What I Do When I Feel Lazy

We all have those days—when getting out of bed feels like a battle and doing anything productive seems impossible. I used to feel guilty when I feel lazy, but over time, I realized that it’s normal. The trick is not to stay stuck in that lazy phase.

In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly what I do when I feel lazy. These steps have helped me turn my sluggish days into small wins—and sometimes, into amazing progress. Let’s dive in!

1. First, I Accept That It’s Okay to Feel Lazy Sometimes

The first thing I remind myself is this: It’s human to feel lazy. We aren’t machines. Instead of beating myself up, I try to accept it without judgment. Just this one mindset shift takes away the guilt.

What I do when I feel lazy

2. I Ask Myself Why I Feel Lazy

Whenever I feel lazy, I pause and ask, “Why?”
Am I tired? Burned out? Overwhelmed?
This helps me understand the root cause and address it instead of just forcing myself to “be productive.”

3. When I Feel Lazy I Drink Water and Splash My Face

Hydration is underrated! When I feel lazy and foggy, a glass of cold water and a splash of water on my face give me a quick mental boost.

4. I Make a “Lazy Day” To-Do List

Instead of my usual to-do list, I make a “lazy version”.
This includes only super simple tasks like:

  • Reply to one message
  • Tidy one corner of the room
  • Watch an educational video
  • Do one stretch
    These tiny tasks help me feel accomplished even on slow days.

5. I Use the 5-Minute Rule

I tell myself, “Just do it for 5 minutes.”
Whether it’s cleaning, studying, or working, starting is the hardest part.
Once I begin, I usually keep going longer than 5 minutes.

6. I Watch or Read Something Motivational

When I feel lazy and stuck, I turn to motivational videos, TED Talks, or a favorite book. Hearing other people’s stories or seeing someone hustle inspires me.

7. I Go Outside for a Quick Walk

If I’m stuck in bed or sitting for too long, I step outside. Even a 10-minute walk around the block can refresh my mood.
Nature really helps when I feel lazy and unmotivated.

8. I Avoid My Phone (Especially Social Media)

Scrolling makes me even lazier. When I feel lazy, I try to put my phone on airplane mode or use focus apps like Forest.
Digital distractions are energy-drainers.

9. I Listen to Uplifting Music or a Podcast

Music is a mood changer. I play something energetic or listen to a positive podcast. It slowly lifts my spirits and helps me shift gears.

laziness
10. I Change My Clothes – Even if I’m Staying Home

This might sound simple, but changing out of pajamas signals my brain that it’s time to shift out of lazy mode.
Fresh clothes = fresh mindset.

11. I Clean One Tiny Area

Clutter makes me feel more tired. So, when I feel lazy, I pick one small area—like my desk or one shelf—and clean it.
It gives me a quick win and mental clarity.

12. I Eat Something Healthy and Light

Heavy or junk food makes laziness worse.
I try to eat a fruit, yogurt, or a smoothie when I feel lazy. It gives my body energy without making me sleepy.

13. I Do Some Light Movement or Stretching

I’m not talking about a full workout—just a few stretches or light yoga.
It helps get the blood flowing and gently wakes up my body and mind.

14. I Use Positive Self-Talk

Instead of saying, “I’m so lazy,” I tell myself:

  • “I’m just tired today, and that’s okay.”
  • “I’m doing my best.”
  • “Small steps count.”
    This positive self-talk makes a huge difference in how I feel.
15. I Do One “Feel-Good” Activity

I pick something that makes me smile—a warm shower, sketching, listening to old songs, or even cuddling my pet.
These things help me reconnect with joy.

16. I Plan Something Fun or Rewarding

Sometimes laziness is boredom in disguise.
So I tell myself: “If I finish one task, I’ll watch an episode of my favorite show.”
Having a reward helps me get moving.

17. I Practice Gratitude – Even for Lazy Days

When I feel lazy, I list 3 things I’m grateful for. It shifts my focus from “I’m not doing enough” to “I already have enough.”
Gratitude adds perspective.

when I feel lazy

18. I Talk to Someone Supportive

A quick voice note to a friend saying, “I feel lazy today,” can help me feel less alone.
Sometimes a simple “You got this!” from someone else can give me the push I need.

19. I Remind Myself That Progress Can Be Small

We often think success means being productive all day. But real life includes lazy days, slow starts, and rest.
When I feel lazy, I remind myself:
“Even 1% progress is better than none.”

lazy boy

20. I End the Day Without Guilt

This is important:
Even if I don’t do everything, I let the day end in peace. I tell myself:

“Tomorrow is another chance.”
Rest is part of the process. I don’t need to hustle every single moment.

Final Thoughts: Be Kind to Yourself When You Feel Lazy

Laziness isn’t a weakness—it’s often a signal. It’s your mind or body telling you something: maybe you’re tired, overwhelmed, or just need a break.

The key is to listen to yourself and take small steps. You don’t have to do everything. You just have to do something.

So the next time you feel lazy, come back to this list.
Pick one or two things.
Breathe.
Start small.
And remember—you’re doing better than you think.

Bonus: My “Lazy Day” Toolkit

Here’s a quick list of what helps me most when I feel lazy:

  • A bottle of cold water
  • Uplifting music
  • Clean clothes
  • A 5-minute timer
  • A motivational video
  • My “lazy to-do” checklist
  • Gratitude journal
  • Fresh air
  • Supportive friend

Leave a Reply