Rekindling Motivation
Therapist-Approved Tips Getting and Staying on Track to Make Changes This Fall
October is such a beautiful month. The colours…the sunshine…the pumpkin-spice…
Even though it can be seen as a season that moves us toward the dormancy of winter, many people see it as a time to settle into routine and do a little tune up with habits and goals
When we are working on change, there will be times when motivation wanes, and the journey ahead seems daunting. We get it:
- Because being a therapist exposes us to a lot of people who are brave enough to tackle the tough stuff. Human nature inevitably leads us down a path or low-motivation, frustration and feelings of defeat. AND
- Because we are human, too!
Here are some tips to help you either set or press the reset button on some goals:
Re-evaluate
Sometimes, the goals we set initially may no longer align with our current values or circumstances. It's perfectly okay to reassess and modify your goals as needed. Take some time to reflect on whether your goals still resonate with you. Are they still meaningful and relevant? Adjusting your goals can breathe new life into your motivation.
Break It Down
Big goals can feel overwhelming, and that can zap your motivation. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps. Each small victory will boost your confidence and reignite your drive. It's like climbing a mountain – one step at a time, and soon you'll reach the summit.
Visualize Success
Close your eyes and picture yourself achieving your goal. Feel the emotions, see the positive outcomes, and envision the sense of accomplishment. Visualization can be a powerful tool to reignite your motivation and keep your eyes on the prize.
Seek Accountability
Share your goals with a friend, family member, or mentor who can provide support and hold you accountable. When you know someone is rooting for your success, it can provide an extra dose of motivation. Regular check-ins and progress reports can help you stay on track.
Celebrate Small Wins
Don't wait until you've reached your ultimate goal to celebrate. Acknowledge and celebrate your small victories along the way. Treat yourself to something special or simply take a moment to appreciate your progress. These mini-celebrations can keep your motivation alive and well.
Stay Inspired
Read books (check out our recommendations here) listen to podcasts, or attend seminars related to your goal. Surrounding yourself with inspiration can reignite your passion and enthusiasm. Learning from others who have achieved similar goals can be a powerful motivator.
Practice Self-Compassion
Remember that setbacks are a part of any journey. Be kind to yourself when you face challenges or experience moments of low motivation. Self-compassion allows you to bounce back with renewed determination instead of dwelling on past failures.
Stay Flexible
Life is unpredictable, and there will be obstacles along the way. Instead of seeing them as roadblocks, view them as opportunities to learn and adapt. Flexibility in your approach can help you overcome setbacks and keep moving forward.
Get Professional Support
If you find yourself consistently struggling to stay motivated or your goals are stressing you out, consider seeking support from a therapist. A mental health professional can help you explore any underlying issues and provide strategies to keep you on the path to success.
Achieving your goals can be challenging, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can reignite your motivation and make steady progress. Remember that it's okay to take a step back, reassess, and adjust your goals as needed.
You have the power to overcome obstacles and achieve the goals that matter most to you. Keep pushing forward, and you'll be amazed at what you can accomplish. Stay persistent, celebrate your wins, and seek support to help you stay accountable to yourself and achieve your goals faster.