Many people find it hard to get motivated to get the things done that they need to. There are ways, however, that can help you push through and accomplish your goals. Consider the following strategies to help you get things done, even if you don't feel like it.
1. Identify What You Need to Accomplish
Before you start trying to get things done, know exactly what it is that you need to accomplish. That includes how long it will take. Have a clear objective and figure out how much time you have to complete it. Then, try to determine what time increments (e.g. per day, per week) you will need to set aside to work on it.
2. Take a Step in the Right Direction
Getting started is the most important step. Even if it's just a small task, getting the ball rolling will help you move forward.
"Take one small step," says Life Purpose Institute.* "Are you avoiding that big writing project? Instead of concentrating on all the things you need to do to get the job done, commit to taking one small step toward completing the project. Maybe that means finding three excellent articles on your topic or putting together an outline. Just commit yourself to taking one step in the right direction."
3. Turn Your Project into a Series of Smaller Tasks
It can be helpful to think of a large project as the sum of a number of smaller ones. It's easier to get motivated to work on a smaller project, so if you treat the whole thing as a number of these, it can all be less intimidating. Set small goals to reach along the way, and you'll be pleased by the progress you make over time.
4. View Projects and Tasks as Goals Rather than Chores
Ayelet Fishbach at Harvard Business Review suggests designing goals, not chores, to help you motivate yourself.
"Ample research has documented the importance of goal setting," Fishbach says.** "Studies have shown, for example, that when salespeople have targets, they close more deals, and that when individuals make daily exercise commitments, they’re more likely to increase their fitness levels. Abstract ambitions—such as ‘doing your best’—are usually much less effective than something concrete, such as bringing in 10 new customers a month or walking 10,000 steps a day. As a first general rule, then, any objectives you set for yourself or agree to should be specific."
5. Try Using Timers
When you set out to work on your project, try using a timer to give yourself a specific amount of time to work, and then take a break. If you set it for 30 minutes, for example, you can work on the project for a manageable amount of time before rewarding yourself with a break. Then, you can reset and repeat. Breaking your work time up into chunks can make it less overwhelming.
6. Use a To-Do List
Create a to-do list for your project, and then cross items off as you complete them. The more items you get crossed off, the more accomplished you'll feel, and the easier it will be to get motivated to complete the remaining tasks.
7. Eliminate Distractions
When you begin work on your project, remove distractions. Don't work with the television on, for example. If your project is something that can be done on your computer, sit down, and focus.
8. Have a Routine
If you don't have a routine, develop one. Doing so can help you manage time, reduce stress, and increase productivity. A routine can transform tasks into habits, making it easier to stay consistent in your work, which will help you realize your goals more quickly.
We all feel unmotivated on occasion, but even when these feelings arise, things need to be done. Luckily, strategies like those discussed above can help us break out of these ruts and push through challenging days to accomplish our goals.
* https://lifepurposeinstitute.com/10-ways-to-get-things-done-even-when-you-dont-want-to/
** https://hbr.org/2018/11/how-to-keep-working-when-youre-just-not-feeling-it