My top three ways to get motivated
Know you need to do something but can’t seem to stop watching YouTube? Here are my top three ways to get motivated.
1. Make plans
Set aside some time to plans out some goals that you really want to achieve. Make sure that they are SMART and write down all the actions you have to take to achieve them (see my Daily Review Planner post for more tips). Have at least one action that you can take immediately and force yourself to do it. You are really selling yourself short if you aren't setting goals. Having something to aim for makes life more energising and writing them down means you are much more likely to achieve them.
2. Change location
Your home is where you relax – it’s cosy, there’s a TV, your bed, lots of food. But it is also so easy to get distracted and end up doing chores or (worse) lazing around. If you can, get out of the house when you need to get things done. As someone who is self-employed, I literally cannot stay in the house if I need to work. It is just too quiet and boring for me. I need the buzz of other people to keep me focused. I love to go to coffee shops and spend a few hours completely immersed in my work. Loneliness saps motivation so make sure you aren't isolating yourself.
3. Move it
I’m a huge fan of rituals and habits. Start one where you exercise every morning (no matter what) and your motivation levels will soar. Now, anyone that knows me knows that I hate the gym. But I love getting outside and walking - fast! That's my type of exercise. When we exercise the brain releases “feel-good” chemicals called endorphins. It's that glow you feel after getting a good sweat up. Endorphins do many awesome things – reduce stress, relieve pain, fight depression – not to mention the general benefits of exercise for your overall health. Making exercise a part of your morning routine will have you feeling great for the rest of the day. The most important thing is to build the habit, then it will be like clockwork.
Getting motivated is a key ingredient to your future success. What are your favourite ways to kick-start your motivation?