5 Tricks To Motivate Yourself

Just as our daily energy levels ebb and flow (hello coffee!), so does our weekly, monthly, and even seasonal motivation. Sometimes our focus is laser sharp while other times our goals get pushed to the side leaving room for distraction. Distraction can deplete our motivation tank. Low mental and physical energy happens; don’t be discouraged or careen severely off track. You just need a reset (a.k.a. kick in the pants) that thrusts you into action with vigor and zeal! When we feel good, we also feel motivated in all aspects of life – work, health and family. These simple practices make a huge difference:

Tricks to motivate yourself

Out with the old

A cluttered space and cluttered mind are serious energy depleters. Clean out your closet and get rid of anything you haven’t used in a year or that no longer represents who you are now. Mentally, our “first mind” is trying to focus on the task at hand, while our “second mind” is distracting it. Is there a call you need to make? A project you’ve been avoiding? Thank you cards you need to write? Stop what you are doing right now and do these second mind tasks so you can legitimately be present in this moment with your first mind.

Think about your days

We move so fast through our days that we often forget to slow down and acknowledge what brings us joy, soul replenishment. If we think, really think, about when we are happiest we bring clarity to how we are living. When was the last time you did that thing? Perhaps it’s coffee with a friend, going for a run in nature vs on the treadmill, doing community service, singing, reading, or challenging yourself. Whatever it is, do more of what brings you happiness and then be grateful every time you receive it. Happiness is a huge motivator.

Make a New schedule

We are creatures of habit. This is why routines can be magical transformers. But, they need to be reconfigured. We are ever evolving so it’s important that our routines reflect these changes. You might feel a lack of motivation because your current routine doesn’t inspire you. That doesn’t mean you should ditch your healthy habits and rituals, simply shift them. For example, if you normally workout at night, maybe start working out in the morning to cease the morning light! Or, if you're having trouble finding soul-connecting time, take 10 minutes while the kids are in school to focus on setting your goals.

Check your nutrition

If your meals are lacking color and looking overwhelmingly white, then it’s time to adjust your diet. Bright colored fruits and vegetables have antioxidants and are loaded with vitamins to fuel your body. Give your brain a boost with fresh fish, walnuts, blueberries, coconut oil, and turmeric. Consult with your doctor or nutritionist about adding in B vitamins for increased energy. Nutrition is key to focus and stamina.

Take 10

You already spend an hour every day taking care of body by going to barre class, Pilates, or the gym. So what’s 10 more minutes to enrich your soul? Read, meditate, pray, listen to music, journal, or sit quietly outside observing nature. You will be amazed by what these few minutes each day will do to inspire you deep inside and move you into action.