Caught in a slump...how do you get out?

[AJHCFamily]

What do you do to pick yourself up when you are in a work slump (other than daydream about quitting over and over again!)? I like my job a lot, but sometimes just get caught in a slump. For me it happens when I am bored with aspects of my project plus overtired. I feel like I just stare at the computer making little progress and waiting for my "hours" to end, but I don't work based on hours. I work based on deliverables so wasting time is just dragging out the process.

Common sense would be get more sleep (near impossible with a baby) and to finish up the boring parts so I can move onto the more exciting things, but this isn't happening as easily as it sounds. Anyone want to share ideas for what works for you?

[carol7906]

I find a part of my job that I feel excited about and do something creative with it.  Like, I started a women's group with a new type of therapy that was interesting to me or right now, I'm writing a weekly blog and working on a book project.  So, doing something creative with my skills helps me, hope that 's helpful to you!

[AJHCFamily]

Wow, those are great ideas! Very inspiring and positive. Thank you!

[sparklett]

I  just returned from a conference and feel much more energized.  Met lots of educated, professional mamas like myself and left feeling very positive about my career path.  Would a conference or workshop be feasible for you?

I'm also finding ways to get more creative with my job.  I work in environmental policy, which can be very adult-focused and actually somewhat boring at times.  I recently started a family nature club in my area so I could still carry out my mission with adults but do it through family-based outdoor activities.

I'm in the same boat as you, where I don't get paid based on hours, but on deliverables.  I make a weekly list of things that must be accomplished each day.  Once those things are accomplished, I'm free to do what I want.  So the faster I work, the sooner I can round up DS and head to the beach, the library, the zoo, etc.

I'd suggest that you look for ways to reconnect with your professional network and find some ways to get creative.  Good luck!