Why is Motivation So Hard?
““The process of getting things done represents the intersection between motivation and willpower; the place where you not only want to take action, but where you have the ability to execute as well.” ”
Motivation comes from a vision. A goal. It gives us our target and the drive to achieve it. So why does it seem so hard to feel motivated sometimes?
Let’s identify the 3 primary sources of resistance to getting things done.
1. The “I have to”:
Feeling forced to do something is a very effective way to not want to do it at all.
Solution: Change the way you think. Realize that nothing is ever a have to and that you have absolutely 100% choice. Say it with me, “I choose to.”
2. The “I don’t feel comfortable”:
Maybe as a mother you feel selfish or experience mom guilt when taking the time out of your day to care for your physical and emotional health. Whether you let your kids have screen time, hire help, or drop them off at a daycare.
Solution: Realign your tasks. Demonstrate a positive relationship with being active and taking that short and necessary time away from your kids.
3. The “ I can’t do this”:
When you feel inadequate or unequal to a task it can be very difficult to even begin.
Solution: Realize that effort creates excellence. You’ve heard it before. Practice makes perfect. You have to start somewhere. If you need help, ask for it, but don't let your lack of knowledge or experience stop you from taking the first step toward your development.
Look at your environment. Are you kids home from school? Are they staying up later in the evening, so you are too? What about emotions? Are friends or family around you going through a tough time? Are your babies sick? The list can be long, right? Environment & emotions play a huge part in our motivation.
The good news is there are tools to help you stay motivated! Motivation comes from being able to step back, look at your life, and assess why you are NOT feeling motivated - and then doing something about it!!
How to get things done and set yourself up for Success
Develop a solid routine. Decide that certain times and places are dedicated to you.
Address your most important work priorities first. Don’t be a structured procrastinator who tinkers away at the less important and less urgent tasks during the most productive times.
Set a goal! Sometimes we are stagnant because we don’t have specific things we have decided to achieve.
Eliminate clutter and unnecessary commitments. Be willing to say no.
And the one that no-one likes to hear: Willpower, which requires you to “power through” your challenges.
Motivation can look different for everyone. If you are feeling a little less of it these days, it’s okay. But don’t sit in that for too long. Give yourself some compassion and keep working! You’re doing great!