Today I have two tasks that I absolutely need to get done before the end of the day. They are both important. One of these is quite a mundane task; the other is something I will quite enjoy. Now if I think about it, the motivation to do the pleasant task is already there.

However, I don’t feel at all motivated to take on the unpleasant work. That, I believe, is basic human nature. So it got me thinking about exactly how we can get motivated to do those less glamorous jobs like filling out your tax return or mowing the lawn or whatever it is that you know you must do, but always have difficulty starting.

Here are my 5 Top Tips for Staying Motivated …

Get fit & stay fit. You need plenty of energy if you are to stay motivated. So try to find some time each day to fit in some aerobic exercise. This will raise your overall energy levels.

Eat properly. Make sure you take time for proper meals – especially at work. Get away from your desk at lunch time – even if it’s only for half an hour. You will be more productive when you are there.

Keep your eyes on the prize. Every day, review your most important goals. See yourself as having accomplished them. See yourself receiving the prize, the award or the reward. You will gain a proper perspective on the events of the day by doing this regularly.

Get organized. Make a list of everything you need to do ahead of time. Then decide upon those top two or three priorities you need to accomplish the following day.

Now here’s the kicker – do the unpleasant task on your list first! You will feel so much more motivated when you have it out of the way. Not only that, but if you keep doing this, you will wonder why those tasks gave you any kind of mental difficulty in the first place.

Right then: I’ve been for my run, I’ve had a light and healthy breakfast, I have reviewed my goals for the day and I have my list. Now where did I put that tax form?

Will Edwards
http://www.whitedovebooks.co.uk