What Is Languishing? Understanding the ‘Meh’ Feeling and How to Overcome It

If you’ve been feeling unmotivated, unfocused, or just generally “meh,” you’re not alone. There’s a term for this state of mind: languishing. Coined by psychologist Adam Grant, languishing describes the middle ground between thriving and depression, a sense of stagnation that can quietly sap your joy and productivity. Here’s what you need to know about languishing and how to combat it.

Recognizing the Signs of Languishing

Languishing is often described as a feeling of aimlessness or disconnection. Unlike depression, which can involve intense sadness or hopelessness, languishing is more subtle. You might find yourself going through the motions of daily life, lacking the energy to fully engage with work, hobbies, or relationships. Tasks that once felt fulfilling now seem like a chore, and even small victories may feel unremarkable.

This state has become particularly common in the wake of the pandemic, as many people navigate the lingering stress, uncertainty, and changes to their routines. The tricky part is that languishing can go unnoticed, as it doesn’t always come with the obvious emotional pain of other mental health challenges. However, it can still take a toll on your well-being and long-term happiness.

Why Languishing Happens

Languishing often occurs when there’s a lack of flow in your life — the state of being fully immersed in an activity that brings you joy or purpose. Without clear goals, meaningful connections, or opportunities to grow, it’s easy to feel stuck in a mental rut. Prolonged stress or burnout can also contribute to languishing, leaving you emotionally drained and struggling to regain your spark.

This phenomenon isn’t just about personal feelings; it’s also tied to broader social and environmental factors. Isolation, work-related stress, or a lack of balance in your life can all create the conditions for languishing. Recognizing these underlying causes is the first step toward addressing them.

How to Reclaim Your Energy and Focus

The good news is that languishing isn’t permanent. Small, intentional changes can help you move out of this mental fog and toward a more fulfilling state of mind. Start by focusing on manageable goals that give you a sense of purpose, whether it’s tackling a creative project, learning a new skill, or simply organizing your space.

Building connections with others is another powerful antidote. Spend time with friends or loved ones who uplift you, and don’t hesitate to share how you’re feeling — it can help to know you’re not alone. Engaging in activities that create flow, like exercising, cooking, or crafting, can also reintroduce joy and focus into your routine.

Lastly, give yourself permission to rest. Recovery from languishing doesn’t happen overnight, and taking time to recharge your mind and body is essential. By acknowledging what you’re feeling and taking steps to address it, you can gradually move toward a state of flourishing.