There are some days when you wake up and everything feels a bit blah. Your energy levels are low, your brain refuses to click into gear and any task you need to tick off seems to take twice as long – it’s like you’re wading through mud. 

The ideal scenario would be sacking off work and staying in bed. But unfortunately, few workplaces consider ‘not really feeling up for it, to be honest’ a valid reason for a sick day. And often, it’s not that we don’t want to work, it’s just that for unknowable reasons we’re not firing on all cylinders. 

So, how do we get through a meh day and make it, if not a great day, at least one that’s a little less rubbish? How do we come out of a day at work and feel fulfilled?

Lorena Bernal, a certified life coach and founder of the events and coaching platform Live Love Better, says it’s all about our mindset. “In our modern, fast-paced world, work often consumes a significant portion of our lives,” she tells Stylist. “It’s a realm where we contribute, learn and strive. Yet it’s essential to remember that work is just one piece of the vast puzzle that makes up our existence. Let’s explore how we can shift from merely enduring to actively finding joy and purpose in those days that seem just ‘meh’, using mindfulness and self-reflection as our tools.

“The concept of mindfulness plays a pivotal role here. Mindfulness is about being present in the moment, fully engaging with your current activities or the people you’re with. It involves letting go of anxieties about the future or regrets from the past, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the here and now. This practice is vital for both our professional and personal lives.”

The way we use mindfulness at work might be a little different to how we use it in our non-work lives. It’s about being strategic and using certain prompts to shift your mind into the right gear. “You don’t have to disconnect from your true self while at work,” says Bernal. “Distancing yourself from your core during work hours can make it more difficult to reconnect with yourself later. Instead, leverage the parts of you that are skilled and passionate for your job, appreciating and being thankful for these traits. This doesn’t mean bringing your entire self to work but focusing on the aspects that thrive in your professional environment.

“Moreover, it’s crucial to refrain from harshly judging your job. Viewing it as beneath you or mundane – being critical only adds unnecessary stress. Every job has its importance, and recognising the value in what you do, without comparison or judgment, fosters a sense of gratitude and presence.”

How to shift into that headspace? With the five prompts Bernal recommends ahead. 

• How did I make a positive impact today? Reflect on your contributions, no matter how small, and appreciate the difference they made.
• In what ways did I grow today? Growth can be found in the smallest of steps. Acknowledge and celebrate these moments of personal and professional development.
• How can I approach tomorrow with curiosity instead of dread? Shifting your mindset to see potential challenges as opportunities can transform how you perceive the day ahead.
• Which aspects of myself did I bring to work today, and how did they enhance my tasks? Reflect on the skills and qualities you utilised, how they contributed to your success, and what you learned from focusing on them.
• Praise yourself! Recognise your resilience, accomplishments, and the hurdles you’ve overcome. Celebrating your successes, big or small, is crucial for maintaining a positive self-view.

“Incorporating these prompts into your daily routine can significantly alter your perception of work, transforming mundane or challenging days into opportunities for growth and fulfilment,” Bernal adds. “They encourage you to remain present, recognise your contributions, and balance your professional and personal life effectively.

“As you conclude your workday, make a conscious effort to switch off from work mode. Reconnect with all aspects of yourself, not just those you engage with professionally. Embrace your hobbies, enjoy quality time with loved ones or relish in moments of solitude. Life’s richness extends far beyond our jobs; it’s filled with endless opportunities for joy, discovery and contentment.

“By finding the good in every day, you’re not merely surviving but thriving. This approach not only enhances your workday but enriches your entire life, proving that even the most ‘meh’ days can hold value and purpose. Remember, every day is a new chapter in your vast, vibrant life – embrace it fully.” 

Images: Adobe