People With Zero Motivation Often Say 6 Sad Phrases Without Thinking

It happens to all of us. We've had a long day and don’t feel like doing any of the things that we actually need to do. This unmotivated slump is perfectly normal for a day or two. Sadly, for some people, it's a consistent feeling. 

Sometimes people with no motivation are good at hiding it, but they will say things that give it away. If you notice somebody you know saying these phrases often, maybe it’s worth checking up on them.

Sad things unmotivated people say without even thinking:

1. 'I'll do it later'

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Lack of motivation can be caused by a few things, but burnout and depression are two major factors. When this happens, it’s easy to just put things off. 

For example, simple chores like doing the dishes or laundry will get pushed down the to-do list when the bulk of your energy needs to be centered on a job or caring for young children. There's also a chance that the task we're procrastinating on is one we don't enjoy, and putting it off for something else is simply an emotional response to that aversion.

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2. 'What's the point?'

Another phrase people with no motivation say a lot is “What’s the point?" Since they have no clear direction, they may not see purpose in tasks like work or school. They probably are thinking about more existential things, like how their job impacts society, if it does at all.

Professor Lindsey Godwin, Ph.D., noted that feeling unmotivated has everything to do with a "longing for meaning." She explained, "If your spark feels dim right now, don’t assume it’s because you’re unmotivated. Chances are, you’re not uninterested in life. You’re just uninterested in going through the motions." She went on to say, "You don’t need more hustle. You don’t need a better planner. You need to remember what moves you. And give yourself permission to start there."

3. 'I'm too tired'

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This is a common phrase among those who are lacking motivation. Of course, part of it could be related to poor sleep hygiene, but if the lack of motivation is chronic, chances are there's more at play.

In a 2015 study, researchers concluded that the first step to increasing motivation is wanting to change. Then it’s about taking practical steps that can actually kill a bad habit. In this case, setting an earlier bedtime and avoiding doomscrolling would be a good place to start.

RELATED: People Who Are Always Tired Despite Getting Enough Sleep Often Struggle With These 11 Hidden Issues

4. 'It doesn't even matter'

It's only natural to get the blues once in a while and start thinking about the bigger picture and how you fit into the world. If those thoughts become a more constant presence, however, and they impede you from being engaged in your normal routine, it could be a sign of depression. 

Don't stress if you find yourself saying "it doesn't matter" when it comes to making your bed on a random Tuesday morning. But if having a tidy room was always a priority and suddenly you don't care about it anymore, there's no harm in talking to someone and diving a little deeper into why you're struggling.

5. 'Why does this always happen to me?'

A question people with no motivation frequently ask is “Why does this always happen to me?” This victim mentality becomes circular thinking that only leads to greater procrastination and lack of motivation.

That's the problem with having a negative view of yourself and feeling like the odds are always stacked against you. It causes self-sabotage. That's not to say that bad things haven't happened to make you feel that way, but it's important to also remember that there are small actionable steps in your control that can move you forward.

6. 'I don't know what to do with my life'

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People with no motivation typically don’t know what they want to do with their lives. And truthfully, it makes sense. These are huge decisions that have long-reaching consequences. 

Not addressing them can do more harm than good, however. Instead of actively trying to figure out a plan, unmotivated people will often just stick with the status quo. If you find yourself in this position, cut yourself some slack. Start small by talking to peers who seem to have an easier time with making life goals. Better yet, start exploring things you enjoy. Take some classes or try a new hobby. You never know where or when inspiration might strike.

RELATED: 11 Specific Tasks Highly Intelligent People Always Procrastinate On

Sophie Bagheri is a writer with a bachelor’s degree in English and theatre who covers lifestyle topics.