We blink, and just like that it's halfway through the first month of the year! Whether you have gone back to school, work, stuck to your resolutions up until now or not, pat yourself on the back.

It's at the beginning of the year where we feel the most productive and focused on our goals for the year. As the weeks go on, we find ourselves starting to make more and more excuses. Breaks are necessary once in a while, but we have to draw the line between excuses and making frequent breaks. Because let's be honest, when you willingly binge watch Netflix the night before a test you're not ready for, that's not a break (we've all done it, don't be afraid to admit it).

Trying to get yourself out of a rut is a difficult thing to do. Here are just some tips that could maybe help you ease yourself out of it.

Refresh your memory of your goals or New Year's Resolutions

Probably the most effective way to get you back on track is to remind yourself why you started in the first place. Reflect on why you thought changing that part of your lifestyle or improving it would contribute to a better well-being. You will most likely feel that same enthusiasm as when you first came up with your goal! Keep reminding yourself this whenever times get rough.

Make a to-do list for every day and/or week

I am personally a huge fan of this habit and I really think it helps me get everything done for the day. I don't know about you, but checking off the boxes is 10/10 very satisfying and I think it will be for you too.

Take a break from technology

Many people have been taking up social media detoxes whenever they feel their productivity levels are stooping low. They come back from their social media detox and explain how it really does work! In a world filled with a lot of technology and relying on social media for many things, it's good to take a break once in a while. Believe it or not, it does mentally affect you. This is something that really does work and that everyone should try at least a few times!

Create a visual that you will see every day

Remember when I told you to remind yourself of your goals? Well, this tip sort of connects with that. Think about your goals again and get a visual representation of each or at least one or two you are struggling to keep up with. Then, either print out the picture or place that as your lock screen so you can be reminded every day what you're working towards. Another idea that has really worked for me since I'm a visual person is creating a vision board. It's an arrangement of pictures or tasks that represent your goals. I place this right in front of my desk so that I can take a quick glance at it whenever I'm not feeling like learning about cellular respiration. If you're not a visual person, you could also create a schedule or write down your goals on a separate piece of paper and place that where you can see every day!

I'm sure there are many more ways to get yourself out of a rut, but these are just a few of my personal faves. I hope this gives you the motivation to ace that task at work or even leave the house to run some errands. Give it your best every day even when times are getting rough!