[photo: NatalieMaynor, Creative Commons]
I get ideas in the shower, while I’m running, even at the grocery store.
I love writing. I love thinking, connecting ideas, and coming around here to share them with you.
So when I don’t feel like writing, I know something is wrong.
It’s the same thing you think when your car won’t go anymore. It was made to go. It was designed to take you from place to place. If it isn’t doing what it was designed to do, it like a signpost pointing to something that’s out of place. You check the gas gauges, the other fluids. You might even take it to a mechanic.
Cars need gas to keep going. People need… well, all different things I guess.
So I’m curious. While I’m thinking about my own answer to this question, what is it that keeps you going? What keeps your gas tank full? (Please pardon my cheesy analogy). When there are days that you don’t feel like doing what you were made to do, what gets you out of bed in the morning?
How do you make sure you get what you need to keep going?
I have rediscovered a love for writing, so I make time to do freewriting now when I need to take a step back…and then keep going. Stopping by my favorite coffee shop also helps! Even just taking a walk outside and observing nature does wonders.
I agree with you completely about the nature piece. There’s something so inspiring about getting lost in creation — on a hike, or a walk on the beach.
I have found that when I feel like I can’t go anymore, I think about the people who have helped me make it to where I’m at. I think about the constant words of affirmation that have been poured into me, and how much love that the Father has for me that I couldn’t possibly just stop now.
Haley, that’s a great point. Thanks for sharing.
Ally, I just have to say that I love reading your blogs! My dear friend Kathryn Keating (formerly DeLashmutt-from Portland) told me about your first blog under your maiden name. A lot of your writing inspired me and helped me answer many questions I had about myself, God, dating, etc. So I wanted to say thank you!! I continue to look forward to reading your articles, whatever the topic.
In response to this article, sometimes in the morning it’s just the thought of getting a good cup of coffee that gets me going! But more often than not its knowing that God has provided me with a good job, a comfortable bed, a car to get me to work (the list could go on). I am so blessed to live comfortably when so many do not. A subtle reminder of that usually gives me the motivation to get up, keep trudging on, etc.
Meagan — that’s so cool! Thanks for sharing how you found my blog. Kathryn and I were friends in high school and I love hearing stories like that!
Coffee gets me out of bed in the morning too. I’m glad you said that
Wow Allie, this question hit me like a ton of bricks this morning. I don’t know what motivates me. As I am still buried under this pile of bricks, I suppose God wants me to ponder this for a while! Great Question!
Angela — you and me both. Glad I got you thinking!
When that happens to me it’s usually because I’m overloaded with life so I pick a single, usually quiet activity. I read a book, watch a movie, write a letter. Recently I watched an entire TV series on DVD (it took me less than a week). It was just what I needed.
Sarah — I think I’m like you (fueled by quiet activities). What TV series did you watch? Do you recommend it?
A coworker let me borrow Rome. I’m mildly obsessed with it now (that it’s canceled). I recommend it but if you don’t like blood and guts it’s not for you.
I’ll check it out!
Writing definitely keeps me going too. Sometimes that tank does run dry and I’m never really sure what to do with myself at times like that. They make me more sad.
Katie
PS: What happened to DISQUS?
Katie — I’m trying out a new blog theme, which means no DISQUS for now
Just trying it out. We’ll see if it sticks.
Before I get out of bed every morning, I remember who God is, and I think about the things I can be thankful for, even if — no, especially if — it’s a very hard time. This gives me the right perspective and reminds me why I’m alive.
I love that, Bridget. Thankfulness is a discipline, and exercising gratitude is a great way to gain perspective.
Thanks for sharing!
After feeling like my dreams have died for so long and then starting to write something good and then stopping,for no tangible reason (my internal believer and motivator ) was broken) I’m on a slow start to learning what keeps me going.Paying my bills and having a place to stay is what has motivated me to work,not to enjoy it.I am having to learn to enjoy things again,to write because i have always loved to.Everything turned into a money making scheme because i felt I had nothing to live for (nothing enjoyable anyway..) I am getting there though.Thank you for this question.will give it a good thorough thought!
Wow, thank you for sharing your story. You’re not alone. Keep fighting for joy. It is possible. You are valuable.
Glad I got you thinking.