Motivation: it’s something we all desire, though few of us can get motivated and, most importantly, stay motivated, especially when life throws us some setbacks. This is why I have put together the best techniques for getting and staying motivated, so you can reach your dreams and goals faster than ever – no matter what you are facing right now.
How to Get Motivated
How do you get motivated, especially after encountering a snag (or, let’s face it – what feels like a black hole sometimes) in your plan? It’s easier to attain than you may think. These motivation tips, though simple, work like a charm as long as they are carried through:
Act as if you have already attained your goal by practicing (key word here – practicing) the behaviors someone who had already attained it would embody.
Recall the initial thoughts and purpose for what you are trying to achieve.
Create a plan that helps you get to where you want to go. The more interested you are in your purpose, the more likely you will succeed.
Keep a physical reminder of your goal nearby. Whether in your workspace or at home, make sure you have a constant visual reminder of the happiness you will, in fact, attain.
How to Motivate Others
How do you inspire and motivate others to achieve greater goals? There are a few simple techniques that successful team leaders and managers can use that just as easily apply to your friends, and family:
Celebrate their victories – even when they forget to. Encourage others by pointing out the positive. For example, comment on a past success or appreciate the good work they’ve been able to accomplish so far.
Ask how you can help. Whether you are a boss or a friend, you can boost the motivation of others by taking an interest in their needs and offering your help.
Be constructive, not critical. Even if you think others are making poor decisions for themselves in the moment, instead of chastising them, explore options they may want to try and may not have considered from a different perspective.
Motivate Yourself Towards Happiness
Surely, being motivated and being happy are inextricably intertwined, but how can you foster happiness within yourself before attaining your goal?
Remember that everything you do has meaning. It may seem difficult to see the big picture sometimes, but every experience and every task is part of the puzzle.
Do not dwell on mistakes or criticisms. Dwelling on the past won’t fix anything. You can’t change the past, you can only live and act in the present. Comfort yourself with the fact that you’re capable of doing things differently next time as a result of what you have learned.
Breathe deeply and let go of negative thoughts. Negativity stalks us throughout our day. Whenever a worry or concern rises up in your thoughts, take 10 deep breaths. Taking that moment to release the negativity will give you a fresh perspective whether this worry is really important enough to take your attention away from your objective.
Motivate Yourself Towards Health
It is true that the healthier we feel, the more motivated and productive we will be, but sometimes it’s just so hard to get started. How do you stick to a healthy diet and exercise lifestyle? The remedy is never drastic; it just requires a few modifications to boost health and energy:
Start small and devise a realistic diet and fitness plan that works for you.
Make sure to get enough sleep per night: 7-8 hours is an accepted standard.
Modify your diet to include more veggies and fruits, and less sugars and white starches.
Exercise at least 3 times a week at 25 minutes or more. A brisk walk will do! Also, remember that you don’t have to do all the exercise at once. 10 minutes here and there is still good exercise!
De-stress with your favorite activity or hobby when you find yourself overcome with worry. It may be reading a good book, playing some music, or going out for a night with friends. (Just be sure your favorite “hobby” isn’t a destructive one – like excessive shopping, gambling, alcohol or drugs.)
Motivate Yourself Towards Productivity
How can you motivate yourself towards greater productivity? Achieving greater productivity is totally possible. Here are a few tips to boost your motivation and productivity:
Remind yourself of the feeling you get after you complete a task. It feels good, doesn’t it? Hold onto that positive feeling!
Remember the rewards at the finish line. It may be more time, money, recognition, or simply the satisfaction of knowing that you’re capable of completing any challenge.
Enjoy the process as much as the goal. We can get so focused on the goal that we forget the journey of learning a new skill or habit can actually be enjoyable itself. As a result, we can quickly lose our motivation if the goal is not immediately attainable.
As you know, motivation is necessary to getting things done. It is the foundation of discipline. By implementing these quick motivation techniques into your life, you can keep success within reach!