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How do I understand the root of my low motivation and procrastination?

Answered by Karmendra Prakash Shrestha, Junior Project Associate at Happy Minds

First of all, thank you for this thoughtful and important question. The first step to solving any problem, worry, or concern is acknowledging that it exists. Recognizing that you are struggling with low motivation or procrastination is already a meaningful step forward because awareness opens the door to change.

Low motivation and procrastination are very common experiences, and while they may sometimes be misunderstood as laziness, they are usually the result of deeper underlying reasons. For many, mental and emotional well-being plays a key role. Stress, anxiety, or depression can leave a person feeling drained, unable to focus, and less driven to complete even the simplest of tasks. At other times, procrastination may stem from perfectionism or a fear of failure, the worry that the outcome will not be good enough creates hesitation and delays. For some, the issue lies in a lack of clarity or meaning. When a task feels disconnected from personal goals or values, it naturally feels harder to engage with it.

Burnout and fatigue are also common contributors, as constant pressure without rest can sap motivation. Even the environments we live and work in, filled with distractions, disorganization, or unhelpful routines, can make procrastination a default response.

If you are trying to understand your own situation better, self-reflection can be very helpful. You might ask yourself: What emotions come up when I think about starting a task? Am I avoiding this because I’m tired, anxious, or afraid of failing? Does this task align with my goals or values? Have I been giving myself enough rest and balance?

Journaling, mindfulness practices, or simply talking with a trusted friend can help uncover patterns in your thoughts and behaviors. It’s also important to remember that while self-reflection is valuable, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Seeking help from a professional can provide you with tools to better understand and manage what you’re going through. Low motivation and procrastination are very common, and there are effective strategies and support systems that can help you move forward.

You are not alone in this, and there is always a way toward greater clarity, energy, and purpose.

On Sept 9, GenZ-led protests erupted across major cities in Nepal, escalating into one of the most devastating periods in the nation’s  history. In just two days, the unrest claimed the lives of more than 50 people and left the government in disarray. 

Iconic buildings, including Singha Durbar, the Parliament House, and several ministry offices, were set ablaze. As the nation reels from the destruction, voices from all fronts—including social media influencers—are being heard. In this context, ApEx spoke with four people to hear their thoughts on Nepal’s newly formed interim government and what hopes they hold for the country moving forward.

Swikriti Koirala, 24

As a GenZ student of International Relations and Diplomacy, I view these protests as a reflection of generational shift in political consciousness in Nepal. Sept 8 was a legitimate democratic expression of young Nepalis that signals the urgency to address underlying grievances of the citizens. I see the current situation as both a challenge to the state and also an opportunity for change. The new government is making efforts to listen and address the demands of GenZ but will deeper institutional reforms be met in the future is the real question. GenZ wants more than promises. We demand action and accountability. The appointment of Sushila Karki as the first female Prime Minister of Nepal is significant, not only for the history it created but also for the potential it holds in reshaping the governance of our institutions. The expectations are high and I think she can bring proper solutions by setting up inclusive dialogue platforms and laying the groundwork for larger reforms. 

Aprila Ghising Lama, 25

The protests marked a turning point in Nepal, showing that GenZ is no longer a silent player in the country’s political scene. They showed just how frustrated young people are with corruption and poor governance. It’s clear that youth voices can’t be sidelined anymore, and their demand for accountability has become a political force in itself. Acknowledging youth demands is a start, but what Nepal needs is long-term governance shifts that address the roots of frustration. Prime Minister Karki’s appointment is a step towards progressive and inclusive governance. Tackling corruption, creating opportunities for youth, and pushing institutional reforms is vital. However, with the level of political discord in the country, her real test will be whether she can rise above the noise and prioritize public trust and accountability. What I want to see are systemic reforms that fix the glitches of corruption and inefficiency, along with stronger youth representation in decision-making. 

Deepshikha Ghimire, 25

The recent protests by GenZ indicate genuine frustration and aspiration for change, yet there are still many unheard voices. Our new prime minister has a duty to steer the nation through this pivotal election phase and ensure equity for everyone. I think she can hear the youth, include them in the dialogue, and assist in restoring confidence in our democracy. I anticipate witnessing her progress toward transparency, accountability, and meaningful youth engagement in shaping our future.

Rohan Maharjan, 27

I was quite shocked by how violent the protests became, and saddened by the lives that were lost during the protests. At the same time, I am very proud of the people for rising against the corrupt government. I expect good things in the future. Our new prime minister has already appointed three ministers, including Kulman Ghising, whom I know we can trust. Appointing non-corrupt leaders who can bring growth and development in each sector is exactly what we need. With leaders like her and Ghising, I believe better days are ahead for Nepal. The major change I would like to see is the complete eradication of corruption at every level. I believe corruption is the root of a country’s downfall. I hope we can finally put an end to corruption, and ensure that taxpayers’ money is used properly such as for the development of good roads, quality education, reliable infrastructure, and access to basic necessities for all Nepalis. 

The other day, our classroom was buzzing with a discussion on “Our Aim in Life.” As usual, most of my friends said they wanted to become doctors or engineers. A few mentioned IT professionals or fashion designers. But I noticed something missing—nobody said they wanted to become a farmer. This gave me food for thought. Nepal is known as an “agrarian country,” yet farming is not considered a dream job by young people. Why is that?

Part of the reason is how society looks down on farmers. Even though farmers work the hardest to feed us all, they are rarely respected. On top of that, government policies have often failed them. Every year, we hear news about dairy or sugarcane farmers not getting paid for months, sometimes even years. Farmers also struggle to get fair prices for their crops. They face problems like poor access to fertilizer before planting season, low yields, and lack of support in modern techniques. No wonder young people hesitate to see farming as their future. It feels like a risky path with little reward.

But should it be this way? I don’t think so. If the government invested more in agriculture, things could change. For example, schools could introduce agriculture as a compulsory subject so students learn its importance from an early age. Farmers could be given proper training, fair market access, and incentives. Programs that promote organic farming and sustainable methods would not only make agriculture attractive to youth but also make our country healthier and stronger.

Farmers are the real heroes of our society. Without them, we would not have food on our plates. They deserve more respect, support, and recognition. It is time we say proudly: Kudos to farmers!

Sushant Chaudhary 

Grade X 

Sanskar Pathshala, Dang

The work of removing the landslide near the Tuin river bridge along the Narayangadh-Muglin road section has started since this morning.

The road section remained closed since Friday evening, after a dry landslide next to the river bridge blocked the road.

The landslide debris removal work started this morning with three machines deployed towards Muglin and two towards Narayangadh, Chief of the Division Road Office Narayan Lamichhane. The road can be put back into operation by this afternoon if there is no further landslide.

The obstructed site is located next to the Tuin river at Ichchakamana Rural Municipality-6.

As a result, passengers and vehicles have been stranded on the road since Friday due to the landslide. More than 10,000 vehicles travel on this road daily.

Meanwhile, Deputy Superintendent of Police Rabindra Khanal, Information Officer of the District Police Office, shared that water and food are being distributed to stranded passengers under the leadership of the district administration.

The price of gold has increased by Rs 1, 100 per tola in the domestic market on Sunday.

According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the precious yellow metal is being traded at Rs 217, 100 per tola today. It was traded at Rs 216, 000 per tola on Friday.

Similarly, the silver is being traded at Rs 2, 620 per tola today.

The Nepal Airlines Corporation is going to operate direct flights from the federal capital, Kathmandu to Guangzhou, China from Thursday.

The NAC is going to start Kathmandu-Guangzhou-Kathmandu flight service for the first time and all technical preparations for it have been completed, said Executive Chair of the Corporation, Yubaraj Adhikari.

The NAC has scheduled three flights every week. After starting the first flight on September 25, the second will take place on September 28. After that, there will be direct flights to Guangzhou every Sunday, Tuesday and Saturday.

The NAC has fixed one-way fare from Kathmandu to Guangzhou at Rs 30,000 and a return ticket at Rs 50,000.

Himalaya Airlines has also been operating regular flights on this route from Nepal while Chinese airline company China Southern is operating regular flights on the Guangzhou-Kathmandu route.

With Guangzhou added as the latest destination, Nepal's flag carrier will now have regular flights to 11 destinations in nine countries. Currently, the NAC has two narrow-body and two wide-body aircraft flying to Doha in Qatar, Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong in China, Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore in India, Bangkok in Thailand, Dammam in Saudi Arabia and Narita in Japan.

There are chances of heavy rainfall at one or two places of the hilly regions of Koshi and Bagmati Provinces today.

With the weather remaining generally cloudy in Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati and Gandaki Provinces, and partly cloudy in the rest of the Tarai regions, moderate rainfall is likely to take place at some places of Koshi and Bagmati Provinces, at a few places of Madhesh and Gandaki Provinces, and at one or two places of the rest of the country, according to the Meteorological Forecasting Division.

Tonight, the weather will remain generally cloudy in the hilly regions of Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki Provinces, and partly cloudy in the rest of the country, there are chances of moderate rainfall at a few places of Koshi Province and at some places of the hilly regions of Bagmati and Gandaki Provinces, and at one or two places of the rest of the country.

The impact of monsoon winds has become weak, while there is a partial effect of local winds in the country, adds the Division.

The price of gold has increased by Rs 800 per tola in the domestic market on Friday.

According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the precious yellow metal is being traded at Rs 216, 000 per tola today.

Similarly, the price of silver has increased by Rs 60 and is being traded at Rs 2, 580 per tola today.