PEACE OUT

The mid-year slump has officially kicked in. Make use of our 10-step guide to getting in touch with a more serene, tranquil you - no more being stressed out!

- Tracy Branfield

You're not alone if you're feeling decidedly unmotivated, so take heart in that. The middle of the year offers the perfect storm of performance appraisals, lousy weather and long-gone holidays (or some that are still in the planning phase). But here's the thing: you will get through it! Here are a few easy tips to help you out.

1 BEGIN WITH A BANG

Have you ever noticed that when you oversleep and are rushed in the morning, you're left feeling pressed for time the entire day? Adjust your morning routine to wake up slightly earlier than usual. Then set aside a few minutes to ground yourself for the day ahead and think about all the things you want to achieve.

2 SILENCE YOUR INNER CRITIC

Would you tell your best friend that she looks like a whale in that LBD, or call her a failure? No way! So why do it to yourself? Negative self-talk drives a wedge between you and your inner peace. Pay attention when you speak to yourself; replace harmful messages with positive reinforcement.

3 COMPARISON IS THE THIEF OF JOY