December Editorial message

lethargy

/ˈlɛθədʒi/

It is that time of the year when 'all those' motivational speakers ask you questions such as 'have you achieved your goals for 2021?  There are just 20 days left in 2021, where is the 2 million naira you planned to save?' Questions which often raise your blood pressure, right?

Or have you recently strolled through the social streets of Instagram or smartly walked through the corporate corridors of LinkedIn, only to get oppressed by laurels, certificates and newly attained positions by LinkedIn overachievers?

 And then you feel even more depressed because your days have been characterised by prolonged lethargy which prevents you from getting down to work. 

Quite sad, and unnerving, right? 

Lethargy is defined as a lack of energy and enthusiasm. Your lethargy may have been characterised by sluggishness and fatigue, either physical or mental.

 Perhaps, you realise now that you have a million tasks to complete, 3 job shifts and school assignments to contend with, but you have been experiencing a certain lull in your blood streams, that slows down your output rate. 

Perhaps, you just now begin to beat yourself up, mentally ofcourse, and berate yourself for being the laziest time waster you know. Perhaps not. 

Dear NASELSite,

Understand that your lack of motivation could be caused by certain factors, some of which may include a lack of activity, depression or even over exertion.

 Identify and acknowledge what you feel. Different it from 'failure'. Then, identify the source and find ways to manage it, and rejuvenate your soul.

 Below are three ways to help you regain motivation:

a. Exercise

b. Eat a balanced diet

c. Just do it. 

Exercising helps your body produce chemicals known as endorphins which energises you and allows you a positive outlook on life. Think of it like revving your body for tasks you have to accomplish. 

Eating a balanced diet includes avoiding too much suager and increasing your fruits intake. Sounds cliche, right? But, too much sugar reduces the orexin levels in your brain which keeps you awake. So, think twice before you slurp that jam-filled, sugar-coated doughnut. Or, maybe you don't believe me and you want to experiment first. Good luck!

Just do it! Yes, the most cliche but the most effective of them. Lethargic or not, you certainly don't want to flunk your Advanced syntax examination! And ofcourse, your boss would fire you when you can't deliver your deliverables. Basically, act like you're motivated. Drag your limbs out of bed and go through your day, one task at a time. 

Dear NASELSite, 

It is common for you to experience lethargy or a lack of motivation. But, to tow the lane of comparison, self criticism and beration is to go down the lane of destruction. Acknowledge your experience, be kind to yourself and find ways to reinvigorate your soul. 

Welcome to December!

Zainab Aderounmu,

Editor-in-chief,

NASELS SOUTHWEST blog.