Whatever the definition of motivation, whatever the reason behind it, generally what we mean by motivation is something that makes us get off our asses and get things done.
Those things might be achieving goals, getting work done, tidying the house, getting fit, and so on.
The main point here is, that it’s all about motivating yourself to take action.
You can read all the self help books you want. You can do all the meditations you want. You can listen to all the pep talks you want…
but by far the most motivating thing of all is:
ACTION!
Balance is important in all things.
Motivation may inspire you to action but the thing is that action is what breeds your motivation.
So the next time you’re feeling bored, lethargic, lazy, whatever, and you know you’ve got to get things done, take action.
Even the smallest action breeds a small amount of motivation.
Keep that action moving for a short period of time and you’re motivation will increase without you even realising it until eventually it seems to require no energy to power you, or no thoughts to drive you.
It just happens.
I’ve started using the Wii for this purpose. When I’m in my office and I find myself just browsing the web or whatever and basically getting nothing done I go play Tennis or Boxing on the Wii until I feel alive again.
It’s so much easier to face the work I want to do in my office then. I usually get a burst of work done and then if I need to I go back to the Wii again.
I think definitely it needs to be a “burst” of energy. Those games get my heart rate going, they get me up and moving. You need something to do that to you. The fact that the games are fun and challenging helps for me too. Sometimes I’d go do something different that requires movement like tidying the kitchen or whatever but definitely it doesn’t have the same effect.
You want something that gets your heart rate going but doesn’t tire you out. If at all possibly it should be a challenge and involve achieving some sort of goal because then not only will your energy start flowing but also you’ll feel better about yourself because you’ve achieved a goal (or at least gotten closer to it).
I like the Wii because it’s getting me active and so is contributing to my fitness(One of my goals). I can do it anytime I want. It’s fun and challenging. As I get better my opponents do also. I have a goal to aim for.
So, to summarise:
- Take action to feel motivated.
- The action should.
- Involve a burst of energy.
- Get your heart rate going.
- Not tire you out.
- be easy to just do without a lot of preparation (none if possible).
- and if possible.
- be fun and challenging.
- and achieve some small goal of yours.
What do you have in your life, or what can you find that’ll fit those criteria?
Have fun!
Tags: Action, Goals, Motivation
