Gray Days, Quiet Resolve

Choosing discipline over the cozy call of a blanket and a nap

When discipline overcomes the pull of a lazy day. Photo by Bonnie S. Heisse

If I had my way, I'd curl up in front of a fireplace with a blanket and a good book. (Yes, the print version—there's something about the smell and feel that resonates with me.)

Later, I'd take a nap.

Have a lazy day.

But it's hard to get motivated on days like this.

Luckily, I no longer have to spend all day outside in the rain, soaked and uncomfortable.

Still, my energy mimics the gray sky.

When it's gloomy outside, I feel drained inside.

And yet, the reality is: tasks won't get done without me.

This is when self-motivation and discipline matter most—when the cozy call of that fireplace feels strongest.

A set schedule helps, primarily when you work from home and are your boss.

So how do I keep going?

- Take multiple breaks.
- Break tasks into smaller chunks.
- Get up and move to shake off the sluggishness.
- Reward myself for small steps in the right direction.

Deadlines help, of course.

But today, it’s just me pushing myself to follow through. I'll admit, I still want to take that nap.

But first, I'll check a few things off my to-do list.

Maybe play some Christian music to boost my energy.

Because it's in quiet, gray moments like these that character and drive show through.

Do you push through—or do you give in?

Time is a valuable commodity.

Once it's gone, you can't get it back.

So today, despite the call of that nap, I choose to use my time wisely.

What about you?

How do you stay motivated on days like this?