It’s a new year and you’re ready for a fresh, new start. The first few weeks are easy. You motivation is immeasurable. Thoughts of change and the amazing possibilities ahead has you excited. But how do you stay motivated and passionate when the newness wears off and the daily grind sets in? Check out these tips for a quick start:
Surround yourself with like minded people. Regularly attending a recurring networking event, hanging in a bookstore cafe, or heading out to a write-in at your local library is an easy way to connect with others like you.
Declutter your workspace. Nothing curbs motivation like being greeted with random piles of “stuff” on your workspace. Keep it clear of unnecessary papers, writing instruments, and anything else that is a distraction. Consider a workstation purge to get yourself organized.
Set goals and reward yourself. Now that you want to sit at your newly decluttered space, set writing goals and reward yourself when you reach major ones. For example, a daily goal might be a writing a certain number of words before 5 p.m. If you reach that goal, even a small, “I did it!” is a great reward.
Be aware of your inner voice. How you talk to yourself can have positive or negative effects on your motivation. It’s the Self-Fulfilling Prophecy: if you repeatedly say you can’t do it, you won’t. Therefore, start by being positive with yourself. Check out a book on positive affirmations and leave yourself little notes to remind you that, YES I CAN.
Be positive with others. I’m a firm believer that whatever you put out into the universe comes back. Choose to be positive with others, even when they may not deserve it. It will breed more positivity. Additionaly, you can feel the negative energy around you fade away. From time to time, negativity may still find you. Learn to master the art of changing the conversation or situation to something more positive, or simple choose not to engage.
Take frequent breaks. An overwhelmed or over stimulated person is an unproductive one. Schedule breaks into your workday like a mini-meeting. Set your phone alarm and walk away from your writing for 10 minutes (or longer). Nothing beats a good mental break for overcoming frustration or burn-out.
Exercise. Go for a run, meditate, do yoga. Whatever you prefer, exercise results in reduced stress and improvement of your focus. Consequently, the added benefit of releasing endorphins also makes you feel happy. Happy people are productive, motivated, and successful.
Thank you for reading. Now we want to hear from you! Tell us what you do to get and stay motivated with your writing.
Love these tips!!