Not long ago I wrote about procrastination and how it may be induced by fear. Since then I have discovered another hindrance in the quest to achievements – motivation.
I have a plethora of ideas and dreams but it all seems to stall out in the planning stage. Sometimes the daily juggling of tasks leaves me lacking in the energy needed to commit to even the most mundane chore much less putting together writing that are meant to make sense.
It is easy to get bogged down in the daily demands of life and make excuses for why something hasn’t been done. The end results, however, leave me feeling depressed and sadly a bit envious of those who have managed to achieve good things.
Whether it is a well manicured lawn desired or a healthy body, nothing will get done without motivation. As I am sorely lacking in it lately, I thought I’d do a little research in order to become more disciplined in my writing as well as other factors of my life.
Here is what I found to be a common thread in several sources.
1. Know why you’re doing it.
If you don’t have a clear objective, a clear sense of why you are wanting or needing to do something, than it stands to reason you’re not going to be too motivated to do it.
Example: I want to publish books because I want to allow people to have a place to escape as well as give them something to think about.
2. Break it down into bite size pieces.
Often a goal can be a bit grandiose or even overwhelming. However, if you break it down into smaller chunks, recognizing each segment as its own accomplishment, it will not only make the task more manageable, but it will also create the motivation needed to continue.
Example: Whether writing or editing, it is done one page at a time. Thus by setting a goal of ten pages a day the task can be completed.
3. Be organized.
Have a list, an outline, a clean space, the tools needed – all ready and easily accessible when you are working on this project. This will also eliminate distractions and excuses to wander away from the job.
Example: A clean writing desk equipped with writing tools and research material is essential for entering “the zone.”
4. Enlist a partner.
Achieving goals is a team effort because it makes us accountable, provides a helping hand, and offers a cheerleader when needed.
Example: Telling my family of my desire to write a book bolsters my energy because they encourage my dream and even provide a means to achieve it.
5. Picture the end results.
I found this one to be most intriguing and easily overlooked. To want success you have to visualize how it will feel. Keeping this image in mind will carry you through those darker moments.
Example: I remember how excited and proud I felt when I saw my first novel published. I know that when I finish this book the feeling will be just as rewarding and joyous.
These are just a few steps to get you, and me, going in the right direction. Below, I have included three sources that had some wonderful tips and guidelines to stay motivated that I hope you will find helpful.
Some people seem to have a natural disposition and drive to achieve; others (like myself) struggle with even the simplest of tasks, but no matter what your personality may be, you can meet your goals. Just remember the three P’s – Practice, Perseverance, and Patience.
Coffee Dribble 