Even the most motivated of individuals can feel unmotivated at times. I admit to sometimes feeling this way; becoming lazy or finding it hard to get back into training when other aspects of life take over. Here are 6 things you can try to start feeling motivated again!
- Focus on One Goal – Whenever I lack motivation, I’ve discovered that it’s often because I am trying to do too much and have a lot going on in my life. A common mistake people make is trying to take on too much, attempting to accomplish more than one goal at once. This is where I like to take a step back, reassess the situation and focus all of my energy on one specific goal until it is complete (Plus I am terrible at multi-tasking!)
2. Set the bar low – When I am feeling unmotivated the thought of a huge goal makes me feel uneasy, overwhelmed and apprehensive about the amount of effort needed to achieve the task. This is due to the fact that when I take on too much I am probably functioning at around 20% rather than the usual 70-90%. Instead I like to set the bar low and achieve small wins such as:
- pack my gym bag the night before
- write the shopping list before going to the supermarket
- plan what I am going to have for lunch
- plan my gym session.
If you can manage more without feeling overwhelmed, feel free to set the bar higher.
- Find Inspiration – Inspiration for me comes from others who have achieved what I am trying to do or who are currently doing it. I read books on self-development and Google motivational quotes and try to
visualise my goal.
- Stick with it – Whatever you do, don’t give up! Once you are on a roll it is easier to keep the momentum going. You don’t have to commit a full day working towards your goals, instead allocate 30-60min work slots at the time of day when you are most energetic and productive.
- Just Start – Having a bad day, feeling tired or still not motivated? Instead of thinking about how hard it is and how long it will take, tell yourself that you just have to start.
- Stay Accountable – I tend to share my goals publicly with friends, family, gym members or on my social media platforms. I commit to sharing my progress with them daily and I find this accountability keeps me motivated. I don’t want to report to them that I have failed! You could consider a drastic measure such as giving someone a sum of money which you can only have back once the goal is achieved.