How to Motivate Yourself to Work on Your Goals (Even if You Don’t Feel Like It)
“People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing - that's why we recommend it daily.” ―Zig Ziglar
We’ve all had those days when we feel out of sync and just can’t seem to get anything done. Our willpower is at its lowest and we blame ourselves for not doing more.
Running low on motivation is normal once in a while. But if you struggle to find your inner drive daily, you may be dealing with subconscious blockages.
For some, motivation comes naturally and they can move mountains with ease. For others, it’s a process that takes practice and self-discipline.
Lack of motivation can result from past failures, unfulfilled goals or perfectionism, all of which lead to procrastination.
Luckily, you can regain your motivation and feel accomplished again.
Keep reading to discover the best ways to motivate yourself to work, even when you don’t feel like it.
Have a System in Place
Set up a system to help you work productively. Otherwise, you’re wasting your time figuring out what to do next.
Not having a solid plan for your day can leave you unmotivated and overwhelmed.
To solve this, map out your day the night before. Put the plan somewhere visible – on your wall or next to you on the desk. Stick to it no matter what.
This will help you realize you’re capable of doing more than you think. Each completed task will build up your self-esteem and your motivation will flow naturally.
Another way to restore your motivation is to find something to look forward to during the day. Find the ‘why’ in your daily goals, even the insignificant ones. Your motivation will grow when you start doing the things you enjoy.
Being unmotivated can stem from trying to achieve someone else’s goal instead of your own. Make sure you’re in tune with your core desires and values.
Reward Yourself
Having a clear purpose in life gives people a reason to get up in the morning. Whether it’s ramping up sales, achieving fitness and health goals or getting one step closer to a dream, it’s the reward and emotion that keeps them motivated.
You don’t have to wait until you’ve reached all your life goals to feel the effects. You can reward yourself whenever you need some pick-me-up.
Give yourself a pat on the back for a successful workweek. Congratulate yourself when you’ve completed the most important tasks of the day.
Celebrate with a glass of wine, your favorite meal or that new thing you’ve been eyeing for so long. Book that trip you’ve been dreaming of.
If you’re self-employed, you can reward yourself for landing a new big client, sale or deal by giving yourself a bonus. Instead of waiting for others to praise you, give yourself credit for everything you’ve accomplished.
Take a Real Break
So many people forget to take a break or think they don’t need one. This leads straight to burnout.
An unfulfilling job is another reason why you might be unmotivated to do anything.
Taking a break during the workday can actually boost your productivity and retrieve your willpower. We’re talking about a real break, not ‘eating-in-front- of-the-computer’ break.
Take some time to get away from everything and everyone. Whether it’s a weekend away in nature or a tropical vacation, go to a place where you can get your thoughts in order. This will help you reevaluate your values and priorities in life.
If you can't leave town, take a walk to the nearest park or take a yoga class during your lunch break. A little change of scenery is good for the brain and can help break the monotony of everyday life.
Meditation is another form of putting your brain on stand-by. Set aside at least 10 minutes in your day to focus on your well-being. Not taking proper care of ourselves can lead to a crash in motivation.
Think About the Long-Term Benefits
The things you do today will bring you closer to the end goal, no matter how distant it seems.
If you finish your work as soon as possible, you’ll have plenty of time to do activities you actually enjoy. Do what scares you first and then focus on the work you love.
Motivation will come when you give yourself something to look forward to in the future. See the boring administrative paperwork as something that’ll help your business in the future. Think of useless tasks as one step closer to your next career goal.
On your way to the top, there will be things you won’t like to do, but will have to. This is how motivation finds its way. When you switch your perspective, you’ll only focus on the long-term benefits of the situation.
Get to the Root Cause
Demotivation can often be disguised as laziness, but it can also be a sign of depression. Getting to the root cause of the problem, especially if it’s been dragging on for a while, is crucial for finding the best solution.
Start by observing your thoughts during the day. Notice if they’re on the negative side of the spectrum.
The lack of motivation can be triggered by fear of success or failure, perfectionism or being overwhelmed by tasks and responsibilities.
Don’t forget you’re only human who’s allowed to feel down sometimes. Don’t criticize yourself for not doing enough.
Just try a little better tomorrow and keep going. Motivation takes time and practice, so be patient with yourself.
If you notice negative, harsh and derogatory self-talk, extreme self-criticism and disinterest in activities you once enjoyed, talk to a mental health professional.
Regain Your Motivation and Overcome Procrastination
If you’ve been stuck in a rut feeling unmotivated and helpless, you’re not alone.
These tips will help you snap out of it faster and regain control over your life.
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Frosina A. Ivanovic is a content marketing specialist and writer. She’s passionate about quality coffee, travel, wellness, and digital marketing. You can connect with Frosina on LinkedIn or her website, Zhillmatic.
