21 Ways to Get Out of a Funk 🥺
Small steps, big shifts – your guide to moving from stuck to empowered.
In this newsletter, we’re unpacking:
21 actions to help you get out of a funk
An invite to our June 13th Networking & Coworking Day
~ AMA: How Do I Get Out of a Funk? ~
Feeling stuck? Not the “meh, I’m tired” stuck. But the kind where you’re second-guessing, and wondering how everyone else seems to have it all figured out… while you’re still in your duvet wondering what’s next.
I’ve been there, did that, got the burnout to prove it.
What changed? It wasn’t an overnight fix or an expensive course. But through 21 small actions I repeated, reshaped, and built upon. These steps didn’t just change my situation, they helped me change me.
So if you’re feeling stuck, unmotivated, or just off balance, here are the 21 actions that helped me find purpose again:
21 Actions That Helped Me Get Out of a Funk
Write down your strengths and skills (you’ve got more than you think)
Get clear on your ideal day and what you don’t want anymore
Invest in a hobby that’s not about hustle
Reach out to someone who inspires you (with a clear ask)
Switch up your podcast, book, and show rotation (diversity = inspiration)
Say yes more often. Especially when it feels slightly scary
Set boundaries. Stick to them. Repeat.
Create accountability for yourself (weekly check-ins, anyone?)
Skill swap with a peer – you grow and gain feedback
Volunteer your time (giving back often gives you clarity too)
Visit a new area, even if it’s 30 mins away
Learn from people smarter than you (humbling AND motivating)
Remind yourself: you deserve better
Create a 12-month vision and reverse-engineer your milestones
Block out time to tackle boring-but-important admin
Mute, block or unfollow accounts that drain you
Enjoy the mess, it’s part of the figuring-it-out process
Build your network with intention, not panic
Ask for help (without shame)
Be brave enough to DM or speak up and say: “I’d love to get involved”
Start a brag bank, a spreadsheet of your wins, big or small
Why These Actions Matter
The goal isn’t perfection, it’s progress.
These aren’t big flashy life hacks. They’re micro shifts. The kind of shifts that feel small in the moment but compound over time. Remember James Clear 1% better daily - same vibe! One good conversation. One honest journal entry. One bold DM. That’s all it takes to start the ripple effect.
And honestly? Most of these actions didn’t cost me a penny. What they required was energy, intention, and a willingness to believe change was possible – even before I had proof.
Fast forward to now: I run a global community (hi, LMF Network!). I've written a book, built my app, hosted stages across the world, and most importantly… I’ve found joy in the journey.
How to Start Where You Are
Don’t overthink it.
Pick one action that feels doable this week. Maybe it’s writing down your skills. Maybe it’s muting an account. Maybe it’s reaching out to someone who’s one step ahead.
Whatever you choose, trust that the smallest step can become your turning point.
Takeaway
You don’t need a full plan to begin. You just need the courage to take one step toward a different outcome.
These 21 actions helped me feel empowered, build momentum, and design a life I’m proud of. I hope they help you feel a little less stuck and a lot more seen.
Let me know which one you’re starting with. I’ll be cheering you on and waiting for your comments!
x Sonya
📰 Our Networking & Coworking Day is Back!
On the topic of taking a step forward, we’re hosting a day of coworking and conversation on 13th June in Shoreditch.
Topline agenda:
🕙 10 AM – 3 PM
🎓 3 workshops included
🌿 Coworking in a chilled, creative space
Come along to bounce ideas, learn from each other, and cowork with a supportive community. In the past, our events have generated work, new jobs, collaborations, and long-lasting friendships.
BTW - you don’t need to be employed to attend (as many of you have asked), come for the conversations and leave with a new community.
Next steps:
🔗 Grab your seat: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/coffee-conversations-coworking-in-london-tickets-1347958473079?aff=oddtdtcreator
📩 Get in touch if you'd like to be a speaker! Email me: hello@sonyabarlow.co.uk
Something to Learn
📖 How People Are Really Using Gen AI in 2025 (AI is being used for therapy) | Harvard Business Review – Learn here
🎙️ Show I loved this week: When Life Gives You Tangerine (Netflix) - a beautiful and emotional story of love, perseverance, and the journey that life takes us through. Watch here
📚 Book to check out: Paris Hilton’s Memoir - really into this and her experience with ADHD! Read here
What Should We Answer Next?
Got a question you’d like us to tackle? Send us your AMA (Ask Me Anything) for next week’s discussion!
LMF Network: Building Knowledge and Networks for Workplace Success
At LMF Network, we’re dedicated to empowering individuals and organisations through education, community and content. Founded by Sonya Barlow, CEO.
3 ways to work with the LMF Network:
Work - Business consultancy, educational workshops, training & development.
Community - Download the app for mentorship, discussions and learning courses.
Conversations - Check our social posts on networking, AI and the future of work.
Contact Us:
📧 Email — hello@lmfnetwork.com
💻 Follow US — LinkedIn | Instagram | X | TikTok | Facebook | Youtube
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