How To Motivate Yourself & Stay Motivated
These past few months have been difficult for all and our productivity and motivation may have suffered as a result. Here are a few tips and tricks give to keep you motivated so you can effectively complete your work during difficult times.
1. Set achievable, small goals
By creating small, manageable goals, you can effectively complete your tasks without becoming tired and unmotivated. Limit each task to a maximum set time, for example, working effectively for 20 to 30 minutes and taking a small break in between tasks. Think about treating yourself once you’ve finished your task. A snack, 10 minutes on Instagram or a walk around the block, find something that makes you happy and keeps you motivated.
2. Recognise why you procrastinate
It is important to recognise why you don’t want to complete a task, perhaps the work seems boring or you are finding it difficult to research your subject. Below I have created a list of common reasons for procrastination and what to do when you feel stuck.
Researching the subject feels too difficult- Use applications such as Google Scholar when completing academic research to narrow down useful and unuseful work. Look in your local or university library for books relating to your subject and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Create mind maps of everything you’ve researched so you can narrow it down later on.
The task ahead feels too long- Break down your project into small pieces and work on each section for roughly half an hour. Allow yourself breaks in between to remember to keep drinks and snacks on hand. Tick off each section once completed to feel a sense of achievement.
When the task doesn’t interest you- Like the point above, I would recommend that you break down the task into smaller pieces. Find other ways of completing research that may interest you instead. Find a documentary, podcast, or YouTube video about the subject and use this as a more fun way of learning the subject.
You’re not in the mood to do work- Create an incentive to help you finish the work. Perhaps organise a fun activity such as a movie night to keep you motivated to finish sooner.
3. Plan your time effectively
Whether it’s an elaborate timetable or some scribbles on a piece of paper, creating a plan will make you think about what you need to complete first and what can be left till later. Remember to factor in breaks to avoid fatigue. Try not to put all your favourite activities first as this may cause you to procrastinate later on. Think about ticking off work once it’s complete, giving you a sense of achievement, and keeping you motivated.
4. Study with friends
Utilise the internet. We are lucky enough to have constant access to the internet so why not create a study group? Organise group calls to catch up with friends globally and collaborate on tasks and projects. Use free video call apps such as Zoom, Skype, WhatsApp, or Google Meet to get together with friends. Using video chats are also a good way of keeping you connected with friends, especially when currently we are all separated from each other. Think about creating a group chat to keep everyone up to date and motivated.
5. Most importantly, recognise your achievements!
During times like this, it's hard to stay 100% focused all the time. Don’t be too hard on yourself when things don’t always go to plan. Remember to treat yourself for all the work you have completed and take this chance to learn from mistakes and to persevere.
Below you will find a guide we've created to help you stay on track!
Editor; Lacey Wint
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