This pandemic gives us a unique chance to reflect and recharge, writes Counsellor Sarah Barr.

We are living with quite a bit of uncertainty at the minute. Our routines have been turned upside down, our daily schedules have changed and we may find it harder to motivate ourselves.

Here are 4 tips that can help us to self-motivate:

1. Welcome the challenge.

Embrace this time.

Is there anything you would like to learn or upskill in?

Re-write your daily routine. Get up and get dressed every day and face your day with a plan. Set a goal, such as clearingcout cupboards, baking, reading, calling a friend or listening to a guided meditation or breathing relaxation technique on YouTube.

2. Reflect on your motivation.

Look back on times in your life, when you were motivated. What was the underlying driver? Why did you do it? For yourself, your family or your work?

Tap into these reasons again.

This is what drives the ‘initiation phase’ and it requires focus to change our daily routines and to start new habits.

3. Self-regulation.

Self-regulation is about managing our own behaviour. This is not just about having self-control, it also involves goal setting and starting and maintaining good habits.

Creating an adaptive mindset, will help you to have the ability to adapt your goals, attitude and habits in response to the changes you may face.

4. Goal-Setting.

Many of our goals have gone or they seem uncertain. So, set a new one!

Take time and think about what you would like to do. Perhaps you may consider going down a different work path, or learn a new skill or it may be an opportunity for you to catch up on paperwork. Perhaps set some shorter, medium and longer-term flexible goals.

This pandemic provides a unique chance to reflect and recharge.

Please reach out and talk to a friend, a family member or contact one of the below numbers, if you need support.

•24/7 Suicide Helpline: 1800 247 247
•Aware Support Line: 1800 80 48 48
•Pieta House: 1800 247 247
•Samaritans: 116 123
•LifeLine: 0808 808 8000 (Northern Ireland).

I am currently offering online counselling services, for further details please private message my Facebook page or call/text 0864477867.

Take care, Sarah.