I Just Don’t Feel Like It: How to Motivate YourselfBy
DONNA M. WHITE, LMHC, CACPLet’s be honest, we all have some time where we just don’t feel like it. The “it” may be going to work, tackling a project, completing chores, helping the kids with homework, or just getting out of the bed. Whatever the “it” is, sometimes we just don’t feel like doing it.
I’ve been in this slump lately. I’ve noticed that often when I’m unmotivated, I’m usually overwhelmed. Being overwhelmed is just one reason for being unmotivated. Not sleeping well can often be a reason for lack of motivation. Other reasons include, but are not limited to: stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, feel of failure, or just disinterest in the task at hand.
It should be noted that if you experience lack of motivation for an extended period of time with no or infrequent breaks, you may wish to talk to your physician as it could be a sign of other conditions.
Whatever your reason for your lack of motivation, there are ways to get it back. These simple solutions may get you motivated in no time.
- Weigh the cost of not getting the task done.
When you can’t think of a reasons to get up and get moving, think of what will happen if you don’t. When we evaluate the costs of not getting something done the answer is usually something negative. If you’re not motivated to exercise, the costs could include gaining weight or health issues. If you’re not motivated to go to work, the cost could include getting further behind.
- Hang around inspiring, motivated people.
If I’m feeling lazy it sure doesn’t help if I’m hanging around other lazy people. Surround yourself with other people who are motivated to do things.
- Look at the benefits and not the difficulties.
When faced with a task that seems to difficult or too daunting, it’s always beneficial to look at the benefits instead of the difficulties. Sure, it may not be the easiest thing to accomplish, but look at what will be accomplished in the end.
Last, but not least, just get started. The longer you put off getting it done, the more time you have to mull over all the negative thoughts and reasons you shouldn’t do it. By just jumping in, it’s a surefire way to get started on whatever “it” is.
Writer Raymond Chandler is quoted as saying, “Ability is what you are capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it.”
You know your abilities. Motivate yourself to get it done, and have a positive attitude about it. Get up and get going!
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