Motivation Tips
Being in the counseling field, I often get asked, “How can I motivate myself?” Getting ourselves motivated is a lot like exercising. You have to work out on a regular basis in order to keep from getting flabby. Your attitude is the same way; you have to work on it routinely.
Here are some suggestions to build motivation and a positive mental attitude:
Read positive material and/or listen to motivational tapes on a daily basis. Spend at least 15 minutes a day either reading or listening to something that is going to help you be your best self. Use the drive to work to listen to self improvement programs. You can turn your car into a sort of University on Wheels. I tell people that unless they have an eating disorder, they can miss a meal but not these 15 minutes for their mind. If you can devote more time to your self improvement then do so.
Visit the library and check out books dealing with “Success.” These can be self improvement or the biographies of people you’ve admired throughout history.
Become more physically active. This can include exercises such as walking and running. It can also include simpler methods such as walking at a slightly more rapid pace, sitting up in a confident fashion, smiling, breathing deeply and fully and holding your head erect.
Write your goals on paper or note cards and place them where you will see them daily. You need to remind yourself often of the dreams you have for yourself. Remember, You Become What You Think About! Keep your mind on the things you want and off the things you don’t.
Write your goals in specific terms and put a deadline on them. Think about your goals before you say your prayers at bedtime.
Use positive self-talk. Most people are their own worst enemy in terms of how they talk to themselves. Give yourself encouragement and be optimistic in the words you use. Avoid saying “I can’t” and stop placing negative labels on yourself.
Look at problems as opportunities. All problems have a gift or an opportunity to learn, grow or better ourselves. If we look for the opportunity, we will find the solution to keep us on track with our life versus getting stuck within the hopelessness of our problems.
Developing a positive motivation for life is essential to accomplish your dreams in life. Practice these skills and develop a mindset that will make these skills a way of life. You were born to succeed!
