The Power of Self-Motivation: Just Begin
As I reflect on the year ahead and plan what I’d like to achieve in the coming months, I know that motivation can sometimes feel elusive. Maybe you’ve found yourself struggling with self-motivation in the past, feeling like you weren’t as productive as you wanted to be.
But here’s something interesting to consider: You are motivated — just perhaps not always in the way you’d like. Think about it. You’re motivated to watch TV, listen to music, read a book, or scroll through your phone. You remember to eat and drink throughout the day. Whenever you’re engrossed in a film, lost in a great conversation, or fully engaged in a hobby, you are experiencing motivation in its purest form — being completely absorbed in what you’re doing.
This means motivation isn’t something you lack — it’s something you already have. The key is redirecting it toward the things that truly matter to you.
How to Tap into Self-Motivation
The simplest way to get motivated? Just begin.
We often wait for motivation to strike before we start something, but in reality, action fuels motivation. The first step — even the tiniest one — creates momentum. Think of it like pushing a car. The hardest part is getting it to move from a standstill, but once it starts rolling, it becomes easier to keep going.
Here are a few ways to help redirect your motivation:
- Make It Easy to Start – If a task feels overwhelming, break it down into small, manageable steps. Want to exercise? Start with a five-minute walk. Need to write a report? Begin with one sentence. Small actions lead to bigger results.
- Use the ‘Five-Minute Rule’ – Commit to doing something for just five minutes. If you want to continue, great! If not, you’ve still made progress. Often, the hardest part is simply getting started.
- Visualise the End Result – Picture how you’ll feel once you’ve accomplished your goal. Will you feel proud? Relieved? Excited? Connecting with that feeling can push you forward.
- Change Your Perspective – Instead of saying, “I have to do this,” try saying, “I get to do this.” A simple shift in wording can turn an obligation into an opportunity.
- Remind Yourself That You Can Feel Motivated – You already know what motivation feels like. You just need to tap into it for the right things. Motivation is a habit, and like any habit, it gets stronger the more you practice it.
Just Begin
Whatever it is that you want to achieve — whether it’s getting fitter, learning a new skill, or making progress in your career — the key is to stop overthinking and start doing. Take that first step, however small, and let momentum build.
You already have the ability to be motivated. Now, it’s just about channeling it in the right direction.
What’s one small step you can take today?
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Would you like help staying motivated and overcoming mental barriers? Get in touch, and let’s work together to move you forward.
Read more about steps you can take to achieve success here.