Staying Motivated

 

As Dory says, 'Just keep swimming'.                                   Image:Marie Vonow

Sometimes I find it difficult to get motivated and stay that way. I know other people also experience this and in fact for some it is an ongoing problem. You may have a big goal or more than one, but you don't feel motivated. Or you may just find it difficult to be motivated to do routine household tasks. Perhaps you can't be bothered looking after yourself.

Here are some suggestions of things that may help.

• Value your health. It's a good place to start. If you feel unhealthy, tired, hungry or aren't getting much exercise it is going to effect your level of motivation.
• Remember to eat regular healthy meals. I have no trouble remembering to eat but sometimes need to be more aware of what I am eating or how much.
• Get enough rest. Regular sleep times are a good idea. I tend to stay up too late but I am working on this.
• Make time for fun. It isn't just for kids, however
• avoid time wasters such as too much of anything. Spending time in front of a screen watching television or entertainment on the internet has its place but too much isn't a good thing, but I think you were already aware of that. I do find a good series on Netflix can be rather addictive, just one more episode...
• Take a break and go for a walk or catch up with a friend. Perhaps go away for the weekend. I find I benefit from a change of scene and even a few hours (if I can't manage a weekend) in a different place can make me feel recharged. 

  

  Time at the beach recharges and refreshes me making me feel more motivated   Image:Marie Vonow
• Socialise with positive people and limit time with those who have a negative influence.
• Spend time with people who share common interests.
• Join a group or club of people who can provide helpful advice and keep you motivated. A study buddy may help if you are doing a course. I benefit from time with my writers' group.
• Attend a one day course about motivation, getting organised or whatever you need to help you. I have attended a few one day sessions at WEA in Adelaide and come away feeling enthusiastic.

  

   Workers Education Centre in Adelaide has plenty of courses, some one day in length. Image:Marie Vonow
• Focus on your end goal. Why are you doing whatever?
• Setting goals is a great idea but do keep them achievable. Make sure they are your goals, not someone elses.
• Don't set too many goals.
• To increase your confidence, think back to things you have already achieved. I find this helps me when I doubt my ability.
• Instead of waiting until you have achieved your end goal (finished the whole course, painted the house or whatever) reward yourself for each step you complete. Big jobs can seem never ending and overwhelming.
• Don't compete with others or compare your achievements to theirs. It may help to limit your time on social media or googling people you went to school/college/uni with if you find these activities tend to depress you.
• Read inspiring quotes. You won't agree with every quote you read and actually I think some are unrealistic so choose a few that motivate you and copy them down,
• Write out a couple of suitable affirmations and repeat them regularly
• Listen to inspiring podcasts or watch motivational videos on the internet, but make sure they motivate and inspire you, don't feel you have to achieve the same as or better than someone else.
• Review your goals and progress from time to time. If you realise you have bitten off more than you can chew, change your goal to something achievable. Or break your goals into smaller parts and spread them out over a longer period of time. For example, perhaps part time study is more achievable.
• Cut yourself some slack. No one is motivated all the time.