I'm often asked the question of what keeps me motivated when I'm going through a rough patch.
Well, first thing first, I rarely have rough patches any more. I don't get side effects from my meds, and about the worst I deal with is days when I just can't get the engine started. But we all have those, days when there just isn't enough caffeine in the world to compensate.
But motivation IS an important question, especially for those who have had a bad run with illness and are on hiatus. Staying motivated requires effort, and effort is generated with motivation. Horrible little catch 22, and tricky to get out of the hole.
Firstly, check your surroundings. Are you in a comfortable place? Is it perhaps a bit too comfortable? Are your friends the "come out and let's do stuff" type, or the "I'll come over with ice cream" type? Do you have social activities? Hobbies, interests? You'd be amazed how these small things can spark the motivation fire.
Change things up. Sell your couch and buy a new one. Paint your bedroom. Do something new and different in your immediate vicinity to change how you see the house around you. Maybe dust off some old picture frames, and put your friends or family on your wall. Little changes can make a big difference when dealing with lacklustre will.
Maybe talk to your friends about having a regular catch up that's out somewhere. New surroundings can often be a catalyst for positive action, so maybe let your friends pick the location each time you meet. If you have friends who are more the stay in and comfort type, then perhaps convince them to go to the movies together, or do something quiet and intimate but still in new surroundings.
Think about things that inspire you. Can you draw? Maybe sing? Perhaps you're good at pottery (like me) or you can make bead jewelry. A hobby is a great way to meet new people, generate ideas and get the motivational juices flowing again.
I never answered the original question. How DID I stay motivated in the dark times? I did all these things. Joined a social group. Started a blog. Moved house. It kept me afloat, and it turns out that it led to some amazing things that I'm doing now.
You never know where a small step will lead. But you know where it won't lead - backwards.
