How to get motivated to do work when you’re just not feeling it.
Each day is different from the next.
Some days we’re snowballing through the to-do list and making things happen, and other days…we’re staring at the same list wondering where to even start.
Whether it’s emotions, energy levels, or just one of those days when you don’t feel like doing anything, sooner or later we find ourselves struggling to get motivated for the work that needs to be done.
Here are four ways to beat the directionless void and power yourself back into motivation and forward momentum.
4 Ways to Motivate Yourself
1. Find a ‘Why’
When everything on your list is just another unattractive chore, get perspective.
Look at your tasks as they fit into the bigger picture. What are these tasks contributing to?
Sending out that proposal today might land you the sale you need to make that bonus. Or resetting the guest room today means you can spend the entire weekend relaxing without an interruption from chores.
When you zoom out and refocus on why you’re doing what you’re doing, you might find the motivation you need to power through the mundane tasks and move forward toward your bigger goals.
2. Set Time Blocks
The hardest part of any project is getting started. When you set aside a designated amount of time, you have an end in sight which is motivation in and of itself.
You’re no longer finishing this financial spreadsheet indefinitely, you have 50 minutes to get as much done as you can, then taking a break. You can even add an additional reward like taking a walk or getting a coffee.
The key is to do whatever it takes to get started.
If you reach the end of the designated time block and find yourself on a roll, keep going! Listen to your own motivation and what you find exciting. Your best work is done when it’s aligned with your passion.
3. Break It Down
Sometimes it’s overwhelming to look at all the things on your to-do list.
That’s when it’s time to break it down.
Looking too far ahead draws energy away from what’s right in front of you. Instead, focus on one task at a time. Don’t even think of the next task until you’re ready to tackle it.
Each time you mark something off your to-do list you’re creating your own forward momentum and motivation as you watch those tasks disappear.
4. Design Your Environment for Success
When your environment is designed for focus and comfort, you won’t be distracted by things like the temperature, a messy desk, your hunger, and so on.
Set yourself up for success and motivation by caring for yourself and your workspace so that it’s comfortable to work. Grab a cozy blanket to settle into a task, or have a cup of tea for a little indulgence as you work.
Working on a project that’s not exciting to begin with is even more difficult when you’re in a space that’s not enjoyable either.
Eliminate one of those things, and you can at least complete the project with as much comfort as possible.
Keeping Your Motivation
Some days will just be harder than others. While these four tools can help you motivate yourself, they’re also useful to incorporate into your daily work.
Creating a comfortable space, focusing on one task at a time, and rewarding yourself along the way helps keep your motivation supply full and protected from those motivationless days.
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