Hi Paul,
Thanks for your reply. I can relate to a lot of what you said. For one thing, the medication has for the most part kept me on an even footing, but as you said, it alluded to, it doesn't really leave me feeling very alive either.
I do realize that there are certain other things that can make a difference as you mentioned. For one, I use to be very active sports-wise until I got out of university. I kept running almost daily for some time but after a while, as with most of these non-medicinal remedies, I either lose interest or motivation or both.
In short it just seems like there's too much you need to tackle to keep on top. For example, I used to frequent the pub far too much for someone with my condition. But with a lot (a LOT) of hard work and help from my doc, I managed to overcome this. Only that instead of it feeling like a victory, which I keep having to remind myself it is, it rather feels like I've just barely scratched the surface.
The various sources I've read about my situation usually mention the same basic approaches to feeling better. Namely, taking your meds (check), not drinking (let's put that at 95%), eating healthy (this is where it starts to breakdown; while I don't eat much junk food, I also can't seem to get myself to have breakfast regularly, or cook much, it just feels too taxing), exercise (again here, it's sustaining any sort of routine that seems impossible; during this time of year, I will often get back into talking walks, or even running/cycling, but inevitably, they just end up being a chore more than an enjoyable activity, and of course, by the time winter rolls back around the bend, you can forget about getting me out of the house).
Lastly, there's another "addiction" that if I'm honest about it, probably doesn't help me, and I'm staring at it right now (my PC). I got my first computer when I was 3 years old (well ok, my dad got it, but I definitely used it more than he ever did) and if anyone has grown up in tandem with the Internet, it's me. Of course I've gained a great deal from this for sure, but at the same time, I probably spend upwards of 80% of my waking hours staring at a monitor (if I include my phone). In other words, instead of focusing my energy on something good for my health, I fall in this trap where I don't have to deal with anyone that I don't want to, I can speak only to those I wish to, I have access to the world, but the world can't get to me, etc...
What has helped you guys when it comes to motivation? Especially when it comes to staying motivated?