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  • Author Author: Fred27
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On a bit of slump

Fred27

I seem to be on a bit of slump when it comes to electronics lately. Just thought I'd ask if anyone else gets this sometimes or has any suggestions how to get out of it. When I say a slump, I mean that I just haven't seemed to find the time - or to some degree the enthusiasm - to get any projects going lately.

 

There are perhaps a few reasons. I was going to mention a few things that have been a bit rough lately, but decided not to. They're probably similar to the stuff everyone's been coping with. I'm not depressed, I'm just sorta lacking the enthusiasm to get on with stuff right now. I've had depression in the past, so know how that can be. It's not that now though - I'm still in a reasonable mood most of the time and enjoy getting out to meet friends when I can, etc.

 

Anyway, it's time to get back on top of things. I almost didn't apply for the Summer of FPGA design challenge. (Not enough time. The DIY job list growing. The usual excuses.) I'm hoping this will give me a reason to kick start things.

  • Hi Fred,

     

    Between the highs of actually being inspired to build something I like to drop back and just salvage components from boards. This keeps me working with electronics. Most of the parts that I salvage are never used. I sort them and store them so I can find them again if needed. When I build a small project for my own use I always try to use the salvage parts first. This makes the salvage process a little more meaningful. I find it relaxing and almost every board has a new interesting part that usually peaks my curiosity and leads me to a small learning adventure. The source for the boards comes from junk electronic devices and I pay a routine visit to the local recycling center where I can buy an armful of boards for a couple dollars.

     

    John

  • in reply to colporteur

    I don't know if I would call reading a vice. image

    It has so many positives.

    It may be the most important thing I can't find enough time to do. (Because when I pick up a book I generally can't put it down until I finish it, which means I don't just need a little time, I need a block of time)

  • Welcome kindred soul. I'm in the doing doldrums myself and thought wow I am not alone.

     

    I find there are peaks and valleys in activity, yet I notice the valleys of inactivity and lack of motivation most. At one point I would fight to try and regain what I assumed was normal and then reach a frantic point were I had no time. I try and take a slightly different approach now. In times of hyper activity and mind numbing calm, I tell myself this to will not last. Instead of seeking to change the situation I pause to more closely examine it and look to understand. Why am I feeling this way? What is different?

     

    I think you made a great first start by talking about it. I don't have a formula that I can share to resolve it. I do confess when I am really low doing something, even if it is a walk or better yet a chat with a friend. I'm guilty of a vice and that is a love of reading. It becomes an escape for some longer term relief. Especially if the book is good.

  • Hi Fred,

     

    I'm in a hobby-electronics kind of slump right now too.

    My excuse is that the renovations have been using up all of my time and energy, but even now that we're taking more time off I'm just not feeling motivated yet.

    I'm not going to push it, and just allow myself to be lazy for a while.

    I do enjoy staying in touch here at element14, so while I'm not on any active project or contest, I'm still exposed to all the great ideas, and the inspiration that comes from everyone here image

     

    Best,

    -Nico

  • in reply to Fred27

    That's great news! Makes a huge difference to well-being, knowing that your work is appreciated, especially during the tough times, since work takes up so much of our lives.