Maybe you’re functioning well enough. You’re getting out of bed, logging on to work, returning texts, and taking care of what needs to get done. However, this is just the surface. From the outside, everything may look fine. Internally, though, something may feel off. You may not feel energized or excited. Concentration can feel harder than it used to be. Days may blur together, and life can feel more like something you’re getting through rather than something you’re actively living. If this sounds familiar, you may be experiencing languishing.

This emotional gray can be confusing. You may tell yourself that you should be grateful or that others have it worse. Yet, there’s a persistent “blah” feeling. This can feel like a sense of stagnation, emptiness, or disconnection that’s hard to name. Understanding what languishing is can be an important step toward feeling like yourself again.

What is languishing?

The term languishing gained wider attention after psychologist Adam Grant described it as a “state of stagnation or emptiness.” It exists somewhere between mental wellness and mental distress. When you feel like you’re languishing, you may not be in crisis. However, you may not be thriving either.

Languishing isn’t new, but it has become more popular in recent years. Unlike emotions like fear or grief, languishing tends to feel quieter and more chronic. It’s often described as the emotional flatness that can set in after long periods of trying to cope, adapt, and push forward without much relief.

Since languishing doesn’t always come with obvious or dramatic symptoms, it can be easy to overlook or minimize. That doesn’t mean that it is insignificant, though.

How languishing feels

Languishing can show up differently for everyone, but some people describe similar patterns. You may notice:

  • A persistent blah feeling or emotional numbness
  • Difficulty concentrating or staying engaged
  • Low motivation, even for things you used to enjoy
  • A sense that time is passing without much meaning
  • Feeling disconnected from your goals, relationships, or sense of purpose

Research suggests that people who are languishing may be more vulnerable to a future depressive episode. They may also be more likely to disengage from work or daily activities over time. Therefore, recognizing languishing for what it is can help validate your experience and open the door to support.

Overcoming languishing and finding flow

One concept often discussed in relation to languishing is “flow state.” Flow describes a psychological experience where you become fully absorbed in an activity. This can lead to losing track of time and deep engagement.

Flow state can happen during many everyday activities, such as:

  • Creative hobbies like writing, art, or music
  • Reading a book or watching a captivating TV show
  • Playing games or puzzles that are challenging but manageable
  • Learning a new skill or working toward a small, achievable goal

In addition to flow, experiences that create a sense of progress can be especially helpful when you’re languishing. Completing tasks, setting small goals, or starting manageable projects can gently counteract the feeling of stagnation.

Moments of flow and progress can help interrupt the flatness of languishing and help restore a sense of momentum.

How therapy can be supportive

One of the challenges associated with languishing is that it doesn’t always feel “serious enough” to seek help. Some people may assume therapy is only for moments of crisis or severe mental distress. In reality, therapy can be supportive at any point along the mental health spectrum.

Talking with a licensed therapist can provide space to explore feelings of emptiness, disconnection, or lack of motivation. Therapy may help you better understand what’s contributing to your current state, identify sources of meaning or engagement, and reconnect with parts of yourself that feel distant.

Since languishing can quietly lower motivation and awareness, having professional support can make it easier to notice patterns and take steps toward feeling better.

Takeaway

Languishing can happen when life feels muted. This may look like trying to get by but not being truly engaged. It’s common and worthy of attention. Naming the experience can be helpful, especially when it helps you recognize that you don’t have to feel this way forever.

Whether through finding moments of flow, creating small wins, or seeking support through therapy, there are ways to move out of stagnation. If you’re curious about therapy, findmytherapist.com can help you explore local options and find a therapist who fits your needs. Therapy can help you work toward a fuller sense of well-being, wherever you are on your mental health journey.