Change is one of the scariest realities people do not like to face. You talk a big talk about getting in shape, finding a new job, writing that book, starting that business… but then come the excuses. Now, I’m not saying those excuses aren’t valid. They are. And I have them too, believe me. Let’s just call them out so we all know exactly what we are dealing with here…Because change requires motivation when you have big goals. And motivation can be hard to come by when you are riddled with every excuse for not taking action to reach those goals. Since we are all human, we all share these fears:
- Fear of change, uncertainty, failure or not being good enough
- Not wanting to be uncomfortable
- Being tired or busy
- Not having time
- Perfectionism
- Not knowing how
Your progress becomes paralyzed because you can’t seem to find the motivation to simply start, continue, or finish whatever goal you set.
Most of our goals are (and should be) lofty goals. Daunting as they may seem, it’s important to understand that things hardly ever go as planned or work out perfectly. The sooner you can come to terms with that, the sooner you will find success in achieving your goals.
So how DO you stay motivated?
Here are 5 practices to help you stay motivated, move past your fears, and help you accomplish your goals:
- Be Clear on your goals:
This one is a no brainer. Writing them down allows you to be specific… But you also have to be clear about your WHY behind the goal. “Lose 10 pounds” is very different from “gain confidence.” Set your goal, then ask Why again and again and again.
- Create Momentum:
Once you get the ball rolling, it becomes easier to create habits to help move you towards your goal. Take action! Any type of action will do, especially at the beginning. You are putting your time and energy towards things that matter most to you. Momentum builds energy and progress towards your goal. Action gives you belief that you can achieve your goals.
- Focus on the Process:
If you are only obsessed with the actual end goal, you lose sight of the steps in between to getting there and the transformation that happens when you are in the process. Focusing on the process helps you to break down your daily actions and avoid the “all or nothing” trap when you get off track. The process is full of small habits and actions that lead you to your bigger goal. There is always something to learn in the process, regardless if you achieve your goals or not.
- Understand that Motivation is an emotion:
Let go of trying to stay motivated ALL the time. Sometimes you are gonna crush your workouts, and other times staying in bed will be the best you got. The key is to realize it, accept it, and move on. Don’t linger in the negative (or positive) for too long.
- Create Community:
Surrounding yourself with the right people is critical in achieving any type of goal. It’s amazing what some accountability, good friends, and good coaches can accomplish. A positive community can pull you out of a rut and carry you when you may not be able to do it alone. Create your support team and check in with them throughout your process. You can share your triumphs and your struggles.
Try placing one or all five of these practices into your life and see how your results can change for the better.
Motivation is a mindset skill that when used effectively can shift your life for the better. Positive thoughts lead to positive results.
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