Now that we are heading into 2025, did you set new goals you want to achieve? This is the time when the majority of people feel invigorated to become more of what they are and leave behind old routines and habits. Whether that involves one’s job, health and fitness, relationships, or just to be a better person, this is the time for change.
However, change is not easy and going out of your comfort zone to do something new. It doesn’t matter if the change is beneficial – our bodies and brain don’t like ‘stepping out’ of that zone. It doesn’t feel right; after all, it’s easier to stay where you are as you know how to deal with the emotions that arise. It’s easier to justify why you’re not making a change or to put off the idea of doing so.
But any change involves motivation, or the drive to achieve a goal. Motivation can be driven by internal or external needs: internal needs are those that come from within us, that we are passionate about, or know it’s the ‘right’ thing to do (making more money or staying late to help a coworker out); external needs are desires we have from outside us to gain a reward or prevent a punishment, such as doing extra work to get a bonus or not wanting to get in trouble.
One of the biggest challenges you might face is to find that motivation, as simple as that sounds. Everyday people are finding it difficult to get enough motivation to get through the day. The lack of inner desire to get things done is usually a very daunting experience that can lead to less productivity and people struggling to do even the basic things. Comfort is less scary than doing a new action.
However, motivation is all about how one influences the mind and controls it to achieve the goals. If you also go through a similar phase and want to know how to find real motivation then just keep on reading.
Before I tell you some awesome ways to reel in inspiration, you must know what causes the lack of motivation. When we look for the opposite words of motivation, we get words such as discouragement, depression, dislike and difficulty to name a few. In fact, all of these reasons can be attributed to our lack of doing something. We might be discouraged about that activity if it didn’t work in the past, we may be depressed because of not taking action, we might find that something is too difficult for us to do so it’s easier to not do it, or we may have a general disliking towards something but feel compelled to make the change.
All of these, or even one of these reasons, may be causing you a lack of willpower which is what is needed to overcome and move forward. As mentioned earlier, fear is the main reason for not taking action. In this case, the biggest question is – how to find real motivation. It is all about the mind – the power of the mind – your mind, specifically.
Let’s look at some ways that can help you sort out your mindset and move away from your habit of procrastination, or avoidance, so you can go boldly into any change you truly desire, along with questions to ask yourself:
– What makes you want to not start or to quit?
The first step to get rid of your motivation problem is to find out the reason that makes you think that it’s ok to quit. We all know that the world is a difficult place and not everyone is good. However, what matters is how you take your steps and face your obstacles. If you feel depressed, pump up your mind with better thoughts and hang out with people who make you happy and are happy to be around you; get help if you need to – talking to someone can be a great way to release negative emotions. A new study shows that meditation is one of the best ways to ease depression (go to a class or visit YouTube).
– What is your goal and can you see it?
The second step to find your real motivation is to look up to your final goal. This means being crystal clear about that goal and the benefit you will get from having it. One of the best methods is using Everest Goal Setting; basically, you come from the frame that you already achieved the goal and work backwards to how you achieved it. Our brains have a unique ability to expand our thinking and ideation; it takes the pressure off of starting at the beginning which can lead to brain-freeze (fight-or-flight). Remember, your goal should be completion, not winning. If you take it easy with your goals and resolution, and complete them, you will be a much happier soul, and your motivation will be there both the present and the future.
– Commit to your resolution
When you sort out your initial problem, all you need to do is commit to your goal and your resolution. Sounds easy, right? Staying the course to see the goal realized will have bumps and turns (maybe some bruises, also) and waning in staying motivated. Accountability is needed, or what I call a feedback system. This can include having an accountability partner(s), such as your family, friends or colleagues, so that you have steady support always around you. Having people help you by being encouraging is always a plus-point.
Other suggestions: have a calendar or white board where you can document your daily activities and results; join a meetup group or club where you will find others with similar goals; make a vision board; find a mentor or a coach – all of these will keep you focused on your goals staying the course. We all need help along the way.
Finding your motivation takes time and effort but will be worth it in the long-run. Knowing how you ‘operate,’ so to speak, is the first and best way to make any changes you desire so you are reaching higher and living the life you desire.
“If you can change your mind, you can change your life.” (William James)
