Tips for Motivation

Saturday is tip day and what better way to start then with a list of three tip categories for staying motivated:

1.Develop

It is important to develop realistic expectations for yourself. I find that a lot of times I am most motivated during the “idea” phase of whatever it is I’m about to do and as the reality of what I thought about sets in and the self-defeating behaviors sink in, I become less motivated. One is less likely to become bogged down by developing realistic expectations. In developing realistic expectations it is also very important to develop a plan. Write down what you plan to do. People who write their goals down have a greater tendency to achieve them then those who don’t. If the idea or goal seems far off or far fetched it becomes even more important to break it down into manageable tasks. Design an outline and timeframe of when you realistically think you can accomplish the goal. It is important to note that the outline and timeline is a constantly changing document, but the framework or overall goal will remain the same. 

2. Practice

They say practice makes perfect and in this case the practice you chose will help you achieve your goals. Practice staying focused on the task at hand. It is important to practice staying in the moment and focusing on the goal you have in mind. Practice having a positive attitude towards whatever goal you are trying to achieve. Sticking to the commitment you have made to yourself in order to achieve this goal is also important. Recognize when you feel overwhelmed and commit to working on your goal for a set amount of time, which will increase your confidence, which will help you continue to complete your tasks. Sometimes it can be helpful to take a step back and remember why you are trying to achieve the goal.

                                               

When trying to achieve a goal many outside forces attack the mind. This is a more abstract concept, focused on feelings. These feelings can sometimes be negative and then self doubt sets in. These must be controlled, when you feel upset and depressed your attitude and your mind will be affected negatively; it is as though everything is crashing in on you. One must practice controlling these feelings; try meditating, distracting yourself with something you know excites you, take time to refocus, etc. Feelings of self doubt can be the hardest to suppress, but with practice over time one can begin to master these feelings. 

3. Reward

In order to stay motivated it is important to design a reward system for yourself. Whether you are trying to stay motivated to complete a project, run a marathon, or lose weight it is important to find ways to reward yourself for accomplishments throughout the way. We have been conditioned over time to respond when we are rewarded, the reward itself shouldn’t be the motivation, but it should add variation on your path to achievement. Rewards will you help you steer clear of thinking about what you have left to complete and will help you enjoy the victory in the moment.