How do I get started when I am not motivated? Or even worse, what if I don’t want to even start?
You are in luck; we’ve got some handy and quick tricks for you to try. Pick one from the list to gain momentum:
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Split the difference — Sometimes, you can’t get going because you think about what you wish you were doing instead. When that happens, try splitting the difference. Use a timer
do whatever you want work on your project do whatever you want work on your project
- Beat the clock — if you can’t get started because it feels overwhelming, set a timer for 10 minutes and challenge yourself to see how much you can get done in 10 minutes.
- Brain dump — find a piece of paper (or use an empty place in your planner) and write down everything you think. It doesn’t need to be related to what you need to get done. When you finish, look at what came to the surface. Do you need to do something to focus on your work now? Do you need to take your paper and turn it into a list? Is there something you need to schedule time for later and eliminate the distraction now? Is there an obstacle to your work you hadn’t realized that’s keeping you stuck?
- Incentivize yourself — create a small reward you can earn for your hard work. Focusing on the reward helps you stay motivated to reach your goals. A special treat or break is effective when you have accomplished your goal.
- Find a body double! Ask someone to do a similar task alongside you. You can do this in person or over a video call. You aren’t collaboratively working; you are just working next to each other. If it helps, include some accountability. Share what you will work on, and then check in 20, 25 or 30 minutes later to gauge your progress. (Working alone? Try FocusMate.com to increase your productivity online.)
- Positive and realistic self-talk – Be kind to yourself and tell yourself “I'm doing great!”, “This isn't easy but I'm getting there”, “I am focused on what I need to do to achieve my goals”
- Decide quickly, then move on – If you have a lot of small, varied tasks but are struggling with prioritizing them, just make one decision and take action. Spending time preparing to act can be a form of procrastination.
- Define the "finish line" on unfinished tasks – Take a moment to do the final steps that will make it complete, and you can cross it off your list. This gives your your brain a happy serotonin boost!
Pick one you'd like to try this week and make a note in your planner so you have it at the ready when you hit a motivation wall.
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