If you are like many, you set some goals for the year (dare I call them “resolutions”). And like many, that initial surge or excitement may be waning. The gyms are starting to get less crowded and for us organizers the volume of inquiries from those who want to “get more organized this year” may be slowing down. So, what’s the secret sauce to staying motivated? It can definitely be tricky and even complex. While I am not a psychologist (nor do I play one on TV), I work with my clients regularly on changing habits and routines in order to reach their organizing goals. With that said, here are some tips and information on how you can March Towards Motivation.
First of all, I believe 2 components need to be present for any change, improvement or goal to be achieved.
1. The want, need and desire aka motivation to want the goal to happen and achieve success.
2. Self-awareness of EXACTLY what needs to be addressed, tweaked or changed.
If you want change but have no idea where to begin or what to address, you won’t get far. And if you have identified what you need to work on but don’t care, you won’t get far. For example, if I want to lose a few pounds (which I always want to do) then I have to know that I need to add more exercise into my weekly schedule and cut back on desserts. I also have to really want that outcome – enough to utilize will power when the brownies are present. If I want it but don’t make those changes, I won’t get the desired results. So, both components need to be present.
Once you have these down, then what? Accountability! The following are questions you should have answers to in order to March Towards Motivation:
1. How are you going to measure your progress?
2. How will you reward even small positive steps?
3. Who do you need on your support team?
4. Do you need a specific accountability partner?
5. How will you handle setbacks? Make a plan as setbacks are likely to happen! Knowing ahead of time how you will “get back on the horse” will lead to a lot less negative self-talk and provide a plan for how to get back on track.
In a recent session with a college student, we explored some of these questions together. She specifically asked about accountability apps. Here are some for you to look into:
Additionally, I absolutely loved these 2 books that have a wealth of ideas and information on the topic:
1. “The Motivation Breakthrough: 6 Secrets to Turning on the Tuned-Out Child” by Richard Lavoie. Don’t let the title deter you as the book can be helpful for anyone. I especially loved the 6 different ways people are motivated.
2. “Atomic Habits” by James Clear. The cover says it all – “Tiny Changes, Remarkable Results”. I loved the author’s approach!
Motivation is a muscle that needs to be conditioned like any other part of our body. If you’ve heard it takes 2-3 weeks for new habits to kick in, know that the timeframe will likely be longer. That’s one reason why we struggle to keep motivation maintained as we all want immediate results. You have to put the effort in EVERY SINGLE DAY for a solid month. If you miss a day, you should plan to start the count over.
It’s hard work! I hear ya! The feelings of success, achievement and pride (and not just for the recent Olympic medalists) are worth the effort. I believe in you and together we can March Towards Motivation.
REASONS I LOVE BEING A PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZER
