Want to tackle that to-do list? Need to stay on track with your workout routine? Well, maybe you need a little motivation so you don’t give up. But did you know you don’t need more motivation? You have all that you need!
Motivation is inside us all. It's not something that you lose, it's something you always have. But you must learn how to tap into it. Finding what works for you might take some trial and error. But, it is well worth the effort. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
When I decided to get a hold of my finances, I was amazed at how much it was like starting a new diet or workout routine. I had to unlearn the bad habits and replace them with good ones. But it's so easy to fall back into those comfortable routines. Some things worked, some things didn’t. The motivation journey has given me so many useful tools to keep me moving forward. I figured, if they were so helpful for me, they might help you as well.⠀
Whatever you’re needing motivation for, it's waiting for you. All you need to do is turn it on!
Some ways to tap into your motivation:
- Tracking charts (you knew that one was coming!)
- Visualizing the future you want
- Mantras
- Planning rewards for hitting milestones goals
- Organizing and beautifying your planner
- Writing your Why Statement
- Find your tribe
Tracking charts
Whether you are organizing your finances, tracking a goal, or creating a new habit, there’s a chart for that. Simple to use, and quick to see your progress, these are great ways to turn your motivation up full blast! You don’t have to wonder where you are, a simple glance will show you your progress. Don’t forget how fun and satisfying they are to color! One of the best parts, there are a lot of free ones out there, like my debt payoff trackers below!
Visualizing the Future you Want
What makes a vision board so great? It’s personalized to the life you want. It’s a great way to hone in on your main goals. Seeing your goals keeps them in the front of your mind. Wake up everyday, and remind yourself that the hard work will pay off, just keep your eye on the prize! And these days, vision boards can even be created online using sites like Canva.com!
Mantras
I used to think mantras were a bit out there. I mean, how could repeating something really make a difference? Then I realized, I do them all the time! A mantra is a word, phrase, or sound you repeat to help you concentrate, to regroup. I think back to the SNL sketch: “I’m good enough, I’m smart enough, and gosh darn it, people like me”. It can be that simple. Something that you go to that helps you slow down, calm down, and refocus. I’ve used them with household cleaning “it’ll be worth it when I’m done”. I do it with my finances: “budgeting gives us the freedom to spend”. And of course, if you’re in the thick of it with kids- young or old- “this too shall pass”!
Planning Rewards for Reaching Goals⠀
Take it back old school! Who had a star chart growing up? Every single one of my kids had a Potty Star Chart. Let’s face it, being rewarded, and acknowledged for a job well done, never gets old! So what is your reward for deep cleaning your house? Dinner at your favorite restaurant?- we wouldn’t want to mess up that kitchen! Managing your budget: you could save for a family fun day or vacation. Rewards don’t have to be extravagant, something that keeps you on track. Something that gives you a sense of accomplishment. This can be used alongside a chart or a vision board. Get the whole family involved on big projects!
Organizing and Beautifying your Planner
Besides charts, this is my 2nd happy place! I love organizing and beautifying planners. When my calendar and to-do lists are neat, pretty, and organized I feel like I could rule the world! From stickers to dividers, to all-in-one planners, find what works for you. When everything has a place, it motivates me to tackle all the things. If it’s all over the place, I am too overwhelmed to begin! Remember, planners can also be digital.
Check out my Ultimate Planner Pack & Floral 2021 Calendar in the Debt Free Charts shop!
Writing your Why Statement
In order for a business to be successful, it needs to have a clear vision statement. Businesses aren’t as successful if they cannot communicate their goals and objectives. How can we be successful if we don’t know our "why"? You can do something as simple as a sticky note on the bathroom mirror to a piece of art that you hang for the world to see. When you know your “why”, obstacles are easier to navigate!
Find your Tribe
While you can tap into your motivation at any given time, it doesn’t mean you have to do any of this alone. Reaching your goals is so much more fulfilling and fun if you do it with people. Be a part of a fitness community. Join a small business group if you’re trying to grow your business. Share with your friends and family the goals you’ve set. When the road gets tough, it’s easier to have people come alongside you.
What ignites your motivation: lists, people, statements? Try some or all of these tips and watch your motivation take off! We can do anything when we tap into our inner motivation.
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I'd love to know your thoughts - what helps you tap into your motivation? Let me know in the comments section below!
Related:
9 Steps to Gaming Your Goals
8 Keys to Reaching Your Biggest Goals
