So, is the mid-year slump actually a thing?

The mid-year slump is a phenomenon where we experience a noticeable decrease in motivation, energy, and productivity around the middle of the year. This slump can impact various aspects of life, including work, academic performance, and general well-being.

What can cause the mid-year slump?

There are a range of factors which can contribute to this ‘sluggish’ vibe we’re all experiencing! These can be to do with psychological, physiological, and even environmental factors.

Psychological Factors

1. Goal Setting and Motivation Cycles: Our motivation often follows a cyclical pattern throughout the year. At the beginning of the year, new goals and and intentions provide a boost in motivation. However, by mid-year, the initial enthusiasm can fizzle out, leading to a decline in motivation and productivity.
2. Burnout and Fatigue: Prolonged periods of work or study without adequate breaks can lead to burnout. Burnout can look like emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, and a sense of reduced personal accomplishment.

Physiological Factors

1. Circadian Rhythms and Seasonal Affective Disorder (AKA sleep and weather!): Circadian rhythms, which regulate the sleep-wake cycle and other bodily functions, can be influenced by changes in daylight and weather conditions. Additionally, SAD symptoms tend to increase in the winter months.

Environmental Factors

1. Workload Cycles: Many workplaces and schools/universities have cyclical workloads, with significant projects, exams, and deadlines often concentrated in the first and second quarters of the year. By mid-year, the accumulated stress and fatigue from these activities can result in decreased productivity.

How can we shift from mid to motivated?

Setting short-term goals

Breaking down goals into smaller, manageable tasks can help maintain motivation throughout the year. Regularly revisiting and adjusting these goals can provide a sense of progress and achievement.

Self-care and mindfulness

Having regular self-care activities can help the body feel balanced and keep you thriving. Adding in activities such as a Kic yoga flow, hobbies (like my new favourite, pottery!), mindfulness, and having “down time” to regulate your nervous system.

Eating balanced meals Eating a balanced diet is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. A balanced diet provides the body with the essential nutrients it needs to function properly, supports growth and development, and helps prevent various health issues. Using the recipe in the Kic app is a great way to take the guess work out of your meal planning for you!

Create a routine Establish a consistent daily routine to build momentum and reduce decision fatigue throughout your day to day activities. This can help spark your motivation and ease you back into your weekly flow.

Need a routine to move you from meh to motivated?

Finding the motivation to move your body when you’re feeling ‘meh’ can be tough, but even the smallest movements can have a positive effect on your mood and mental health. But now’s not the time to put pressure on yourself to go hard or completely overhaul your routine. Kic’s mid-year challenge is all about easing your way back to feeling good by taking small sustainable steps. With just 5 to 15 minute workouts, twice a week, let’s move from meh to motivated, together.