Tips for Staying Motivated During Challenging Times
During unpredictable times, motivation may seem to be at a low. When things get tough, it takes motivation to push through. Here are some tips to stay motivated during challenging times:
Keep your goals visible— Try putting up a picture or write down the dream goals you would like to accomplish, no matter how far reaching they might seem right now. By seeing your goals each day within your workspace, you will have a constant reminder to push through, even when morale might be low.
Write down your priorities— At the beginning of each day, make a To-Do list of the tasks you need to accomplish. By aiming to complete the most important task first, you will have a sense of relief and a more positive outlook on the rest of the day. You might even feel a strong sense of motivation to complete the rest of your priorities in a timely manner.
Listen to inspiring media— Change up what you usually listen to by trying out a new audio book or listen to an inspirational podcast. Checking out something different may help prompt a new perspective or idea that you might have not known about before.
Read before going to sleep— As we are consumed with an abundance of screen time throughout the day, try taking a much-needed break at night and spend time reading a thoughtful book or article. Reading something inspirational or educational will help you unwind and get in a positive mindset for the following day.
Try not to complain— When you catch yourself thinking negatively or complaining about something, try thinking about something you are happy about or grateful for instead. Stopping yourself from complaining will help get rid of any negative attitudes you had previously.
Get an accountability partner— Setting a time to regularly check in with a family member, friend or co-worker will help you stay on task throughout the week. You will not only feel more motivated to accomplish your weekly tasks but having a weekly check-in time will also add some “normalcy” to your routine.
Don’t worry about the minor things— Everyone has off days. If you feel like you’ve fallen behind on a project, or misjudge the amount of time something takes, it will be okay. Come up with a plan to get back on track, whether it’s adding a few more tasks each day to your list or spending more time on a project to get it complete. Don’t sweat the small stuff!
Surround yourself with positive people— Communicating and surrounding yourself amongst positive people will help naturally boost your morale. With a positive mindset, you will have a stronger mentality to push through any obstacles.
Recite positive affirmations— Even though it might seem cliché, speaking positive words of affirmation will help provide mindfulness when times seem tough.
Celebrate small victories— Reward yourself by celebrating your success, no matter how small. By acknowledging each milestone, you will feel more motivation to continue what you have been working towards.
Find the positives in every negative— During tough times it might be hard to stay positive. While people are focusing on the negatives of a situation, try coming up with a solution or look at the opportunity in the problem.
Remember what you are working towards— When in doubt during trying times, never forget what you are fighting for. Although sometimes difficult, thinking positively about what you are working towards, even when you are down will help your mind stay calm and focused in order to ensure you cross the finish line.
