Tuesday, February 9, 2010

8 Steps To Continuous Self-Motivation

Many of us find ourselves in motivational slumps that we have to work to get out of. Sometimes it’s like a continuous cycle where we are motivated for a period of time, fall out and then have to build things back up again.
A good way to be continuously self-motivated is to implement something like these 8 steps from Ian McKenzie.
Keep a positive attitude: There’s is nothing more powerful for self-motivation than the right attitude. You can’t choose or control your circumstance, but can choose your attitude towards your circumstances.
How I see this working is while you’re developing these mental steps, and utilizing them regularly, self-motivation will come naturally when you need it.
The key, for me, is hitting the final step to Share With Others. It can be somewhat addictive and self-motivating when you help others who are having trouble.
8 mental steps to self-motivation – [Ian'sMessyDesk]

My 8 Steps
I enjoyed Ian’s article but thought it could use some definition when it comes to trying to build a continuous drive of motivation. Here is a new list that is a little more generic:
• 1. Start simple.
• 2. Keep good company.
• 3. Keep learning.
• 4. Stay Positive.
• 5. Stop thinking.
• 6. Know yourself.
• 7. Track your progress.
• 8. Help others.

10 Guaranteed Ways To Burst With Motivation
1. Get into a routine
2. Keep a log
3. Plan ahead
4. Create variety
5. Stay flexible
6. Make running sociable
7. Make time to run
8. Be proud
9. Expect plateaus
10. Look forward to the golden years

Top 20 Motivation Hacks – An Overview
#20: Chart Your Progress.
#19: Hold Yourself Back.
#18: Join an online (or off-line) group to help keep you focused and motivated.
#17: Post a picture of your goal someplace visible — near your desk or on your refrigerator, for example.
#16: Get a workout partner or goal buddy.
#15: Just get started.
#14: Make it a pleasure.
#13: Give it time, be patient.
#12: Break it into smaller, mini goals.
#11: Reward yourself. Often.
#10: Find inspiration, on a daily basis.

#9: Get a coach or take a class.
#8: Have powerful reasons. Write them down.
#7: Become aware of your urges to quit, and be prepared for them.
#6: Make it a rule never to skip two days in a row.
#5: Visualize your goal clearly, on a daily basis, for at least 5-10 minutes.
#4: Keep a daily journal of your goal.
#3: Create a friendly, mutually-supportive competition.
#2: Make a big public commitment. Be fully committed.
#1: Always think positive. Squash all negative thoughts.