Motivation is critical to success, so it’s easy to see why it’s such a hot topic in so many fields. Experts are constantly on the lookout for new ways to improve everything from student motivation to exercise stimulation.
If you feel stuck, unfocused, and uninspired, you’re probably looking for ways to boost your motivation. When your motivation is at an all-time low, there are things you can do to turn depression into motivation. Many of us get caught up in the ‘getting ready’ process. Simply, we never get started. So, how can we live each day with the clear intention of getting closer to our goals and living a happy, motivated life?
The following steps are guaranteed to give you the energy you’ve been looking for. They break down and simplify the puzzling task of motivating yourself, and will get you on the right track.
Set specific and small goals
Yes, big dreams and big goals are wonderful, but start small. Smaller goals that can be accomplished in a short period of time lend themselves well to motivation. Because the end is always in sight, the payoff comes quickly. Training for a 5K, for example, can take as little as three weeks, compared to most marathon training programs. If you have trouble staying motivated and following through, try 3 weeks of motivation training. Set small milestones, but make sure they are measurable and specific.
Introduce Challenges
When faced with a task, which do you find more motivating? Do something simple that you’ve probably done a hundred times and could probably do in your sleep. Try doing something that is within your capabilities but requires learning something new? The first option may be the easiest for many people. But the second is likely to sound more interesting and motivating.
Make a mantra for yourself
Were you under the impression that mantras were only for yogis? Reconsider your position. A mantra is a phrase that is repeated over and over to establish a positive mindset. They can be quite beneficial in terms of keeping your motivation and spirits up. Make a statement that has a strong emotional resonance for you. It might be as basic as “I am strong, and I will overcome this,” or it can be more imaginative. Every morning, begin by reciting your mantra aloud to yourself. The more you repeat it, the more you’ll believe it!
Avoid visualizing success
One of the most common motivational tips is to simply visualize success, but research suggests that this may be counterproductive. The issue is that people frequently visualize themselves achieving their goals but fail to recognize the effort required to turn them into reality. By imagining you’ve accomplished your goal, you’re actually draining the amount of energy you have available to devote to the task.
Make a public commitment
It’s easy to lose motivation and slack off as an individual. We are eager to absolve ourselves of responsibility, postpone, and find excuses to abandon our ambitions. This is where Facebook can help! In fact, any kind of public stage will suffice. Get on your soapbox! Make a commitment to your goals by telling your friends and family about them. This will not only provide you with a support system but will also make you feel more responsible for attaining your objective.
Face your fears head-on
Fear is the complete obstacle course if pessimism is an impediment to motivation. Fears come in all shapes and sizes: fear of heights, failure, and public speaking, to name a few. People would rather be in the casket than give the eulogy, according to Jerry Seinfeld. It’s incredible! People are more terrified of dying than of having to face their fears in front of an audience. Fear, whatever it is, is one of the leading causes of individuals abandoning their objectives and dreams.
However, many people are unaware that on the other side of fear is confidence. While frightening, confronting your anxieties provides a sense of accomplishment and allows you to expand your horizons. What’s to stop you from facing a bigger fear if you can face a smaller one? You can only get rid of your anxieties by overcoming them, so do so.
If you want to increase your motivation to do something, such as get out of bed early for a run, breaking away from old routines, and introduce new challenges can be an effective way to maintain that motivational spark.
