Staying motivated can be difficult, no matter the circumstances. Routines can become tiresome, and life can come to a standstill of repetitive behaviors that become mundane. It is important to recognize that the only way to stay motivated is to mix things up and find what works for you.
I’ve complied a list of 10 ways to stay the course when you feel your are steering off the road.
- Plan your week ahead of time – write down your tasks for the week, along with a timeframe for completion. You will be better equipped to tackle your responsibilities if you see it written down, and this helps you remember the tasks at hand.
- Get off your phone – I don’t know about you, but sometimes, I spend hours on end with my phone. A great way to monitor the time you spend glued to your phone is by downloading apps that track usage. Android users: YourHour – tracks how often you unlock your phone and the time spent on apps. iPhone users: Toggl.
- Change your location – by picking up and going somewhere that is conducive to your workflow, you might find yourself in a situation that is often less distracting. Sometimes a fresh start somewhere else is what you need to get your brain juices flowing.
- Set a daily morning routine – my routine typically consists of waking up, stretching, meditating, journaling, and reading. I don’t always do all of these things, but I try to keep a consistent routine for the most part. Don’t be afraid to mix up your routine to find what works for you.
- Exercise – get that blood flowing and boost your endorphin levels, which will improve your mood. I am not saying join a HITT program or run a marathon – I am saying stretch – go for a brisk walk. Move your body!
- Journal – this is a big one for me. If you are stuck on what to write, start with five things, you are grateful for every day. Practicing gratitude does wonders with the way you perceive life (speaking from personal experience).
- Practise self-care – there are many ways to do this. It is not a one size fits all approach. Taking a break to indulge yourself in something that brings you joy and puts work on the back burner is a great way to stay motivated. Read more about the importance of taking self-care days, on my post about Why Being Lazy is Okay (sounds hypocritical, but it’s naaah).
- Accountability partner – they are great tools! If you have a friend, coach, or family member that helps you stay accountable – then you’re more likely to stay the course. I have a few people in my life that encourage and me to get back on track when I am feeling defeated.
- Listen to motivational podcasts – I practice this daily, except on weekends, but keep in mind, not all podcasts are motivating. Find ones that fit for you. I go between On Purpose with Jay Shetty and The School of Greatness with Lewis Howes.
- Schedule free time – if you know you have a bunch of tasks to complete and deadlines to meet, then you have to schedule the time you spend perusing social media, connecting with loved ones, etc. This way, you meet your deadlines and set boundaries that work for you, and in turn, you avoid burn out.
I hope at least one of these points speak to you and you find yourself doing more of it. Much like life, it is not a one size fits all approach. It’s essential to try different things and hold onto what works for you.
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I would love to hear from you – leave us a comment below on how you stay motivated.
