I’m languishing, what now?

When we launched The Face of Languishing, our goal was to give people a word for the feeling so many of us couldn’t quite name.

And the response was overwhelming.
“I saw your post and thought—this is me.”
“This is what I’ve been feeling for months.”
“My whole team is in this state.”

Naming it is powerful. But now comes the next question:
What do we do about it?

Wellbeing isn’t just a feeling – It’s a practice

The good news? You don’t need to overhaul your life or chase a state of permanent bliss. Moving beyond languishing isn’t about grand gestures. It’s about small, science-backed actions that gently shift the dial.

We teamed up with Beyond Blue to break down what actually works when it comes to improving mental wellbeing. These aren’t just feel-good tips—they’re evidence-based interventions that make a real difference.

How to cope

If you’re feeling meh, not quite right or stuck—start here.

1. Reconnect with your community

Why it works:
Humans are hardwired for connection. Community—whether through friendship, volunteering, or simply sharing space—gives us a sense of belonging, purpose, and perspective.

Try this:

• Message a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while.
• Say yes to that low-stakes social invite.
• Join a local class, group, or volunteer for something you care about.

Sometimes, being around others reminds us we’re not alone.

2. Move Your body (even a little)

Why it works:
There’s no secret in the power of physical exercise, but its usually the first to drop off when we aren’t feeling well mentally. Exercise isn’t just good for your heart—it’s a proven mood booster. Aerobic activity (like walking, swimming or dancing) and resistance training both reduce stress, improve energy, and elevate overall wellbeing.

Try this:

• Stretch for 5 minutes between meetings.
• Take a walk around the block after lunch.
• Do one yoga pose or jump into a 10-minute workout on YouTube.

Tiny actions count. Start with movement, not motivation.

3. Make space for creativity

Why it works:
Creative expression—drawing, music, dance, pottery—helps you tap into a flow state. It quiets the mind, unlocks emotions, and builds confidence. You don’t need to be ‘good’ at it. You just need to do it.

Try this:

• Doodle for 10 minutes with no plan.
• Dust off that old keyboard or guitar.
• Join a casual art class, even if it scares you a little.

Creativity can be serious medicine for a languishing mind.

4. Practice the science of positivity

Why it works:
Positive psychology isn’t about toxic positivity—it’s about noticing the good. Practices like gratitude and kindness activate brain regions linked to wellbeing, and shift our focus away from stress and scarcity.

Try this:

• Write down three things you’re grateful for every morning.
• Compliment someone.
• Do something kind without expecting anything in return.
• The effect builds over time. It’s like emotional strength training.

The takeaway: do something small – today

The trap of languishing is that it tells us nothing will help. But science says otherwise.
The smallest action—stretching, sending a text, doodling on a napkin—can start a chain reaction toward feeling better.

As author James Clear put it:

“Success is the product of daily habits—not once-in-a-lifetime transformations.”

Let wellbeing be something you do, not just something you hope for.

Want more?

Need more info on Languishing? Visit our page here that includes our recent research findings + more. Our workplace wellbeing programs go deeper into the tools and strategies that help people move from languishing to lasting wellbeing. If you’re ready to support your team or yourself—email us for a free consult and let’s talk.