Ask this question of any of your friends or colleagues and you'll likely get a different answer from each one. That's because, for each of us, motivation can mean different things. For some its escape - such as wanting a vacation; for others its the drive to succeed or compete. And what motivates you now may not be the case in a year, a month, or even a day.
Life changes and so must we!
Lack of Motivation
It can result from many things such as illness or trauma, a stressful situation, feeling overwhelmed from too many things to do or think about; chronic people-pleasing, not sleeping well, and even contentment.
Benefits of Motivation
Lessens constant worry
Builds trust
Lowers stress
Builds confidence
Improves quality of life
Steps to Overcoming a Lack of Motivation
Self-motivation is the opposite of helplessness. Those who are used to feeling helpless must train themselves to accept and use their personal power.
Be nice to yourself! We often talk to ourselves like a drill sergeant - negatively and harshly. Speak to yourself as you would a good friend.
Start small. Rome wasn't built in a day. Simply putting away the dishes or taking the garbage out can mean you did one task today - its a start.
Get moving. I don't mean run a marathon (unless of course, that's your thing). I mean physically move your body - exercise or go for a walk. Getting out in nature if you can has so many benefits and can often calm that inner voice we're trying to silent.
Re-examine your goals or set new ones. Keep your eye on the prize and focus! Outline the small steps you need to achieve that goal.
Some people perform better under pressure. Procrastinators are a prime example. They may hit the snooze button several times until they can't wait any longer to get up or they'll be late for work. This inner passivity motivation takes a toll on your mind and body. You can change this simply by respecting yourself (and others) enough to act when you need to act, so the world is no longer controlling you.
Develop a resilient, optimistic attitude - look on the bright side. There truly is a silver lining in every cloud - sometimes we just can't see it for the fog in our minds.
Trish Kimble
Founder & CEO of Blank Slate Enterprises
Virtual Assistant Coach & Mentor