologist, having an eye exam, and visiting the ALS clinic, all in two months, it’s no wonder I feel exhausted. Although I don’t think I’m the only one. Even my favorite newsletter bloggers are on break. Maybe you’re feeling it, too?
No doubt about it, we’re caught in the doldrums of lag time.
I’ve written several columns about how to recover from the holidays, fun events, and too much socializing. Looks like it’s time for me to follow my own advice.
What do I do first?
Whenever I feel out of sync, I imagine what my perfect day would look like, including everything from the moment I wake up to when I finally fall asleep. And then I try to follow it.
For example: my morning stretch routine, what I have for breakfast, time spent on my computer, lunch, meditation, afternoon exercise, crafting, dinner, TV, and getting ready for bed. Oh, and don’t forget to review the day for my gratitude list while I drift off to sleep.
No doubt, it’s a large list, but still a mighty good goal. Not everything gets accomplished right away, but I shoot to get things done one day at a time.
In my column “Time Matters,” I mention the phrase, “My attention is a currency that I have to spend wisely.” It’s so true, especially since living with ALS and its predicted shortened lifespan increases our awareness of how precious every minute is.
So, I remind myself to be mindful, to live in the now, and to be mentally present for everything yet to come.
Self-care is next: Quality sleep, drinking fluids, eating healthy foods, and following my normal eating schedule are priorities, along with a few quiet “me time” activities.
Looking forward
The holidays are coming next, with parties, family gatherings, and many other social situations. Take advantage of this downtime to prepare your mind and body for the next wave of activity.
If you’ve experienced disruptions to your daily routine and are feeling unmotivated, try my tips and strategies. We can ride out this lag time together, and together, we can live well while living with ALS.
Note: ALS News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of ALS News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to ALS.
About the Author
Alton Craig Peterson
I have had ALS now for 4 years. As a Christian, over the last 4 years I have learned much more. And God has Blessed Me and My wife with many things. I have learned to "Listen and Wait" on what God will teach Me, After I Wait I will the Learn and then I can Do. The issues I have had to deal with are very similar to what I remember seeing with My Mother, Father, and Brother. They did not have ALS but did have other Health Issues. I will continue to "Listen and Wait" on God and move forward one day at a time.
Dagmar Munn
Alton, how wonderful that you have your faith to give you support during the challenges of living with ALS. Best wishes, Dagmar
Donna Ellis
I follow your articles enjoy and learn from you. I have bulbar palsy so lost speech, regular meals
, since feeding tube.thank you so much for your opinion, miss the exercise and sports, yoga too for years. I’m walking now but falling a lot , I would appreciate your stretch routine for legs. Only been diagnosed in 2021 so much has change, but each day is valuable
Thanks
Dagmar Munn
Donna, thank you for your kind words!
I don't focus on "stretching" per say, but on movement, simple movement. Here are a few of my past blog posts that may be of help for you:
Do You Rock and Roll? https://alsandwellness.blogspot.com/2015/07/do-you-rock-n-roll-als-exercise-tips.html
My Tricks for Adding Movement to My Day https://alsandwellness.blogspot.com/2022/03/my-tricks-for-adding-movement-to-my-day.html
...and especially if have trouble walking:
The Power of Just One Chair Squat https://alsandwellness.blogspot.com/2020/02/the-power-of-just-one-chair-squat.html
Dagmar