Motivation is something so important but oh so abstract. So firstly, let’s take look at the meaning of this word. It helps us to form a deeper understanding and it creates more clarity. So here is what I found on the net; Motivation, “a reason or reasons for acting or behaving in a particular way.” While the word “motivated” gives you this definition; “someone who is eager to accomplish a goal.” So yes, we kinda need this in our lives if we want to become our dream future self! Preferably most days, right? But what if you wake up and you just don’t feel like it?
How to motivate yourself?
There are many strategies out there to spark that motivation, such as just starting, be kind to yourself, or show gratitude. You probably already have a few up your sleeve for when you feel a little down! Having purpose and knowing what exactly it is that makes you happy is definitely a motivation booster. But there are a few small things, that I find, work best to find that inner motivation! They are actions that everyone can take right now and feel good about! Just remember, this might not work for you as everyone is different, but I hope these tips will spark something inside you so that you can find the motivation you need!
Difference between un-motivated and a bad day?
Before we get into it, I’d like to highlight that I am talking about a MEH day and not a bad day. For me, these are two different things. A bad day is when things are not going right, something happened or you just feel sad. When you experience this, acknowledging and accepting these feelings, is the most powerful thing you can do. Just sit with it and allow it to pass. While being un-motivated, is not having the drive to keep going. We need to motivate ourselves to get back into gear. There is a difference between the two which we have to acknowledge! Below are 5 tips that will support you in the desire to kick some ass! It will make you want to chase your goals and dreams again!
5 successful motivational findings
1. Move yourself to motivation
Right, let’s start with the obvious one, but the oh-so-powerful one! MOVE. Ideally, even outdoors, fresh air is extra points! I know so, cliché, but moving just gets the juices flowing! Often, bright ideas pop up while we run or go for a walk. When this happens, MOTIVATION boost galore! Now, even though everyone knows this, it is not the obvious choice. When I feel un-motivated the last thing I want to do is move, I want to lay down and hide. But, we need to move to break this pattern, what do you like to do? Pilates, yoga, running, boxing, anything that brings a smile to your face, go do it! Feel the difference.
2. Setting Goals
Let’s have a look again at the definition of someone who is motivated, “someone who is eager to accomplish a goal”. Yeah, you noticed it too, we need to have a goal. Why? Well, it brings excitement and it gives you a clear understanding of what you want to achieve. It helps you focus and realize what is significant to you, what matters most. It improves your control of yourself. So when your motivation is lost, go back to your goals and feel the shift in mindset. If the set goals are truly close to your heart, you will get that kick that’s needed to get going! Now a little secret for you, setting goals used to overwhelm me. I found it hard to identify my needs, I was scared to fail and never knew how to begin. Well, this leads me to the next point, keep it small!
3. Small is key
Just like I mentioned here, small is essential. Break everything down, your goals, your responsibilities, your day. When you see it in smaller chunks, it is less overwhelming and you are more willing to tackle it! Once you start, you often keep going without even noticing it. WINNING! Once you tackle something small, you experience this sense of accomplishment and it makes you feel good. This boosts your self-esteem and often that is just what we need. I am enough, knowing that we can do it!
4. Inner-Motivation
Other people can affect our motivation, you know the Debbie Downers or Negative Nancy’s, and don’t forget the Karens! We all have these people in our life that are just bringing us down, intentional or not. So, protecting ourselves from their vibes is important. We need to look internally and remind ourselves of what we value. Reminding ourselves of the important things, such as the goals we have set or what truly matters to us. Doing this sparks our motivation immediately as we remember what we really want and this contributes to our happiness. Self-motivation is most important, we should not rely on outer input. We got this, We just have to believe in ourselves!
5. Motivation Inspiration
Ha, this one might be a little odd for some, but for me, it works. Ready? The good old Quotes. Yep, reading motivational quotes for some reason just gives me that little push to get out of the bluh zone. I have created a board on Pinterest where I can go when needed and scroll endlessly. (While you are there, you might as well just hit follow!) Honestly, after some scrolling, I can feel a change in my mood. At the same time, I press play on my favorite playlist and dance around like no one is watching. MOOD BOOSTED. Check ✔️
These are my key findings for lifting myself up when I don’t feel motivated. I hope they can make a difference for you too! But really, some days it might just not work and guess what, that’s OK. We are often too hard on ourselves and all we need is to pause for a little bit. A moment of Self-care might be just what we need. To make sure we use the right elements, I created a Self-care Thought Sheet, which has prompts to truly understand our needs. Download it here and make Self-care powerful! Being unmotivated happens, just Accept it, Let it go, and try again tomorrow! Every day is a new chance to begin.
There is a difference between giving up and knowing when to take a break
– Truthful Tea Talks
3 thoughts on “How to succeed at self-motivation”