It is so normal for people to struggle with feeling motivated. Especially since COVID-19, my own motivation has plummeted. At least my motivation for what I thought I wanted plummeted. So, how do I keep myself motivated? Well, let’s start with what we actually want to do with our lives and let our motivation come from that.
I used to be a Type-A personality, but I will admit that it was more or less the result of the conditioning of the American public school system (and the fact that unless you’re a Type-A person, you will probably struggle a little extra). My motivation used to come from the pressure and demand I felt through my education, and my more creative and laid-back true-to-myself Type-B personality didn’t ever get the chance to shine through. I have always been an All-A Honor Roll student- not because I’m magically a genius, but because having anything less than an “A” terrified me. When I started doing online schooling (thanks to the pandemic), I began to understand the importance of getting enough rest and spending time with people who make me feel loved. With all this being said, it is clear that my motivators has changed my motivation.
How to feel motivated (by something other than fear or stress):
- Find passion in what you do. Now, I can practically see you rolling your eyes through the screen, but this is the easiest, most effective way that you can find motivation in what you do. Although cliché, finding passion in what you do will inevitably translate into feeling motivated to do “the thing,” whatever that thing may be.
- Stop doing what you’re not passionate about. This doesn’t mean that if you’re not passionate about laundry and dishes to stop doing them- this means that if you’re not passionate about your job, or you outgrew one of your hobbies, or if you’re generally dissatisfied with where you’re at in life, you have the permission and ability to change it- so don’t limit yourself. I was not passionate about one of the best-paying jobs I’ve worked thus far, and despite the opportunities it provided, I knew I had to move on for myself and find something I enjoyed. My mental and emotional well being is a key component of me feeling motivated, and I’m sure this is true for more people than just myself.
- Have the mindset that the time will pass whether you’re productive or not, and you never get a moment back- so spend your time wisely! This mindset will motivated you to get your stuff done now and have your fun time later.
- Understand the value of getting things done- you feel good about yourself, your to-do list, your space, your workload, your peace of mind- whatever it was that you needed to accomplish will be accomplished sooner if you start NOW! (or, at least when you’re done reading this post)
- Your time is valuable. It is worth more than mindlessly scrolling through social media. Your time is worth your mental health and general wellbeing, so take care of that first and foremost.
- You never get this day back- make the most of it! Not to freak you out and make you feel like you’re missing out on life if you’re not constantly elated- that’s just unrealistic. But keep in mind that you might miss your peaceful morning if you stay in bed. Your motivation doesn’t have to be centered around productivity. Your motivation is allowed to be something beautiful and peaceful, like the way the morning light shines in your home or the way the birds sing in the morning.
I hope these quick tips and changes of perspective as you view your day-to-day life and value of your time help you to feel motivated. Your worth is not measured by your productivity, but being productive can and does improve your life. Take care of yourself, and stay posted for your next quick read!
An Olive Writes 