No matter what we’re trying to achieve, there will inevitably be obstacles that hinder our efforts — even with the best thought-out plans. Life happens! A great example has been the effects of the pandemic, which has disrupted almost every aspect of our lives from health and relationship goals to educational and career milestones.
If you’ve recently – or, frequently – become disheartened, you’re not alone. But the good news is there are powerful tools that can REWIRE your mind for greater positivity, motivation, and resilience.
The first step is to understand how motivation works …
Motivation
We’re repeatedly told that in order to be successful we have to be motivated, but what inspires motivation? Motivation is described as an emotion inspired by a goal. And goals are unique and personal to each of us. Some of us are inspired by goals like achieving promotion at work or making more money, while others are motivated by health goals or a desire to play an instrument or learn a new language. Which goal motivates YOU?
Momentum
It’s easy to get discouraged, especially when a goal falls short. And some circumstances may indeed meant that a goal has to be set aside – at least for now. If so, don’t lose hope. Instead, practice acceptance, be patient, and make a plan to start another day when circumstances allow. Better yet, is there a way to revise your plan and ADAPT? Perhaps, for example, your goal can be achieved using online tools or enlisting the support of an online community. If the goal is important to you, you will make it happen.
Attitude Adjustment. (Check Yourself Before You Wreck Yourself).
In need of an attitude adjustment? The truth is, to quote Henry Ford, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right.” But “positive thinking” doesn’t mean denial. Instead, positivity is a conscious choice. When we consciously choose positivity and happiness, we respect both our health and our overall well-being. Today, start making a conscious choice to focus your thoughts and your energy upon what’s going well – as opposed to dwelling on the past perceived “failures.” Check yourself throughout the day, Positivity builds happiness … and happiness has a positive ripple effect upon almost every aspect of daily life from work and health relationships!
Visualize! (If you can see it, you can achieve it).
Picture this. You … winning that race, climbing that hill, banking that check, buying that house, helping that cause … In order to stay motivated, it’s important you VISUALIZE yourself getting there. What will it look, smell, taste and feel like!? Get into the details. Use a vision board. Cut out pictures that reflect your dream. As an example, a friend plastered his office cubicle with beautiful photos of parrots, exotic animals and jungle plants. A few years later he quit his job and left to build a gorgeous resort in Costa Rica! The key is to keep your vision in plain sight. Better yet, feel the “feeling.” Take that dream car for a test drive, or regularly visit the country you aspire to move to. See it, believe it.
Success Quotes
Inspirational quotes are easily accessible tools that can keep us motivated. It’s easy to follow lively Instagam feeds like @GetZENd for daily inspiration. And there are dozens of great motivational speakers – past and present – that may align with your life goals. Find your favorites, follow them … and you may find yourself writing new quotes of your own!
To sum up, make a conscious choice to stay motivated. Be kind to yourself and use tools that set yourself up for success. Tools like quotes, vision boards, inspirational books, or podcasts and within reach of almost all of us … and help make those dreams a reality.
