Stuck between seasons? ESTO Group's Head of HR on mid-season fatigue, motivation, and moving forward.
Winter is behind us, but spring still feels like it's taking its time. A lot of us feel unmotivated and stuck in a rut during this in-between stretch. We stall on anything new because we're waiting to feel "ready" for change.
In this interview with ESTO's Head of HR, Nadja Muttonen, find out why change feels hard and how to keep moving even when your energy is low. A few tips can help you take that first step forward.
The in-between season can be tiring and tough. People feel a bit lost — tired, unmotivated, stuck on repeat. Big plans, at work and in personal life alike, often get pushed to "some other time," because we're waiting until we feel ready to move forward.
Starting something new doesn't require waiting for the perfect moment — it requires taking a step forward.
How do you spot the signs of a mid-season rut?
Right now we're in a season change, and mental fatigue comes with it. Winter's slow pace weighs on us, but spring's energy hasn't kicked in yet. That creates a strange feeling — we crave change, but don't have the drive to make it happen. As draining as it can feel, this natural pause is exactly when we need to recharge.
Even when we really want change, our mind can get directly in the way. Doubt, insecurity, or fear of failure can quietly drain our motivation. I've seen it affect people both at work and in their personal lives. The first step is noticing these signals — recognizing that you're stuck at some stage not because of laziness, but because you're afraid.
Fear is a natural defense against the unknown. It tells you: "Don't mess it up. Don't go. Don't spend. Don't be a failure." But more often than not, fear just holds us back from new opportunities and stops us from moving forward. When you notice these feelings, treat them as a signal that something significant is ahead — a new challenge, a new season, a new peak.
Rebuilding momentum
- Without motivation, even the simplest tasks can feel impossible. What helps? Moving forward doesn't require a surge of energy — a structured plan is enough. Planning and breaking tasks down step by step will definitely help you make the progress you want, by making it achievable:
- A plan
When energy is low, a plan gives you something solid to hold on to.
- A plan cuts mental clutter
It creates a sense of control and focus, even during slower stretches of life.
- Now is the right time
Despite spring's slow start, this is a great time to lay the groundwork for something new.
- Finish what's dragging on, or start fresh
At work and in personal life alike, a clear plan turns overload into energy.
- Break it into stages
Smaller steps make progress tangible and achievable.
- Shift your mindset
"When you break a big, intimidating task into stages, you stop asking 'Where do I even start?' and start saying 'I'll start right here.'"
Small wins at work and in personal life
Building momentum doesn't always mean moving forward faster — sometimes it means adjusting your approach and leaning on support. Small, deliberate actions, both at work and in personal life, can bring meaningful improvements:
At work:
- Set one clear, focused goal for the week.
- Group your tasks by priority and focus on one thing at a time.
- Talk to your colleagues — even a short conversation or meeting can make what needs doing much clearer.
- Remember: efficiency usually comes from working smarter, not just harder!
At home or in personal life:
- Rearrange a space you've been meaning to refresh for a while.
- Finish a small task you've been putting off.
- Clear the clutter around you — tidying your home or taking care of your body can help.
Every small win, even one that feels minor, helps rebuild motivation and momentum.
Financial flexibility
Sometimes it's not just energy holding you back — it's money, too. A lack of financial flexibility can stall even the best plans or motivation. Well-managed assets build confidence to develop new projects. So take the time to make smart decisions that help you reach long-term stability. ESTO offers modern payment methods for both online and physical stores, as well as an ESTO credit line to help people turn ideas into action.
If you're feeling stuck right now — don't be afraid to take a step and move forward. Seasonal shifts bring fatigue, but it passes. That spark and motivation will come back. Keep in mind: you don't have to do it all at once. Even small steps can move you toward a more stable, secure future. Be bold, make a plan, keep moving — and you'll get there!