Ever go through days where time drags and others it speeds by? What do you notice is the difference between them? For me, when I’m enjoying my activities or are doing things that help me pursue my purpose, time flies by. When I’m working on tasks that feel menial or less inspiring, that’s when it feels like the day has acquired extra time and is moving slower.

What I have found to be helpful during those slower times in recovery is to focus on my one task at hand, avoid watching the clock, and just keep going. Turn on some instrumental music to keep me calm, attend to the task at hand, and it’s completed.

I’ve had to learn some (many!) parts of life and recovery aren’t going to inspire me – and that’s okay. Then in those moments when I find inspiration, they feel all the more special. I’m learning to embrace the special, and let the monotony roll through me. Otherwise, it’s easy for my anxiety gremlin to take over and push me toward lack of motivation and drive.

No more counting the minutes, no more timeline, no more getting stuck in the less exciting tasks. Just keep going.

Kristen Ellis

Kristen has worked in the mental health field since 2013, with a focus on crisis work, substance use services, and bringing a voice to lived experience. Her ambition is to change the way mental health care and recovery is seen and achieved, so to redefine what it means to defeat adversity.