15 Ways to Motivate Yourself
By
Roy J Derrick
1. Make lists. Unless your desired achievements are clear, it'll be impossible to motivate yourself. In order to get things done, make lists and check things off as you go. There are few better feelings in the world than looking at a list of tasks which you've already done!
2. Be optimistic. If you believe you can do something you're more likely to be able to do it. If you live your life optimistically, with a "can do" attitude, you're much more likely to achieve your goals.
3. Pretend. On days when you don't feel so optimistic, pretend you do. Smile at yourself in the mirror, smile at other people, watch something on YouTube that makes you laugh out loud. You'll be amazed at how you can trick yourself into feeling optimistic and motivated.
4. Take things one step at a time. If you have a complex task to achieve, break it down into simple steps which you can check off when they're complete. Tackling big jobs in this way will motivate you because you're getting regular achievements along the way.
5. Do the things you like least first. Often, motivation is crushed because there are dreaded tasks on your list. If you get the things you don't like doing out of the way, you'll find that the road is clear for you to make great progress with the things you enjoy.
6. Take your time. There's no point going at tasks like a bull in a china shop unless you're feeling motivated and up for the job. Plan how long a task should take and don't drag it out, but at the same time, don't be over ambitious about getting it finished either!
7. Take breaks. If you're facing a long task, plan breaks and what you'll do in these breaks. You might decide that if you reach a certain point in your list you'll be able to go into the garden and enjoy the sun or tend your plants or it may simply be, I'll treat myself to a nice coffee once this is done...it's amazing how the thought of a break will keep you working productively for just a few minutes more.
8. Celebrate your achievements. When you've achieved what you set out to achieve, make sure you reward yourself. It needn't be a major celebration, but some acknowledgement of what you've done will pay dividends eg. a lunch with friends, or a walk in the park.
9. Get a leader. Following someone whose achievements you admire will help you motivate yourself when times are tough. By getting to know how other people deal with their challenges, you can adopt their mindset when you feel like you're running on empty.
10. Face the fear and do it anyway. Fear is only too often the ugly monster which holds us back from achieving what we hope to. Facing fear head on is not always something we're able to achieve alone, so if necessary, get help to learn the techniques to face your fears and you'll be amazed at how your motivation will rise.
11. Get moving. If you're feeling heavy and sleepy, your tasks will feel overwhelming. A great way to get your energy back is by getting out in the fresh air and taking a brisk walk. Even 15 minutes of fast walking and fresh air will help get you back on track.
12. Sleep well, eat well and breathe. It sounds really obvious, but if your "engine" isn't properly fed with quality sleep, good food and oxygen, motivating yourself will feel impossible.
13. Be kind to yourself. We've already spoken about celebrating your successes, but it's equally important not to dwell on weaknesses. No one can do everything, so be kind to yourself. If at first you fail, try and try again.
Get support, get training, get help to turn yourself into a "can do" person.
14. Remember to thank your lucky stars. Most people have a million reasons to be happy, but often choose to focus on the one thing which is making them unhappy. Take a bit of time out each day to be thankful and grateful for what you've got and what you have achieved. You'll be amazed at how much better it makes you feel.
15. Look for the good. Often, people who lack motivation have a negative attitude towards everything. They look for the bad, not the good. By turning this around and seeing and seeking the good around them, they change their mindset, opening them up to achievement.
My name is Roy Derrick and I live in South Wales with my wife and four children. I began my working career as a gas engineer but soon realised that I wanted to start my own business and reap any rewards for myself. I opened three retail shops and a food manufacturing company and won several national awards for best retailer including an all expenses trip to New York paid for by Richard Branson. This whet my appetite to want to become an entrepreneur.
I sold my retail outlets in 2002 and started up my own construction and development company which has established itself into a successful business. As well as running the construction business I also run a successful internet marketing company and also coach others on how to succeed in business.
When I'm not working I enjoy socialising with friends and family and adrenaline filled activities like paintballing and racing fast cars.
Find out more on
http://www.perfectprosperity.com
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