Spring Forward and Find Motivation in the Messy Middle

It’s that weird time of year, the middle ground between winter hibernation and full-on spring energy. 

Some days feel fresh and full of possibility. Others? Well, they feel like dragging yourself through cold, damp fog while wondering if the sun even remembers you exist.

I get it. I live in the Pacific Northwest, where winter sometimes tends to overstay its welcome. Right now, I’m itching for the Daffodil and Tulip Festivals, for the explosion of color that reminds me life does wake up again. I do miss the sunshine sometimes. I miss the way warmth warms my bones and often makes everything feel easier. And honestly? Motivation has been a bit hit or miss lately.

If you’ve been struggling too, whether it’s the lingering winter, the heaviness in the world, or just that weird in-between season of life, you’re not alone. The good news? Motivation isn’t something we have to wait for. Sometimes, we just have to go looking in the right places.

Where Did My Motivation Go?

Maybe it’s hiding under the pile of laundry you meant to fold last week. Maybe it ran off with your missing sock. Or maybe it’s just taking a little break until the flowers return.

The thing about motivation is that we treat it like a magical force, one that just appears when conditions are perfect. But life isn’t perfect, and if we wait for motivation to show up, we might be waiting a long time.

I used to believe I needed to feel motivated before I could do something. 

Now I know that motivation is more like a stubborn car battery - it often needs a jumpstart.

What If You Don’t Need Motivation to Start?

Here’s my truth: I’ve learned I don’t have to want to do something in order to do it. I just have to start.

Think about it - how many times have you dreaded a task, only to get into it and realize it wasn’t so bad? Maybe it was a workout, cleaning out a closet, paying bills, or even sending that email you’d been avoiding.

Action creates motivation, not the other way around.

So instead of waiting to feel like doing something, try this:

• Commit to just five minutes - five minutes of moving, writing, planning, whatever it is. You can quit after five minutes if you want (but you probably won’t).

• Pair it with something enjoyable - music, a warm drink, or a reward when you finish.

• Lower the bar - maybe today isn’t about crushing a big goal. Maybe it’s about one tiny step forward.

Start with a Morning Routine

One of the best ways to shake off the winter blues is by setting the tone for your day. A morning routine isn’t just about discipline - it’s about priming your mind and body to be ready for action. When I stick to my routine, even in the grayest, rainiest months, I feel more capable and grounded.

It doesn’t have to be complicated. Just a few intentional choices to get yourself moving:

• Drink water first thing - your brain needs it.

• Move your body - even a few stretches or a short walk outside can shift your mood.

• Set one simple goal for the day to create momentum.

• Give yourself quiet time - whether it’s meditation, journaling, or just sitting with a cup of coffee, a little stillness makes a difference.

Unexpected Places to Find Motivation

If motivation isn’t showing up at your door, it might be hanging out in places you haven’t looked. Try checking:

• Movement – A short walk, stretching, or even just standing outside for a few minutes can shift your energy. Bonus points if the sun is involved.

• Music – The right song can change your entire mood. Put on something that makes you feel alive.

• Stories – A great book, an inspiring podcast, or even watching someone else push through their own challenges can remind you that you can, too.

• Connection – Sometimes, a quick chat with a friend (or even a stranger) sparks something inside you.

• A Change of Scenery – Working in a different spot, taking a drive, or even switching up your routine can make a difference.

Motivation and the Enneagram: What Works for You?

Since we’re all wired differently, it makes sense that motivation looks different for each of us. If you know your Enneagram type, here’s where you might find the push you need:

• Type 1 (The Reformer) – You’re motivated by improvement and doing the “right” thing. Remind yourself that small progress is still progress. Give yourself permission to start before everything feels perfect.

• Type 2 (The Helper) – You thrive when there’s purpose behind what you’re doing. If motivation is low, ask: Who will benefit from me showing up today? Sometimes thinking beyond yourself can help.

• Type 3 (The Achiever) – You’re driven by results, but sometimes getting started is the hardest part. Try setting a mini goal with a clear finish line. A quick win can build momentum.

• Type 4 (The Individualist) – (Hey, that’s me!) You need meaning, inspiration, and sometimes just a mood shift. Try creating a playlist, changing up your space, or finding beauty in small things.

• Type 5 (The Investigator) – Information fuels you. If you’re stuck, dive into learning mode - but set a timer so research doesn’t replace action.

• Type 6 (The Loyalist) – You do best with structure and support. If you’re struggling, create a simple plan or ask someone to check in with you.

• Type 7 (The Enthusiast) – You need variety and fun. If motivation is low, switch up your routine, try something new, or make a game out of it.

• Type 8 (The Challenger) – You move when there’s a challenge. Set a personal challenge, prove yourself wrong, or find a reason to push forward.

• Type 9 (The Peacemaker) – You like ease and flow, but that can lead to inertia. Find one small step that feels doable and focus only on that. Momentum will follow.

Spring Forward, Even If You’re Still in Winter

Whether it’s a lingering winter, a personal rut, or just one of those days where everything feels off, remember: you don’t have to feel motivated to take action.

Start small. Move your body. Change your scenery. And if all else fails, just remind yourself - spring will come, the flowers will bloom, and the sun will shine again.

And so will you.

Diana