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Mojo, Oh Dear Mojo, Where Are You?

Written by admin

Topics: Good Advice

brain-fog

I have to just admit it.

I’m in the pits.

My mojo is seriously lacking.

This is usually a super time of year for me.  I love my business in all seasons, but I especially enjoy September. Moms send the kids off to school and realize they have some time on their hands.  They start thinking of ways to fill that time – and perhaps put a few dollars in their pockets while they’re at it.

Hmmm.. just typing that out gets me a bit geeked – so I guess my mojo isn’t as far gone as I feared… that’s good to know.

I’ve had a lot going on in other areas of my life.  The stress saps my energy and makes me want to vegetate – or waste ridiculous amounts of time on stupid Facebook games.

It’s normal.  I know.  I’m trying to go with the flow but after several weeks of brain fog I’m starting to feel some concern.  I don’t like being unproductive for so long.

Have any advice for me?  I needs it!

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  • darina

    Ah Kel, I’m not going to be much use to you, I can only say I’m so glad I’m not the only one ! I think mine just got wiped out after five years online so I decided to pretty much take a break over the summer to see what happened ! Haven’t found it fully yet but there are signs that it’s bubbling under the surface :) so hopefully you’ll get lots of great feedback/advice here and I might steal some of it :)

  • Tracy @ Hall of Fame Moms

    Don’t know if I have any advice. I’ve been there too. Maybe you need to add something new and challenging to the mix? Set a new goal to reach?

  • Christine Holroyd

    Hi Kelly.

    Take a holiday and do as little as possible, do more outsourcing. You’ve had some big and challenging events in your life recently. The loss of your Mum, moving house, your son moving out etc.

    Don’t underestimate the grieving process. It can take its toll if you don’t let it take its course and my guess is, losing your mojo is because you are grieving.

    Hugs to you and I hope you work it out, but be kind to yourself. Try and grab a weekly/daily :-) massage and/or do whatever makes you feel good.

  • http://athomemomblog.com Athomemomblog

    Sorry, I can’t help much, my brain has been in a fog for months now. :(

  • Laurie Neumann

    Kelly,
    It may help to go do something different for a day or two. I find if I stay in front of the computer when I’m feeling “foggy” it sometimes just gets worse. Take a long walk, go somewhere you have wanted to – and just let your mind be. Don’t try to focus on getting your motivation back – just enjoy where you are. Then, hopefully, it will come back all on its own:-)

  • Debbie Hall

    Hi, Kelly –
    Activity is really a stress reliever – get off that computer and DO something – preferably something slightly strenuous and mindless that you’ve been avoiding. All that
    good blood flow will start to stimulate your brain – go with whatever lovely thing it leads you to, even if it’s not business related. Once you start getting excited about something, it will lead you back to your business mojo – because that’s where your heart is.
    Ugh… now I have to take my own advice (which is actually rephrasing of your advice ;)

  • Suzanne Lieurance

    Hi, Kelly,

    I think I know how you feel.

    I generally find that when my energy and enthusiasm are low, it means I’ve been trying to go in too many different directions for too long. When that happens, I pull back, refocus in fewer areas, and make a conscious effort to live and work “in the moment” as much as I can. As I tell my coaching clients, I need to “slow down and live.”

    It helps to write those words on a sheet of paper that you can tack up over your computer – “Slow down and live.”

    Try it!

    Suzanne Lieurance
    The Working Writer’s Coach
    http://www.workingwriterscoach.com

  • http://www.onlybyprayer.com Jane Vanosdol

    Kelly,

    When that happens, I like to take some time to get away and get quiet somewhere–whether it’s a corner in a coffee shop, or, like I did in April, a morning at a local retreat center. I ask God to show me what’s going on and pray for direction on what to do next.

    I also like to do something creative in another direction like knitting or sewing. That often just helps to get the creative juices flowing again.

    Finally, sometimes it helps me to just take a walk and observe nature. What are the insects doing, the trees and animals? It often inspires me to draw parallels in my own life.

    Hang in there. This too shall pass. We all go through dry spells, especially writers, because we give so much. We have to be sure we are making time to take in so that we have more to give. : )

  • Marya

    Ooo do I relate to that… The trouble with losing your mojo is that it can down spiral – but Kelly, you’ve got too many good career and self-maintenance habits for that. But you’ve had some major changes and losses. Cut yourself some slack and don’t beat yourself up for not being able to focus the way you normally do.

    Go with the flow when you can, and cut your priorities down – if you’re used to managing 12 priorities a day, cut ‘em down to 3, for example. Until you’ve adjusted to everything.

    Just know that you are a super-awesome person whose mission glows like a beacon. And that goes for your caring for others, as well as your shining example of a work ethic. You’ve always been there for me when I needed it and you’re the first one with advice and assistance. And I know lots of others would agree.

    If the right brain takes over with emotions (even just mental tiredness), go to the Left Side. Debbie is right about activity. Mindless Tasks flip the switch to left brain, and get you going again. Whatever works for you is fine – doing dishes, cleaning out the linen closet, going for a walk… I’m doing all this now, being in a very similar boat to you.

    It’s also normal to get down on yourself when feeling mojo-deficient. No kicking your own butt, okay? Just give yourself a big hug. And an extra one from me!

    Hang in there, Kelly. The sun will shine again.

  • http://www.tishiasavestime.com Tishia Lee

    You’ve been given some great advice (activity, rest, etc) so I don’t really have anything else to offer other than I know what it’s like to not have any Mojo. I think it’s normal that we all go through times like these once in awhile. Hang in there!

  • http://themommaven.com MomMaven

    I lost my mojo most of the summer…I took a full time summer office job so that my family could eat…hubby’s income decreases 75% over the summer…I have blogged and run my business out of necessity not passion. I have 1.5 weeks left of this job but I am sooo ready to get back to MY life.

    We are going away Sept 4-6 (and I think I’m going to unplug for the weekend) and then I am hitting the ground running in Sept-beginning the framework for 2 new websites, attending Travel Blogger Show, Experience 2010 and Type-A Mom…lots of learning and fresh perspective, and then having the best Oct I have ever had!

    Taking time off to clear your mind is the best way I can find my mojo again, especially after a long busy summer.

  • Anonymous

    When I lose my mojo I try to break away from the computer, go to the library and get some good books. I also spend more time in prayer seeking direction, strength and creativity.

    I also exercise every day, drink LOTS of water (and coffee), and read what other business owners are doing to further their education.

    You’re smart and creative…you will break through this mountain like the many you have in the past :)

  • http://www.Lois-Graham.com Lois Graham

    My advice follows along with what others have said. Find a spot of solitude and spend time praying and seeking God’s will. Take care of yourself and look for areas that are causing you stress and reevaluate how to deal with them. Write down things that are interesting to you and things that are done out of habit. See if they align with your purpose. Make any changes necessary to be all God made you to be! You can overcome this!

  • Kelly Mccausey

    Christine, you’re right. I do believe that I have underestimated how much all of this affects me. I’m not a softy – so I like to think that I take things in stride but I can see that it all continues to go on under the surface more than I realize.

  • Kelly Mccausey

    I got out the gym last night – first time in over a week. Felt good!

  • Kelly Mccausey

    Thanks Jane :)

  • Kelly Mccausey

    I’m a fan of focus for sure and have trimmed off some things recently that should help.

  • Kelly Mccausey

    I think some travel would do me a LOT of good :)

  • Kelly Mccausey

    I’m hanging :)

  • Kelly Mccausey

    No kicking my own butt… that’s a hard habit to break!

  • Kelly Mccausey

    I have been READING the last few weeks – and am loving it!

  • Kelly Mccausey

    My Foggy Sister :)

  • Kelly Mccausey

    I believe that Laurie :) I think I’m just getting impatient with the process.

  • Kelly Mccausey

    I think so! I’m brainstorming a bit on that right now.

  • Kelly Mccausey

    There’s good stuff here for sure – feel free to five finger discount anything you like :)

  • Kelly Mccausey

    Thanks Lois :)

  • Lghook

    Happens to all of us! When I’m stuck in a rut, I find these things help: 1) check in with friends – or do a Girls Night Out 2) get to the gym 3) force myself outside for a bit during the day. Don’t punish your self by making yourself sit at your desk and work – your body is telling you need a bit of a break to refresh!

  • Karengerald2002

    Tell your kids you feel sad. Let them cheer you up! You might be surprised at their creativity.

  • http://twitter.com/dailyblessings justdenise23

    Kelly: I enjoyed reading your entire story on how you first got started and so on. Sometimes it helps me to write down all of my blessings; rather than focus on the things that bring us humans down. Remember how far you have come….you have an amazing business, Have helped tons of women and are an inspiration. Pat yourself on the back…maybe you needed to rest a bit. Make a list of what you want to acheive in the future. We all KNOW you can do it, you’ve already proved yourself. There is a lot more Success for you right around the corner:)

  • Anonymous

    Kelly, I read your email this morning around 6:00am. I was busy with the regular routine, so I just decided to respond to your email later. The funny thing is that I walk in the mornings after the kids are off to school, and when I walk, I listen to my ipod. I don’t listen to music, just classes and informational stuff. I am not a tech person, so I still have not mastered the ipod menu. Because of that, I simply listen to whatever is next on the list of things I have downloaded . Every morning is sort of a surprise, and that is fun. This morning I was listening to Kelly McCausey, one of your Breakthrough classes from 2008 with Aurelia. You both had such a great perspective, as well as great advice for all of us. It seems to me that it might be a great time to give Aurelia a call, and revisit some of the advice offered there.

    Sometimes when I am in a funk myself, I need to do anything that will allow me to see real progress, painting a room is a great example, heck, even cleaning the bathroom and then taking a long hot shower can help. Maybe a night out with a good friend who can inspire you. My daughters love yoga classes. How about an online or perhaps a live brainstorming class in MM. Maybe think big, work on a live event somewhere for MM and others. A few hugs from people who respect you could go a long way.

    Anyway, I will keep you in my prayers. You inspire me, hopefully all the well wishes and great suggestions are letting you know how many people care about you. Grace

  • Nancy Lewis

    Kelly
    I can relate to your down time, as the heat here in NC (high 90′s, humid) for the last two months has taken a toll on me and I have been dizzy, ready to sleep any time. Blogging has also taken a back set for me. The thing that has keep me going is being in God’s Word, prayer and trusting Him. Praise God today is cooler and I am feeling better and I know you with also be up to full speed again soon.

  • http://www.smallbusinessstudy.com Sharon McMillan

    Kelly I know what I do when I’m in a funk about my business – I head over to you, so to speak. Whether it’s a WAHM Talk Radio podcast or MM, that warm, non-fluffy, conversation helps to get me back on track.

    I can’t suggest much more than what has already been said in these comments, however, I think it’s worth repeating that you’ve had a year of GREAT change and you likely need to acknowledge that in a real, meaningful way. From your son leaving home to go off to school to your mom’s passing, that’s a lot on your heart.

    Take good care of “you” and pamper yourself by enjoying the really wonderful things that you love right where you live – from your network of great friends (yes I’m jealous of your tight girlfriend network up there) to what must be one of the most beautiful areas of state – take some quiet time and enjoy it.

    I’ll be keeping you in my prayers,

    Sharon

  • http://www.hippiespelunker.com lisamariemary

    I’ve been struggling myself for the last few months and it is really getting old. I could sure do with a nice big cup of MOJO!! ;) I have been listening to a lot of spiritual speakers (tapes that I find online of the 12step group I’m a member of) and also from Unity.FM. And I also plan to listen to some audios from Gina Parris, like her Mindset Mastery mini course you can get here: http://www.builttowincoaching.com/ I know that last year when I listened to that it really helped me get out of the muckadoo. I’ve really had enough of the sloshy muckadoo for now.

    But wow, Kelly – you really have been through a lot here recently, as Christine pointed out. I’ve always seen you as someone who does take things in stride, not a softy like my ridiculously mushy self. I’ve admired your strength. And so I imagine (well, I know, from being married to a guy who’s strong like that) that it is even harder for ya’ll to let yourselves process all of that stuff life tosses at us. I’m glad you’re seeing that – and heck! You know what, I think just making this post – allowing yourself to be vulnerable with us – is a GIANT step in the right direction. And kind of like, you let your ‘softy’ out for a bit, you know?

  • Jenn

    Get out your beach ball and your sharpie…sometimes it’s going back to basics that works best at getting the juices flowing again. :-)

  • Kelly Mccausey

    LOL! My beach ball is always rolling around here somewhere :)

  • Kelly Mccausey

    Thank you Sharon :)

  • Kelly Mccausey

    I am definitely (uncomfortably) in touch with my inner softy…

  • Kelly Mccausey

    I am so grateful that we haven’t had the high temps up here in northern Michigan. If we had that added to the mix I’d have been checked out completely for sure.

  • Kelly Mccausey

    Thanks for that encouragement – it means a lot!

  • Kelly Mccausey

    We will be firing up the Monday Morning Breakthrough calls after Labor Day – I really look forward to that.

    Thanks Grace :)

  • Kelly Mccausey

    Thanks! I did get out for a Girls Night last week – it was refreshing :)

  • Kelly Mccausey

    My kid is 20 and he’s definitely my cheering section :)

  • http://twitter.com/AureliaW Aurelia Williams

    Ack, how did I miss this…

    Girl.. Mojo Schmojo! This is a case Where I see that Mojo is Overrated (yes, I said it)

    Kelly, you have mojo so far deep in your bones, heart and soul that you will never totally lose it. It is just dormant for awhile as you focus on things non-mojo related.

    Who says you are unproductive anyway… I am sure that just because you may not be at your MAC or laptop building sites, working on products or writing articles that you’ve still you’ve still been productive in many other areas!

    I know you are a Godly woman so suggesting you pray is like asking you to breathe but really, give it to God, know your Mojo is still there and do some outsoursourcing to be sure your cash flow stays where you’d like it to be and then focus on Kelly (the non-mojofied Kelly) until your Mojo wakes up again.

    Beating yourself up wont help

    Wishing your Mojo back wont help

    I think a good dose of “Going with the flow” is in order. Perhaps keep a notebook and jot down ideas as they come to you and just act on them when that mojo awakens.

    Love ya!!

    Aurelia

  • http://twitter.com/AureliaW Aurelia Williams

    Ack, how did I miss this…

    Girl.. Mojo Schmojo! This is a case Where I see that Mojo is Overrated (yes, I said it)

    Kelly, you have mojo so far deep in your bones, heart and soul that you will never totally lose it. It is just dormant for awhile as you focus on things non-mojo related.

    Who says you are unproductive anyway… I am sure that just because you may not be at your MAC or laptop building sites, working on products or writing articles that you’ve still you’ve still been productive in many other areas!

    I know you are a Godly woman so suggesting you pray is like asking you to breathe but really, give it to God, know your Mojo is still there and do some outsoursourcing to be sure your cash flow stays where you’d like it to be and then focus on Kelly (the non-mojofied Kelly) until your Mojo wakes up again.

    Beating yourself up wont help

    Wishing your Mojo back wont help

    I think a good dose of “Going with the flow” is in order. Perhaps keep a notebook and jot down ideas as they come to you and just act on them when that mojo awakens.

    Love ya!!

    Aurelia

  • http://focusintoprofits.com Amel [Focus Coach]

    Hi Kelly,

    I really feel your pain. My advice to you is to take 2 or 3 days away from your computer. Start reading a new book about a topic that really interest you and do not open your emails, do not think about tweeting or facebooking or updating your blog or any work/social related task.

    I now it’s going to be hard to stay away from your computer but believe me…you’ll feel less confused and foggy and more focused and rejuvenated after spending these 2-3 days away from your computer. You’ll have new ideas and projects coming out from nowhere, and you’ll feel clarity!

    I wish you the best in life,

    Amel.

  • Sarahzeldman

    Kelly,

    I kind of agree with everyone that a total break for rejuvenation may be in order here. If you can afford to take a break and live off of the work already have out there for a while — do it! I have a feeling that amdist your break, an idea will come and WHAM! Your mojo will return and we’ll have to tear you away from your computer again….

    But if, for whatever reason, you cannot take a complete vacation, then just try to do at least one small project, or part of a project each day…

    My mojo has been up and down since my husband died, so I know this terrain well. I sometimes I am so focused and on tops of things — then life challenges get in my way and I lose momentum and confidence and I find myself procrastinating and not making progress. When this happens, I try to do at least a small thing everyday, even if I just start with a Brain dump of what need to be done and organizing the to-do list and the resources I need. I find that this way, little by little, I conquer my fears and “get back on the horse” and with in a week I’m generally back to focusing and being productive again.

    I know that fear may not be your issue, it’s probably more like “burnout” — which is why a total break may be in order — but if you can’t take a total break, then at least do small bits and you’ll probably build up your mojo over time…

  • Kelly Mccausey

    The non-mojofied Kelly thanks you :)

  • Kelly Mccausey

    Amel, I’ve done this recently – it does help :)

  • Kelly Mccausey

    Thanks Sarah :)

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