Are you really tired or just lazy? Finding the differences for a healthier lifestyle

Did you ever plan to work out or go for a short walk when you come back from work? If yes, how many times did you actually manage to cross it off your task list? If you didn’t, do you blame your tiredness or laziness? 

Truth be told, there are a lot of times when we confuse laziness with tiredness. We cut ourselves some slack thinking we’re tired when in reality we’re just being lazy. You might as well agree that laziness is not a good enough reason to pass on your goals. 

So, this blog is for the times you want to find that motivation to meet your health and fitness goals. 

Exhaustion v/s laziness

Laziness and exhaustion, is there even a difference? They do seem to be similar but they are different in a lot of ways. Laziness has to do with unwillingness to work or do something. It is characterised by disinterest in things, which is usually transient in nature. You may feel lazy because you feel bored.

Conversely, burnout is characterised by a state of emotional or physical exhaustion. It may also involve a loss of identity and a sense of reduced accomplishment. It stretches beyond a transient phase.  Additionally, you may also experience sensations of pain in some parts of the body if you are particularly exhausted. 

Let’s look at these signs closely 

Signs you are exhausted and burnt out 

Lack of motivation all the time

You’re more likely to feel demotivated when you are exhausted and burnt out. Demotivation here may not be a transient phase, but you may feel it all day long. This is your first distinguisher. 

You are also cranky 

When you are burnt out, you may not find yourself in the best mood. You may feel irritated and cranky. Remember, exhaustion isn’t always physical, it can also be emotional. It can take a toll on your emotions and result in mood swings. 

Decreased productivity 

Do you feel your work is getting impacted? If yes, it may be a sign that you are burnt out. You may not be able to struggle to concentrate and work slower all day long if you are exhausted. 

Physical effects 

Physical exhaustion comes with physical effects. You may feel pain in your body when you are physically tired. However, be mindful that you may also experience pain when you do nothing. What we mean to say is inactivity can cause pain too.

Reasons you may feel burnt out 

Poor sleep:

Inadequate rest disrupts your body’s natural rhythm, leading to exhaustion and diminished cognitive function.

Poor diet:

 Nutrition affects energy levels and mood. A diet lacking essential nutrients can leave you feeling drained.

Vitamin deficiencies: 

Lack of vitamins can impact various bodily functions, contributing to fatigue and overall lethargy.

Thyroid issues: 

Thyroid dysfunction can disrupt metabolism, energy levels, and mood, potentially leading to burnout.

Signs you’re just being lazy:

You are finding excuses not to exercise: 

Avoiding physical activity and rationalising it with excuses may indicate laziness rather than genuine barriers.

You’re thinking too much: 

Over analysing tasks can lead to procrastination and avoidance, masking laziness as mental exhaustion.

Helpful tips to fight laziness

Don’t sit for prolonged hours:

Regular movement breaks combat sedentary habits and promotes energy levels. You’re going to feel lazy if you jump off to bed straight away. Instead, keep roaming here and there, even if it involves walking from one corner of the room to another. Trust us, you’ll get more things done if you are on your feet. 

Remember, it’s all in the head:

Changing your mindset and focusing on positive reinforcement can help overcome laziness and tackle tasks with renewed motivation. Remember, you just have to take the first step, and the rest will be history. The first step here is getting up and being on the move. 

Closing thoughts 

In discerning between genuine fatigue and mere laziness, we open the door to a healthier lifestyle. It’s about tuning into our bodies and minds, and understanding what’s truly going on beneath the surface to make wiser choices—whether it’s prioritising rest, nourishing ourselves with good food, or simply motivating ourselves to get moving. So, the next time you’re feeling drained, take a moment to pause and think if you are genuinely tired, or if it is time to shake off that lazy feeling. Your well-being will thank you for it in the long run.

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