The only limitations we have in life are those we put on ourselves. Motivation is an important tool that helps us surpass our limits and be successful. It pushes us through moments where we want to give up. It fuels us even when external factors make the task at hand seem impossible.
How do you build motivation? And once you’re motivated, how can you keep it going?
Positive Self-talk
Turn negative thoughts about yourself into positives. By increasing your confidence through self-talk, you’ll increase the likelihood of accomplishing your goals. For example, instead of saying “I failed, I always fail, and I can never accomplish anything,” say “I’m proud of having the courage to try, and I will keep trying until I accomplish my goal!”
Work Toward Small Victories That Lead to Big Successes
If you constantly make promises to yourself that you do not keep, you will form a habit of not accomplishing your goals. Create a habit of success by setting small, attainable goals. When you achieve a goal, set a new one that builds on it. As you continue to build on each small goal, you’ll learn how to make a commitment to yourself — and actually follow through. As your goals increase in difficulty, you’ll find a way through obstacles in front of you, instead of throwing in the towel.
Keep Your Goal Where You Can See It
When you set a goal, write it down and put it somewhere you’ll see it every day. It will serve as a reminder of what you’re working to achieve. As time progresses, remember the motivation and desire you had when you wrote it down. Envision how you will feel when you accomplish the goal. Use that motivation to keep going.
Use the Five-second Rule
When your motivation is low, take five seconds of conscious effort to change your thoughts. Count down from five, and take action when you get to one. When your alarm clock sounds and you don’t have the motivation to get out of bed, start your countdown. When you hit one, launch out of bed to get yourself to the gym. Why does this work? Because the countdown awakens your prefrontal cortex — the center for cognitive behavior, personality and decision-making.
Surround Yourself With Positive People
The people you surround yourself with can have a big impact on your mindset. Surround yourself with those who are uplifting and encouraging and have positive habits. You’ll notice these traits rubbing off on you.
Always Move Forward
In the moments that are the hardest, keep these words echoing in your mind: non semper ad medium, Latin for “always forward, never back.”
There isn’t one solution for a lack of motivation; each of us is motivated differently. Figure out what works for you, and live a life in which you can accomplish all your goals!
By: Lauren Scotti