Motivation is the driving force that fuels our actions and helps us achieve our goals. Even when we know we want to achieve something, we all face times when we feel unmotivated and struggle to get started on the tasks at hand. Whether its singing, speaking, acting or nutrition, here are five ways that can help you get motivated and ready to achieve:
1. Set clear goals
Having a clear goal in mind can give you a sense of purpose and direction. Break down your goal into smaller achievable tasks and set deadlines for each task. This will help you stay focused and motivated. Let’s say it’s learning a new song. Break the song down to total number of measures there are in the music. Take that number and divide it up among the days that you have to learn it. For example, you have a week to learn a new song. There are 35 measures in the song, that’s 5 measures a day – that is much more manageable than thinking of tackling the whole song each day. By the end of a week you will know each one of those measures so well because you spent a lot of time on each part.
2. Visualize success
Visualize yourself accomplishing your goal. Imagine how you will feel and the benefits you will gain from completing the task. This can help you stay motivated and focused on your goal. Let’s take nutrition. Visualize having loads of energy and always feeling your best. This will make each time you consume an opportunity to support that vision. A vision of a happy, content and energetic you!
3. Create a supportive environment
Surround yourself with people who support and encourage you. Avoid negative influences and distractions that can hinder your progress. Create a space that is conducive to your work and promotes productivity. We all have that friend who is always cheerleading for us – keep them close.
4. Reward yourself
Set up a reward system for yourself when you complete a task or reach a milestone. This can be anything from treating yourself to a favorite activity or to enjoying some time with a friend – maybe that friend referenced in #3!
5. Take action
Sometimes the hardest part of getting motivated is just getting started. Take the first step, no matter how small, and build momentum from there. Taking action can help you break through the mental barriers that are holding you back. There is a great rule called the 5 minute rule. The idea is that anyone can find the time and have the focus to do something for 5 minutes. Once you are started it’s a lot easier to keep going, so 5 minutes turns into 10, and then into 15, and so on, and so on.
Keep in mind that motivation is not a constant state. It’s okay to have periods of low motivation. What’s important is that you don’t give up and keep pushing forward towards your goals.
