I’m struggling to find any motivation

Q I’m finding it hard to motivate myself and, although I have lists of things I should do, whole days go by and nothing is accomplished. I’ve not been at the top of my game since the first lockdown. Sharon, Basingstoke

A I think we can underestimate the effect of COVID-19, and you’re not alone in finding it hard to galvanise yourself into action. Let’s think about your list. What kind of activities are on there and how long have they been there? Which ones would give you joy and which would feel like an ‘ought to’? I suggest you categorise them. Anything that has been on there longer than three months should be taken off, as you’re very unlikely to do it. Now look at the joys and chores and decide to do one of each maybe every day. Do the joys first, as just the act of completing a task, especially if you liked it, will give you the energy you need to tackle something less interesting. If there are no joys, add a few, as no one wants to spend their day feeling miserable.