How to Build & Keep Motivation

Motivation is a strange thing, as it takes motivation to become motivated. Motivation generally occurs in the areas of people's lives where they anticipate the greatest rewards. In situations where the rewards are harder to come by, it can be difficult to keep motivation, even if the rewards would be great eventually.

Instructions

• 1

  Build motivation by setting goals. If the goal you set is far off or difficult to achieve, identify smaller goals along the way. Make sure the goal you set is really your goal, not someone else's goal for you. For example, if your parent or spouse wants you to be in a certain career.

• 2

  Make a list of the rewards you will get for meeting goals. If the rewards are not naturally occurring, then make some of your own. For example, if you work harder by staying at work a few extra hours each week for a month, reward yourself with a special dinner or pair of shoes.

• 3

  Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Take time for yourself and eat healthy, sleep enough and exercise. Feeling good about yourself will improve your attitude and outlook on life.

• 4

  Surround yourself with other motivated people. Surround yourself with people who share your values instead. Other motivated people will help keep you feeling motivated.

• 5

  Take inventory of, and assess your opportunities regularly. Although you do not need to jump on every opportunity that comes your way, knowing that you have options will help you feel better about what you do choose to do, and help you feel like you can succeed.

• 6

  Be your own biggest fan. Keep in touch with yourself and what you want in life. As long as you are working toward things that are important to you or something you want, you should find the motivation. When the motivation wanes, it is time to assess if your interests or goals have changed as well.