Motivation is a funny thing. Some days you feel it, and other days you can’t grab at it no matter how hard you try. You stare at the computer screen, trying to type, create, develop, and instead, you find yourself sitting there, barely caring about the work you’re producing. Your inspiration has gone out the door, and you’re ready to quit.
We’ve all been there. So here are a few tips and tricks that should get you motivated in no time.
1. Don’t think of it as hard work
Think about it, if the project you’re faced with isn’t viewed as hard, but rather as a piece of the puzzle that’s helping you along your career path, then perhaps the energy required to do it will be easier to come by.
2. Read daily
Although it may sound counter-productive to set aside reading time when really what you’re looking for is motivation to work hard, sometimes it’s necessary to do something seemingly unrelated to tackle the task at hand. Developing a daily reading habit is one thing that’s likely to have a long-lasting impact on your thought processes, ultimately inspiring you in all areas of your life.
3. Just do it
Now here’s some worthwhile advice: Instead of waiting around, willing yourself to feel motivated, what if you just went ahead and started doing the work you know you need to do? Dive into the project and trust that the focus will be what you need.
4. Clean your work desk
Nothing will bring you down like returning day after day to a messy, disorganized or dirty workspace. Put some time and effort into cleaning up, organizing and decorating your office space. You will spend the majority of your waking hours there, so make it a pleasant place to be.
5. Take a break
Be kind to yourself and take a break once in a while. Do something completely different than work and rediscover some of the joys life has to offer outside of work. And don’t forget to give your body a break, especially if you hunch over a computer most of the day. Try to stretch at least 10-20 minutes each day.
