How to Find Motivation in the Small Things
Motivation is something we all truly desire, though surprisingly, few of us can actually get motivated and stay motivated for the long haul, especially when life tosses us some unexpected setbacks and challenges. Many people often have a difficult time discovering that all-important motivation to get things done effectively. The biggest misconception is that motivation will simply rain down from the sky, and then everything will magically be swell. Unfortunately, that's not how the world operates, and we know it! You really need to be proactive and take the initiative to create the drive you wish to see in your life.
Others often find themselves waiting for something "big" to happen, believing that this significant event will suddenly provide them with the motivation they need to complete a task or push through a particularly tough time. When this much-anticipated moment doesn’t materialize, they quickly lose their focus and fall off the task at hand, drifting away from their goals. Instead of simply waiting for something to come to you, why not take charge and create your own motivation? You absolutely can… and it's much easier than you might think.
How Can You Find the Small Things to Motivate You?
Recall the initial thoughts that sparked your creativity and the deeper purpose behind what you are trying to achieve. Create a detailed plan that carefully outlines the steps that will help you get to where you want to go. The more passionately interested you are in your purpose, the more likely you will succeed in turning your dreams into reality. The very first thing you need is an environment that is not only conducive to healthy motivation but also inspires and nurtures your growth.
Ask yourself honestly, with a moment of deep reflection: "How much would my overall attitude genuinely change if I spent my time doing the things I truly liked to spend time doing?" The very moment you find yourself immersed in an environment that is harmoniously congruent with your personal needs and desires, you will nearly instantly discover a newfound sense of motivation that compels you to get started on tasks and diligently follow through until completion.
Uncover and Learn Your Personal Motivation Factors
Everyone has different motivational factors, so what works wonderfully for your colleagues may not necessarily work for you. Instead, take the time to determine the unique things that truly excite and motivate you personally. Perhaps you can reward yourself with that delicious favorite snack after completing an important task, or maybe you can even invite some friendly competition with your colleagues to spice things up. Whatever it is, make sure to give yourself something meaningful to work towards and look forward to!
Keep a physical reminder of your ultimate goal nearby, wherever you spend your time. Whether in your workspace, on your desk, or at home, make sure you have a constant, uplifting visual reminder of the profound happiness and joy you will attain. This small gesture can trigger motivation and positivity throughout your day.
You'll discover even more motivation by sprinkling delightful mini-rewards throughout your day for each little task you successfully check off your to-do list. When you keep your motivational factors fun and simple, you'll effectively reduce any feelings of pressure and consequently get much more accomplished in a shorter amount of time.
Keeping Your Motivation Once You've Found Your Flow
Do you ever take a moment to glance at your ever-growing "to-do" list and wonder how in the world you are going to get it all done? Are you finding that more and more of your workdays are slipping away, wasted, simply because you lack the motivation and energy to tackle anything on that list?
Many people often find themselves struggling to find motivation, especially when it comes to tackling tasks that they don’t particularly enjoy or that seem tedious. However, the good news is that you can stockpile your motivation like a treasure chest to keep you going strong. By harnessing this energy, you can blast through your to-do list faster than ever before, transforming even the dullest chores into manageable and achievable feats!
The problem with motivation is that you are either feeling highly motivated or simply not motivated at all; there really isn't much of a middle ground to be found in this ever-changing landscape. However, all hope is certainly not lost, even if you feel like motivation is something that has long since been absent from your life. Instead, try to focus on the wonderful loved ones surrounding you. The ultimate purpose of becoming more productive is to provide for your family and to create and enjoy more quality time together with them. Let this heartfelt reminder guide you as you navigate through your tasks and challenges at work.
Find someone who possesses the motivational qualities you deeply desire to cultivate within yourself.
This person could be a family member, a friend, a colleague, or perhaps someone truly special in your life. Take the time to model yourself after this wonderful individual and consider initiating a heartfelt chat with them about their passion and the motivation that drives them forward. When you engage in this enlightening conversation, don't hesitate to express to them just how eager you are to learn their valuable motivation secrets.
You might discover that having this uplifting discussion with your role model will spark a fire within you, inspiring you to take meaningful action. And as you embark on this journey, remember to frequently remind yourself of that incredible feeling you experience after successfully completing a task. It feels good, doesn't it? So, hold tightly onto that positive feeling and let it fuel your motivation!
Some Thoughts on Motivating Others
How do you inspire and motivate others to achieve even greater goals and aspirations? There are a few simple yet effective techniques that successful team leaders and managers can implement, which just as easily apply to your close friends and cherished family members.
Give positive reinforcement to those around you and watch their spirits soar! It's so important to encourage others by pointing out the wonderful positives in their lives. For example, take a moment to comment on a past success they achieved or appreciate the outstanding work they've been able to accomplish so far. It can make a huge difference! Additionally, don't hesitate to ask how you can help them even more. Whether you find yourself in the role of a boss or a supportive friend, you have the power to significantly boost the motivation of others by genuinely taking an interest in their needs and generously offering your unwavering help. Your encouragement can be the spark that lights up their journey!
Be constructive, not overly critical. Even if you believe that others are struggling to cope with their challenges, instead of chastising or scolding them for their difficulties, take a more supportive approach. Show them what they can do differently next time and provide them with practical strategies on how they can improve their situation. This way, you foster a more positive atmosphere that encourages growth and understanding.
Know When You Need a Break To Refresh
Relaxation can also help you get moving and grooving, as strange as it may seem! Many people find that creativity and inspiration tend to fly right out the window when they are stressed out or feeling the weight of immense pressure bearing down on them. This is also true if you happen to be lacking sleep or are working long hours without a much-needed break. Taking some time to unwind can actually rejuvenate your mind and body, sparking new ideas and reinvigorating your spirit!
Take a mental vacation if you find that high amounts of stress are zapping you of your motivation. Go shopping for a couple of hours, read a book, go for a nature walk, or call a friend. Taking a break may seem like the wrong thing to do, but your motivation will likely come back when the pressure is gone. De-stress with your favorite activity or hobby when you find yourself overcome with worry. It may be reading a good book, playing some music (I love guided meditations, and Hemi-Sync offers some incredible journeys), or going out for a night with friends. Make sure to get enough sleep per night.
Something else to consider - you may discover that all you truly need is to clean house, both physically and mentally. This may involve tidying up your desk or completely clearing your mind of those pesky negative thoughts that keep occupying valuable brain space. While some people seem to thrive in chaos and disorder, most of us tend to work more efficiently and creatively when our minds and our spaces are free from clutter and distractions. So take some time to relax for a few hours, clean off your desk, and create a refreshing environment. Once you return to the task at hand, you just might find your motivation waiting patiently for you, ready and eager to help you get things done!
Use the Power of Affirmation
Motivational affirmations are another wonderfully uplifting way to ignite your motivation when you need it the most. A positive statement such as, "I am my own intrinsic motivator," or perhaps, "I use my energy to live my life to the very fullest," just might be the spark that you need to uncover deep reservoirs of inspiration and enthusiasm within yourself. Embracing these empowering phrases can really help shift your mindset and propel you toward your goals!
There are times when it can be difficult to know what affirmations are best to use in any given moment. Drumming helps me do this. It brings me calm, and helps me to entrain my thoughts to higher consciousness. Drumming can decrease stress, induce deep relaxation, help control chronic pain, help you release negative feelings, ground you in the moment, and boost your immunity. I took an online course with Christine Stevens (called Awaken Your Rhythm) and loved it!
The positive affirmations you choose to use will significantly reprogram your mind in a genuinely positive way. By consistently practicing this positive self-talk, you will find that it helps you uncover and ignite motivation during those times of lingering self-doubt or frustrating procrastination. Always remember that everything you do holds meaning and contributes to your journey. It may occasionally seem challenging to see the big picture in the chaos of daily life, but know that every experience and every small task is an essential piece of your unique puzzle. So, give it a good old-fashioned try; you just might be pleasantly surprised by the fantastic results that come your way!