Experts Agree: Small Steps Can Lead to Big Motivation Gains
For many people, motivation is a fleeting concept. We might feel enthusiastic about a project or goal at the beginning, but as time goes on, we can easily lose steam. However, what if there was a way to maintain momentum and stay motivated? According to 17 experts in various fields, it's all about taking small steps towards our goals.
First, let's talk about visualization. According to Mel Carruthers, owner of decluttering service More Organized, "Before decluttering or organizing a space, I visualize how the newly organized space will make me feel." By picturing the benefits, you can create a positive association with the task and stay motivated.
Another expert, Chris Bailey, author of Hyperfocus, recommends ditching your devices when feeling unmotivated. A device-free walk around the block can help settle your mind and reorient you towards the task at hand.
If you're struggling to get started, try breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable chunks. According to Craig Hoareau, owner of house organization company A Tidy Mind London, "I remind myself not to wait for motivation as it rarely shows up. What matters is momentum, and momentum starts with something small: tidying one drawer, sending one email."
Keeping a log or tracking your progress can also be incredibly motivating. According to Cal Newport, author of Deep Work, "When I find myself wanting to avoid hard work for busyness, I ask myself: how will you feel tonight when you put down a big zero for your daily deep work hours?"
In addition, engaging your senses can make tasks more enjoyable and increase motivation. Adriene Mishler, host of Yoga with Adriene, suggests "lighting a candle while playing moody music" to focus on yoga lesson planning.
Lastly, don't underestimate the power of tiny acts of tidying or organizing. According to Marie Kondo, organizing consultant and author, "When I feel weighed down by unanswered emails or tedious admin tasks, I turn to tidying a small space." By making these small changes, you can create momentum and build motivation.
So, what's the secret to staying motivated? It's not about grand visions or monumental achievements; it's about taking small steps towards your goals. As Diana Nyad, long-distance swimmer and motivational speaker, said, "It might seem incongruous for an Ironman athlete to talk about making things as easy as possible, but hear me out. Don't think about moving mountains, think about taking one small, easy step."
For many people, motivation is a fleeting concept. We might feel enthusiastic about a project or goal at the beginning, but as time goes on, we can easily lose steam. However, what if there was a way to maintain momentum and stay motivated? According to 17 experts in various fields, it's all about taking small steps towards our goals.
First, let's talk about visualization. According to Mel Carruthers, owner of decluttering service More Organized, "Before decluttering or organizing a space, I visualize how the newly organized space will make me feel." By picturing the benefits, you can create a positive association with the task and stay motivated.
Another expert, Chris Bailey, author of Hyperfocus, recommends ditching your devices when feeling unmotivated. A device-free walk around the block can help settle your mind and reorient you towards the task at hand.
If you're struggling to get started, try breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable chunks. According to Craig Hoareau, owner of house organization company A Tidy Mind London, "I remind myself not to wait for motivation as it rarely shows up. What matters is momentum, and momentum starts with something small: tidying one drawer, sending one email."
Keeping a log or tracking your progress can also be incredibly motivating. According to Cal Newport, author of Deep Work, "When I find myself wanting to avoid hard work for busyness, I ask myself: how will you feel tonight when you put down a big zero for your daily deep work hours?"
In addition, engaging your senses can make tasks more enjoyable and increase motivation. Adriene Mishler, host of Yoga with Adriene, suggests "lighting a candle while playing moody music" to focus on yoga lesson planning.
Lastly, don't underestimate the power of tiny acts of tidying or organizing. According to Marie Kondo, organizing consultant and author, "When I feel weighed down by unanswered emails or tedious admin tasks, I turn to tidying a small space." By making these small changes, you can create momentum and build motivation.
So, what's the secret to staying motivated? It's not about grand visions or monumental achievements; it's about taking small steps towards your goals. As Diana Nyad, long-distance swimmer and motivational speaker, said, "It might seem incongruous for an Ironman athlete to talk about making things as easy as possible, but hear me out. Don't think about moving mountains, think about taking one small, easy step."