Motivation sucks, Build momentum
Feeling motivated is like having your own superpower, right? You know that feeling when you're on top of the world, ready to conquer anything. But then, seemingly out of nowhere, that drive to tackle big goals becomes a distant memory. It's a phenomenon that so many people grapple with, and it can really mess with your head. Ever caught yourself wondering, 'What's wrong with me?' or 'Why can't I just find that motivation?' It's a deflating feeling, and as a therapist, one of my favorite skills to teach is the idea of building momentum.
Now, you might not have control over when motivation hits, but you DO have control over your actions. You get to decide where you put your effort, attention, and time. Yeah, it might feel like pushing a boulder uphill at first, especially when motivation's nowhere to be found. But you know what? Ever had that moment when you accomplished something when you weren't initially jazzed about? It feels amazing.
Now, if you're into straightforward tips (who isn't?), here are three ways you can kickstart that momentum, especially when motivation is no where to be found:
1. Own Your Vision
What's the big picture you're working toward? Time to ID your goals and go all in. Sometimes, you gotta focus your attention on the stuff that truly matters, and ditch the rest. Let's say you're all about leveling up your communication game. Paint a really clear picture of what that would look like. Imagine you wake up tomorrow and your goal is now a reality - how would you know? Would you be straight and to the point, would you feel heard and understood, or would you be dialed in on intentional listening? Once you get crystal clear on this, you've got your game plan for daily wins, accomplishments for the week and milestones for the month.
2. Small Wins, Big Gains
Momentum's all about putting in the work, even if it's just a tiny step. No need to go all superhero and aim for 20 victories a day – that's just not realistic. Let's stick with the communication goal. Commit to practicing once a day. Start small with daily practice, and as you consistently hit these milestones, your big-picture goal starts to materialize. It's about making progress and bringing your ideal future into reality, one step at a time.
3. Track Your Wins
Keep tabs on your victories – it's like a highlight reel of how far you've come. Seriously, this one's gold, especially when you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed or you want to quit. Take a moment to pat yourself on the back for pushing through and getting as far as you’ve come. Progress is not always linear, and we’re not aiming for perfection. By building a highlight reel of your small wins, you not only acknowledge your progress but also fuel your confidence in yourself. Consistency for 2 weeks, or 2 months, you will be shocked at how far you’ve come.