We could all use a motivation boost, but what can we do when life gets overwhelming? Recall your past accomplishments and the things you’re proud of.
I’ve heard people suggest talking to your friends and family will increase your morale. Others say scheduling an appointment with a counselor also helps.
All of this is sound advice when used together, but your favorite people won’t always be there to cheer you on because they have bigger responsibilities, or they’re asleep and you’re pulling an all-nighter.
You must find motivation within yourself if you wish for it to stick around. Other people can only give you so much of their energy.
List all the accomplishments you’ve achieved so far. I’d recommend writing it down somewhere, either in your phone or in a notebook. These accomplishments could be anything that made you feel significant progress. It could be something like passing calculus, reading all 1000 pages of Human Action, cleaning your room, or winning a contest. You get the idea.
For me, I like to display my accomplishments on a cork board in my room. I’ve pinned ribbons and copies of the cash prizes I’ve won from art contests, and an “I voted” sticker from the first time I exercised my rights.
You can do the same or hang a list of your accomplishments on your fridge. Wherever you put it, make sure it’s easily visible.
I’m reading The War of Art and the core idea is that “Resistance,” like procrastination or demotivation, is internal. Therefore, we can’t rely heavily on others to resolve it.
March forward but don’t forget to look back and see what you’ve built.