7 Tips On Staying Motivated

We’ve all been there. You have something that needs to get done and you just don’t feel motivated. You think to yourself, “It’ll come to me, right?” And then it doesn’t. Recently, I have become self-employed, and to be honest, it’s harder than I ever expected it would be. As I’ve discovered ways to daily pursue my goals and overcome the challenges of working for myself, I have had to quickly learn how to tackle that feeling of not feeling motivated. Trust me, it happens more often than I’d like to admit. With the creative business that I am in of fashion blogging, creativity does not simply “come to me,” especially when I’m not feeling in the mood to write or create. However, I can’t let that hold me back. As I have learned to navigate the paths within this new business venture, I find more ways every day to stay motivated. Today, I share these tips with you. After all, we all need a little extra motivation sometimes! 

1. Keep in mind that motivation does not come first.

This is key to staying motivated because you can’t sit around and wait for motivation to come to you. If you do, you will likely end up procrastinating and being further behind, which if you’re anything like me, this will stress you out more. Often it merely takes the challenge of breaking through that barrier holding you back and pushing through anyway– whether you feel like it or not. As you push through, regardless of how you feel, you will soon discover it wasn’t so bad as your mind made it out to be. In the end, you will be glad you stuck it out.

2. Remember your why.

We all have a why — why we do things the way we do and why we want to (or need to) get things done. Taking a moment to answer this question and focus in on the reason will help you to stay motivated and finish the task at hand.

3. Commit to yourself.

Making a commitment to yourself is an excellent way to holding yourself accountable and staying motivated. Personally, I have committed myself to always do my best. I have committed to do my work with excellence in mind, as well as speed and efficiency so that I can effectively move on to the things I most enjoy. *Pro tip: If committing to yourself seems too much of a challenge, ask a friend to help hold you accountable!

4. Keep your eye focused on your goals.

I am all about GOALS. Goals, goals, and more goals! Without them, I would be lost and wouldn’t even get half as much done as I need to in a day. Not only do I find it important to set long-term goals so that I have a clear vision of what the finished results will look, but I also set short-term goals. With smaller goals that you can check off as you go, you will stay motivated and on task as you work through your project.

5. Give yourself breaks.

I am much more apt to stay motivated when I give myself breaks. I use the method called The Pomodoro Technique and it is a life saver in staying on task, especially for someone who is easily distracted like me. The process involves setting a timer (typically 25 minutes) and working non-stop. After that time is up take a short break. After several “Pomodoros” a longer break is given. Not only does this process help in staying motivated, but it also improves mental agility, which is a huge bonus!

6. Give yourself a pep talk.

I’m one of those people who thrives off of words of affirmation. This may not be a surprise to you (coming from someone who loves to write), but I have found that words really have the power to motivate me. I’ve learned to empower myself with daily affirmations, especially during the days I need a pep talk the most.

• There is no obstacle you can’t overcome!
• You were made to tackle the world with confidence!
• You can do anything you set your mind to!
• You are smart, unique, creative, and capable of accomplishing anything!
• You were made to create your own life and challenge yourself daily!
• You do your best work when you don’t let anything or anyone get in your way!
• You are unstoppable!
  
  

6. Celebrate your accomplishments.

My friend, it is OK to be proud of yourself and all that you have achieved. When you are finished with that task you were having trouble to stay motivated with — CELEBRATE. Reward yourself with one of your favorite activities or treat you’ve been eyeing. I am all about staying motivated by intrinsic desires, but a little external motivation never hurt anyone either. 😉

I’d love to hear from you — how do you stay motivated?

Keep smiling!

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Dress: Closet London  // Purse: Similar // Caged Sandal Heels: Steve Madden

“Smile Often” cuff: Samantha Faye // Hammered Disc Necklace: Samantha Faye

Photo Credit //Jenna Lynn Photography