Apathy is defined as a lack of interest, enthusiasm or concern. What makes apathy so peculiar,  is the “feeling of not feeling” is almost like going numb.

When we feel the joy and energy for important things in our life is missing, but we lack the motivation to change our circumstances, we may find ourselves in a state of indifference, detachment or a lack of concern. Without feelings, it becomes difficult to muster up the desire needed to take action. A lack of motivation can zap our energy and leave us feeling drained and unable to change even the smallest of situations.

When we lose hope for our own happiness and fulfillment, we begin to lose hope for bigger change in our community and our world. In order to make change happen, we must start with ourselves.  As we work to be our best self, we will begin to care for the good of others as well.

It’s up to us to motivate ourselves to be healthy, conscientious and happy people. It’s like Mahatma Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Only you can take the bull by the horns and seize the day.

Here are some ways to help you trade apathy for action:

• Give up negative messages you may believe and change your story to a positive one filled hope.
• Start problem-solving and decide on some easy first steps that can help pull you out of the emotional abyss in which you’ve been living.
• Make a list of what you believe will make your situation better. If you happen to have some life circumstances that are beyond your control, you will need to accept this and move on. You don’t want to allow those issues to negatively affect you when you have no way to alter them.
• Change your routine and incorporate healthy habits such as exercise, new experiences and socializing.
• Plan a trip. When we have something to look forward to our levels of hope and happiness increase.
• Spend time in nature, take long walks, or consider adding a new interest in your life. Whether it’s a job change, relationship change or taking up a new hobby; anything that gives you a new lease on life is well worth the effort.
• Listen to music, read a good book, play with a child, and laugh with your friends. You probably didn’t realize in your apathy that some of life’s most enjoyable gifts fell by the wayside. Awaken the simple joys of life!

A little motivation can go a long way and help you trade apathy for a plan of action. One small step leads to another and another. Just keep moving forward with your goals, and before long these actions can.

Answers from A to Z