The holiday season is a whirlwind of activity, random problems, and drama. After a wonderful week away for Thanksgiving, Peck caught a stomach bug. We didn’t light our Advent candle until last night. It’s the first week of the season, and we’re already behind. Plus, I’m teaching the 4H lesson at tomorrow’s meeting. I’m not sure about you, but for me all this busyness leads to days where I just don’t wanna. I don’t wanna clean the house; I don’t wanna homeschool, or be productive in any way. My mom calls these moods the “mulligrubs.” So, what do I do when a day off is a luxury I can’t afford? Here are some simple tips that help me stay motivated when I just don’t wanna.

Give me Jesus

The basic act of private worship improves my outlook. Whether it’s setting aside time for study and prayer or streaming worship music, bringing Jesus into my day refreshes my spirit and gives me energy.

I Put on my Shoes

Getting dressed in the morning, including putting on my shoes, propels me into the right mind frame for the day. The longer I stay in my pajamas, the longer I procrastinate.

Break Up that Routine

I have a favorite chair. It’s comfy and cozy and perfectly formed to my hiney. Once my rear touches that soft cushion I’m down for the count, lost in several episodes of my current television show. On days I need to get stuff done, I avoid the chair.

Bite-size Chunks

I break my to do list into manageable pieces. For example, I don’t write, “clean the bathroom.” I write, “clean the toilet, clean the sink, mop the floor.” If I write down long tasks, I’m likely to skip them. But if I break them down into smaller chores, I accomplish them quickly. This motivates me to continue. Nothing is more satisfying than crossing something off my list.

Get Moving

It doesn’t make sense, but exerting energy creates more energy. If I get up and start walking around my house, I find the stamina to continue. If I sit, my energy ebbs away. So I chose tasks that require movement, such as laundry. Our laundry room is outside. I earn many a step as I go in and out. I save chores that require sitting, like paying the bills, until after I’ve powered up.

I hope these tips will help you conquer the mulligrubs this holiday season! I’d love to read what helps you get moving. Leave your tips in the comment section.