Motivation can be an elusive animal. We know we need it in order to successfully achieve our goals, but there are times when it is nowhere to be found. And when that happens, everything else feels “off” too. Part of the reason for this is that, like with many things in our lives we have been socialized to look for our motivation outside of ourselves. In truth, motivation comes from within, and we must learn to keep ourselves motivated.
Your motivation is as unique to you as your DNA. What motivates you and what motivates me will be completely different. But even so, there are things we can do to find and keep our motivation. And although we can both use the tips in this article, I’d be willing to bet that the way in which we use them and the results we get will be as different and as individual as we are.
Here are six things you can do to find and keep your motivation…
1. Brainstorm new ways to get things done.
One of the major reasons for losing motivation is boredom. (I can speak from experience on this one.) Routines and everyday tasks get boring after awhile, and it’s very easy to lose your motivation to do them. Even tasks you like doing can sap your motivation if they get to repetitive. Brainstorming new ways to do things can add a new depth or perspective that will make them interesting again. And when you’re interested in what you’re doing, it’s much easier to stay motivated to finish it.
2. Set goals.
This might sound like a no-brainer, but it’s a common reason for lacking motivation. If you don’t know where you’re going or what you’re working toward, it’s very hard to stay motivated. A big goal can be broken down into smaller bite-sized goals, and as you complete each one and cross each it off the list you will feel your motivation increase. Checklists and to do lists are good for this because at the end of the day you can actually see how much you have got done.
3. Be accountable.
Being accountable is another way to find and keep your motivation. If you can be accountable to yourself to make progress every day, that’s great. But many people need a little outside push, so don’t feel bad if this sounds like you. It’s much easier to be accountable to someone other than yourself because it’s human nature to not want to admit failure. I know I’m much more motivated to get things done when I work with an accountability partner because there’s no way I want to be the one that says I didn’t get anything done because I didn’t feel like working that day.
4. Be more spiritual.
It can be a very motivating experience to delve into your spiritual side. Meditating, journalling, or any other type of spiritual practice can provide clarity when it comes to answering life’s bigger questions. This in turn can help to motivate you to keep working toward achieving your goals and living your dreams.
5. Make changes.
There is nothing wrong with making changes when things just don’t seem to be working. If you’ve tried everything else, maybe a change is what you need because the direction you’re heading is not the right one for you. It’s very hard to stay motivated when you can’t shake the feeling there’s something else you should be doing.
6. Stay positive.
Finally, keeping your thoughts positive will go a long way to keeping you motivated whatever you decide to do. It’s no secret that negative thoughts can lead to a lack of motivation. By keeping a positive mindset and getting rid of any negative thoughts that come your way, you will find it much easier to stay motivated and focused on achieving your goals.
Being motivated brings with it a self-fulfilling cycle of more energy and a more fulfilling life, which in turn helps you stay motivated to keep moving forward. Using one or more of the strategies outlined here can help you find and keep the motivation going while you’re busy achieving your goals and living your dreams.
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