7 November 2022
“I simply lack motivation” Does this sound Familiar?
We’ve all been there at some stage or the other. Whether it’s the willpower to go to the gym or the drive to finalize reports for work, we’re constantly waiting for that ideal motivation to strike. Unfortunately, though, this never happens. So instead, we put off going to the gym and wait until the very last minute to submit that report. Not quite what we had envisioned, was it?
Despite our best efforts, motivation will only sometimes be available to us. What does this mean, then?
First, we need to find other methods of maintaining our motivation, which may involve something different than waiting for inspiration to strike at the appropriate moment. Instead, we can gain more willpower from strengthening our self-control.
So, let’s get started.
How can increased discipline and other methods help you become “motivated”?
1. Choose to start after 5 minutes
Typically, being motivated means being inspired to start on tasks. This does not require you to put in an hour or more of work (exercise, or whatever you had planned!). Instead, choose to commit to five minutes.
If you utilize those five minutes to begin arranging your life or exercising, you could find that you’re in the right frame of mind to continue.
In addition, it may be good to start small and grow from there, such as by just going to the gym or drafting the plan for your main project. The goal is for your brain to release dopamine regularly as you complete tasks and reach smaller goals, which might act as an incentive to continue.
2. Modify your perspective on the work at hand
According to psychologists, the tasks we are most motivated to complete are those that are intrinsic (i.e., driven by internal causes). In other words, you might need to make a small shift in your perspective to complete tasks for which you lack motivation.
This could entail making the activity more enjoyable or turning your “I don’t want to do that” thoughts into justifications for carrying out the task.
You might not feel like working out, for instance. However, you may delve further into this.
– Why is exercise necessary?
– Do you desire the ability to chase after your kids as they play?
– Discover those reasons, and motivation will appear soon after!
3. Conquer your fears
Sometimes our inner fears and phobias prevent us from starting a task. For instance, we might postpone drafting that letter because we need more experience or proficiency. But when we examine this more closely, we may see that our biggest fear is other people’s opinions of us. So, now we have something to work with! Taking this a step further, we can question, why we need to care what other people think of us.
You may overcome your concerns or fears by breaking them down, giving you the drive you need to complete your tasks.
4. Take a stroll
Not feeling like sitting down to begin that significant work project? Try taking a stroll.
Movement improves blood flow to the brain, which promotes thought and creativity. Additionally, this may give you energy! You can mentally prepare for the work at hand while you walk, which will help you settle into the correct frame of mind before jumping in headlong.
5. Treat yourself to something
The brain is so in love with rewards!
Even while the satisfaction of achievement ought to be sufficient compensation, it seldom serves as our first motivation for undertaking a task. Set up a reward to fool your mind when you finish the project or a portion of it. This can entail a filling and delectable lunch or merely a cup of coffee from your neighborhood café.
Delay in gratification is crucial in this situation. Therefore, delay the reward until the work or a portion of it is finished.
6. Plan ahead of time
Okay, so this one might not be successful “right now.”
However, making agreements with oneself and honoring them can aid in developing self-discipline. Self-discipline is the capacity to act and complete tasks despite how you are feeling or other obstacles that may be in your way.
By adding your tasks to a calendar, you can better manage your time and make sure you have a strategy in place for getting everything done. Additionally, you learn to overcome your emotions and complete tasks whether or not you are motivated.
Make the change to the person you’ve always wanted to be!
So, which approach will you use the next time you struggle with motivation?
Click here and let’s talk about it.
Chat soon,
Jeanetta Cardine
