How to Stay Motivated in Tough Times?
The past few years have been very difficult for people across the globe, mainly because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The working environment has completely changed, making it hard for people to stay motivated. It is normal to lose your inner drive and get demotivated, but it doesn’t mean you should compromise everything you have worked for.
In this article, I have listed some tips to help you cope with tough times and motivate yourself. Following these tips can motivate you and stay committed to your goals.
Hakuna Matata, the song from The Lion King, teaches us that “when the going gets tough, the tough get going.” This motto teaches us to stay stress-free and be positive in the toughest phases of our lives.
The tips I have mentioned in this article are the ones that would help you stay on track and fuel up your inner drive when you’re down.
Remember Your Goals & Mission
In tough times, I always remember my mission and why I started my journey. I would suggest you ask yourself a few questions:
- What were your goals when you started?
- What have you achieved so far?
- Who would you be letting down if you don’t get up?
Along with getting answers to these questions, you must also write down your achievements and ambitions to remind yourself what you’re working towards.
Take a Break and Please Yourself
Resting yourself is very important, especially when you are going through a tough situation. Sometimes, giving yourself space and rest can help you get back on track.
You can take a holiday and reward yourself with activities that please you. When feeling down, I head out for long walks in the countryside. This gives me peace of mind and reduces stress levels.
You can also do the same or watch a movie, go on a road trip, and indulge in other activities that can reignite your creative side.
Break Down Big & Unrealistic Goals
When you’re in a tough situation draining your motivation, it is best to break down big and scary challenges or tasks.
I use this technique of breaking down my goals and challenging tasks to make them more achievable.
By breaking down your goals and setting smaller tasks, you can be satisfied that you’re progressing towards your core mission.
Celebrate Your Small Victories
When you are working towards a bigger mission, you must keep rewarding yourself and celebrate your small achievements.
Treating yourself would keep you motivated in tough times. You don’t have to have big celebrations every time you achieve something. Giving yourself a small chocolate can also be considered a treat.
Get Inspiration from Your Favorite Movies & Books
I have already discussed the importance of taking short breaks or resting. When I am feeling down or going through a tough phase in life, I usually watch a movie or read a book as it helps me take my mind off and also works as a source of inspiration.
You can also use this technique to choose books or movies that provide an inspirational message. If you don’t want to watch an inspirational movie or read a book, you can stick with the ones you like.
Involve Yourself in Physical Activities
You can also involve yourself in physical activities when stressed or in a tough situation. Start a new workout plan or partner up with a gym buddy.
Swimming, cycling, hiking, or simply going on a walk motivates me the most. So I would also suggest you to get physical.
Other than motivating you, it also has tons of other health benefits. You can keep yourself physically fit and boost your inner drive.
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Practice Gratitude and Self-Affirmation
Take time every day to reflect on what you are grateful for. This might help you be optimistic about the future when times are bad.
When facing tough situations, focusing on what’s going wrong is natural. Instead of worrying about these problems, take a few minutes each day to reflect on what you are grateful for.
Promise Yourself a Big Reward Once You Reach Your Final Goal
Incentives are very important if you want to boost motivation in tough situations. Promising yourself a big incentive or gift once you reach your goal can help you overcome challenges.
You can ask yourself what you want or what can keep you invested in your journey. By setting the perfect reward, you can improve your self-motivation.
Set a Routine to Avoid Procrastination
I always have a routine that I strictly follow, even when I’m feeling down. Building a routine and setting soft deadlines can motivate and help you progress toward your goals.
If you are working without a set plan or routine, there is always a chance that you will get stuck with the feeling of procrastination.
To avoid procrastination (intentionally missing work), you must divide your tasks and create a proper work routine.
Ask for Support/Help
I used to believe that asking for help could be embarrassing, but my views have changed as I have reached most of my life goals and am successful.
Asking for help can be very beneficial during a tough phase in life.
You can ask for help from people who are more experienced than you and the ones who care about you.
Keep Going!
Ultimately, I would suggest to all my readers that you must keep yourself motivated to succeed no matter what happens in life.
Tough times often come in life, and if you want to stay motivated and not compromise on your goals, it is important to follow the ten tips I have discussed in this guide.
These tips would shift your perspective and help you keep moving in life!