I’m often asked how I stay motivated. I never really stopped
to think about it, but after receiving a few emails, I finally gave it some
thought. Motivation is something that gives us the reason to move forward. So I
think there’s two questions that need to be addressed. The first being: what is
your goal? And the second being: why do you want to accomplish that goal? The
why is our motivation.
My goal is to leave this world a better place. I understand
that is a little general, but it’s the best way to describe all my endeavors. I
do all these things to pass on the inspiration that burns inside me, hoping
that another person is in inspired by me and will eventually use that
inspiration to do good in the world. It’s a beautiful domino effect. And why do
I want to leave the world a better place? Because I believe it’s my life’s
purpose. I also believe that following ones life’s purpose is how you become
happy. And I chose to live a happy life a long time ago.
I understand that when we are overwhelmed and pulled in so
many directions, it’s not always easy to feel motivated. I also know that we
sometimes feel like giving up when we’re trying so hard, yet nothing goes our
way. Sometimes we need motivation to keep motivated! So here are a few tips
that I think will help you develop that burning sensation in your belly that
makes you want to accomplish the world. We all have it. We just misplace it
sometimes.
1.
What is the alternative?
I usually chose to be motivated
because the alternative is being lazy. And why would I want to waste my life
living that way? We are all here to do great things in this world. Chose to be
motivated because the alternative is a very dark, unhappy place—and who wants
that?
2.
What is your goal?
This can change from time to time.
Maybe your goal right now is to go to college, or maybe it’s to build your
business. Just make sure to make a goal and be clear on it.
3.
What things aren’t inline with your goal?
Sometimes we have a goal, yet our
daily tasks or the people we hang around with will never help us achieve that
goal. These things stress us out and will ultimately make us discouraged
(unmotivated).You must go through
your daily tasks and regular relationships and be honest about which are no
longer serving you. It’s ok to distant your self from friends who are
toxic—they are not looking out for your best interests. And it’s ok to step
away from projects that suck up your time leaving you tired and give you no
real satisfaction. Remember, you’ll only feel motivated when you’re focusing on
your goal.
4.
Get inspired!
This is the opposite of #3.
Surround yourself with people who are motivated—people who are involved and
being proactive. Inspiration is contagious. Participate in tasks that make you
feel satisfied. Maybe that means joining Saturday morning bike group that
cycles through the beautiful city. It could be anything, but just let your
feelings guide you.
5.
Commit to your goal everyday
Everyday when you wake up repeat
your goal and why you want to achieve it. You can even post it in an area that
is visible. Continue to remind yourself of your goal.
6.
Think about the good and not the bad
I know this is easier said than
done. But every time a negative thought about your goal comes into your mind, fire
back with why your goal is worth it. For example, “going for a run this morning
is going to take so much effort.” Instead, remind yourself “I’m going to feel
energized, healthier, and good about myself after this run.”
7.
Have a motivator on speed dial
We can’t always do it alone, so
make sure you assign someone as your resident motivator. When you need a little
pep talk give this person a call. It could even be a book, a movie, a song,
etc. Just make sure to have something that works!
Send me a tweet @LorenRidinger and let me know what
motivates you.
