What is self-motivation? It’s that inner voice that urges you on. It’s a drive that comes from within and gives you the reason to do more. Rather than relying on encouragement from others, it’s intrinsic – something that resides within (1).
Yes, I am driven, like an old Honda Civic that won’t give up – frequently going into the shop for small repairs and maintenance, but still running. I go after hobbies with great intensity. Somehow, as I age, I develop more discipline and drive. How about you? Has your self-motivation improved as you’ve grown up (or grown older)?
Some time ago, a friend said that she wished she had my energy level. I said, “What?!” I’m passed out by nine o’clock on most evenings. I hop myself up on caffeine every morning and most early afternoons. Then I realized that she probably meant that she wished she had my drive. Ok, I can get that!
One way to foster stronger self-motivation is to break a long-term goal into smaller, achievable chunks. (2). For example, I have a goal to run a half marathon (13.1 miles). I’m starting with a 5K (3.1 miles) race this fall and hoping for a 10K (6.2 miles) in the spring. This would be followed by the half marathon in the fall of 2024 or spring of 2025 – if I can steer clear of injuries and illnesses.
Another is to celebrate and recognize your successes. Take every opportunity to feel great about what you’ve accomplished so far (2). But be cautious in choosing your rewards. Which ones will improve your health, or at least not create negative consequences?
Get help wherever you can (2). Whether it’s from friends, family members, support groups, or a medical provider, try not to be shy and ask for what you need. Go and find your support if it’s not already in place at home.
Would you like to take a short but thought-provoking quiz on self-motivation? https://www.mindtools.com/adosk97/how-self-motivated-are-you
As you may recall, I’m a big fan of Coursera – with its many free learning tools. In fact, several of my posts have been based upon their materials. From full length, for-credit courses to simple how-to articles, there’s truly something for everyone! This includes those of us trying to find new ways to improve our self-motivation. Here’s a list of their ideas on how to get back on track when you stumble:
- “Put your goal on the calendar.
- Make working toward your goal a habit.
- Plan for imperfection.
- Set small goals to build momentum.
- Track your progress.
- Reward yourself for the little wins as well as the big ones.
- Embrace positive peer pressure.
- Practice gratitude (including for yourself).
- Do some mood lifting.
- Change your environment.
- Remember your ‘why’”(3).
Each of these is developed and explained in the link given in footnote 3. Take a look and give Coursera a try!
I hope that today’s post has helped you find motivational tools to work toward your goals. Or maybe re-evaluate and update them? Let’s keep this in mind as we move forward to maintain our healthy weight!
(1). https://www.betterup.com/blog/what-is-self-motivation
(3). https://www.coursera.org/articles/how-to-motivate-yourself
Maintain Weight Loss 