Jayme Hamel
The main thing that holds me back from completing my goals is motivation. I am made aware of something I need to do, perhaps for a class. I think to myself, ‘all I need to do is write half an essay.’ I know how important the essay is, but my overthinking leaves me unable to even approach it. I’ve compiled a few tips that help me (and could help you) deal with a lack of motivation.
1. Make One Goal:
When you’re in a slump, it's often because you've got too much going on or too much to do. You cannot maintain your energy and focus on 2 or more goals; it’s simply not possible. If you make one goal, then it will be easier to complete and, since you’re putting all your energy into that one goal, you’ll be more motivated to complete it.
2. Get Inspired:
Inspiration is possibly the most helpful tool when it comes to motivation. Inspiration takes many forms; whether it be from a video, a book, or your friends and family. Look to someone who has persevered long enough to reach their goal. Read success stories or watch videos from people with similar goals. Once you see how happy they are to have pursued their goal, you’ll want that for yourself too!
3. Tell Others:
None of us like to look bad in front of others. That’s why we’ll go the extra mile to commit to something when we’ve told someone. Now, you don’t have to put your goal on the front page of the newspaper or tell everyone in your social circle, but when you promise someone you’ll complete your goal, you don’t want to disappoint them! Whether or not they encourage you, you’ll want to show them what you’re capable of. Now, even while your motivation comes and goes, you’ll want to stick with it.
4. Start Small:
If you’re having a hard time getting started, it may be because you’re thinking too big. Taking baby steps For example, if your goal is to exercise every day, instead of doing an intense workout 5 times a week, do as little as two minutes of exercise each day. It’s so easy you can’t fail. Make a specific time every day to work out. By the next week you’ll have increased it to 5 minutes, and by the end of the month, you’ll be doing 15-20 minutes every day. If your goal is to wake up earlier, wake up just 10 minutes earlier every week. Because just about anyone can do two minutes of exercise or wake up 10 minutes earlier than usual, starting small gives you a sense of accomplishment that will motivate you to achieve your goal.
5. Focus on the Benefits:
A common problem among people who want to complete a goal is that they put too much focus on how hard it is. Instead of thinking about the challenges that come with it, instead focus on what you’ll get out of it. For example, instead of focusing on how tiring exercise can be, think about how good you’ll feel after and how you’ll be healthier and slimmer in the long run. Remember to engage in positive self-talk; confidence is very important. I believe you will find the motivation to achieve your goals in no time!