Motivation is hard... We've all struggled with it at some point in our lives. Whether it be to do our homework for math class, to go to the gym, or even sometimes just to get out of bed in the morning.
Lack of motivation can stem from a few possible reasons:
1. You Just Don't Want To Do It.
If it isn't something we necessarily enjoy or look forward to, of course we're going to hesitate to jump into action. Our bodies are sending us signals saying "Hey! You don't like this, remember?!"
2. Depression
Lack of motivation is a common symptom of a mental illness. This isn't to make you freak out and go into hypochondriac mode! But people who do suffer from Depression and other mental illnesses find it even harder to get up and do the things they need to; sometimes even the things they usually enjoy.
3. Laziness
I'm not even going to sugar coat this one... Some people are just plain lazy.
So you find yourself missing that little kick in the butt. You know, the one everyone else makes look sooo easy. Here are a few tips to try to help you get motivated:
1. Set goals.
Setting actual goals gives you something to aim for, rather than just jumping into a black hole of routine changes. Write them down so you can see them in front of you. These are a great motivational tool, but it is very important to remember not to beat yourself up if you don't meet every single one! You just have to keep trying until you succeed. (I know that sounds cheesy but its true!)
2. Change your mindset.
A simple change in your attitude and your perspective makes a huge difference. Not just with your motivations levels but in the rest of your life as well! Positive thinking is much more rewarding and it allows you to feel good about the choices you make. Try to look at your goals through a hopeful lens. Tell yourself you can do it, even if you have to say it out loud.
3. Schedule! Schedule! Schedule!
Treating your goals as things that you NEED to get done and not just optional makes it harder for you to ignore or abandon them. Incorporate the activities into your schedule. Pick a time slot for them and stick to it.
4. Reward yourself.
Pick rewards that you will get excited about, and let yourself enjoy them every time you meet a goal! Like going shopping? Save that trip to Target for when you earn it. This will push you past the "Ugh, I don't want to do this..." to "I can't wait to get this for my hard work!"
5. Get a friend to join you.
Having another person there to push you and pressure you a little is a great way to stick to your goals. Seeing other people succeed is extremely inspiring and it will make you want to get up and make it happen! The key is to pick someone who will work hard along side you, not get over competitive or, even worse, not work hard at all. This will only slow you down.
Those are my tricks and tips! I use them every day and they have helped me accomplish so much. I hope this helped and I wish you luck in making everything happen; because all good things take time, patience, and motivation!
