Don’t tell, but I usually write about things I need to hear myself. There are so many times I procrastinate. It may be because I’m just tired, don’t know how to do something or maybe because it’s simply a habit. However, as we know, there are times when we have to motivate ourselves or we will end up stagnant. If nothing changes in our lives, it doesn’t mean that things stay the same--it means we’re allowing our dreams and opportunities to die. Here are some tips on how to stay motivated when all you want to do is go back to bed.
1. Remember that the small steps are still steps
As long as you’re making steps forward, it doesn’t matter how big or small the step actually is. Sometimes the biggest step we can make is actually deciding to take it.
2. Adjust your goals
It's important to not only realize you can't do everything imaginable you want to do in one day, but also to make goals that you actually want to achieve, and not just have to. As adults, we're going to make decisions we don't want to make, but sometimes adding a stop to your favorite froyo place after a long day is just what you need.
3. Involve others in helping you achieve your goals
Realize that not everyone will support your goals. Sometimes this is for selfish reasons and other times it's just because they might not be able to. One of the most useful pieces of advice my favorite professor gave me was this: Hire a "Board of Directors" in your life and realize that the important people in your life are there for a reason, but if they're not helping you be and do better, you're allowed to "fire" them.
4. Just keep swimming
We've heard it countless times, but if you think about the meaning behind this simplistic phrase, it packs a punch. Keep moving, never stop, and never give up. There are times when I fail to motivate myself because I'm afraid to move forward, but choosing to not move forward doesn't mean I'm standing still--it only means I'll be moved by forces beyond my control, versus on my own terms.
5. Don't look back in regret
Sometimes I fail to motivate myself when I fear that I'll make mistakes. However, we all need to realize that the true failure in life isn't making mistakes--it's being afraid to make them. When we choose to not make a decision due to fear of it being the wrong one, we cheat ourselves out of a possibility and furthermore we cheat ourselves out of a learning experience.
6. Don't forget to do this
Breathe. You must breathe. This is something I'm particularly bad at--remembering that sometimes that's all I need--just a few moments to myself. Sometimes I take a few moments before class when it's completely empty to just close my eyes and put away the phone. Other times I need to just cuddle my pillow for a minute--or take a power nap. However it is you relax, make time for that in measured amounts throughout the week.
7. Not everyone moves at the same pace
Not only do we all go our own ways in life, we all move at a different pace. It's not our job to compare our walk of life with someone else's--we should focus on doing the best for ourselves and those in our lives, and if it's not what someone else would choose for themselves, that's okay too.
8. Be kind to yourself
It's okay to sometimes feel like all you want to do is Netflix and Chill--and by that, I mean, watch Netflix, eat home-baked goods and curl up with your favorite furry friend. Motivating ourselves should occur along with inspiration, support and progress--not shame, self-deprecation and guilt. Next time you need that extra motivation, just look inward for strength, breathe, and take that step forward.
