Motivation

Some days the motivation flows through you like rain from a cloud. Then there are other days when you search and search and there just doesn't seem to be much motivation there. What do you do when the energy and enthusiasm just aren’t there? You could sit on the couch and eat potato chips. Taking a nap is always nice. Unfortunately these ideas won’t help you achieve your goals.

Once the work is done or even for a short break, getting away from work is important. We need to have variety in our day or the enjoyment of what we do will just vanish. On those days where you are trying to kick your own ass into gear, what is the best way to get going? Here are some quick tips to start your engine.

• Get up! Start by simply moving around. Swing your arms, do jumping jacks, and stretch. This movement will give you a bust of energy and start the momentum that you are looking for.
  
• Encourage yourself out loud. Yes, I am telling you to talk to yourself out loud. Go into the bathroom or call yourself on the phone. Be firm and remind yourself why you need to get the tasks on your to-do list accomplished.
  
• Set a time frame and stick too it. Start working in exactly fifteen minutes. Now for exactly one hour. Take another fifteen minute break. When you look at time in these small increments, time will go faster. In the end you will get work finished and then you can relax for the rest of the day, just be sure to stick to your schedule and do not deviate.
  
• Find your spouse, friend, or dog and talk to them about encouraging you. The other person (or pet) might have enough enthusiasm for both of you that day. Now you can both get back to work.
  

What are some ways that work for you when the motivation is lacking? When you leave too much work undone, it just piles up. With these unfinished chores comes more stress. Find ways to give yourself that kick in the ass that you need and you will be glad that you go everything done.