I have been receiving and marking lots of students assignments lately which suggests that some of you are managing really well to remain motivated. This is really good news, but I think it is important to understand that everyone suffers from time to time from lack of motivation. So how can we keep up the momentum and keep going to reach our goals? Here are a few tips that may help:
1) Think back to what made you start this project in the first place. Close your eyes and try and take yourself back to that excited feeling when you couldn't wait to get started -remember the buzz you got from making the decision and then doing something about it. This should help you get some of that excitement back again
2) Consider WHY you started this project in the first place -what was you goal? Was it to learn more so you could change your career? or perhaps you want to create a beautiful home for you and your family? Whatever the reason, by taking a bit of time to remember the WHY should help motivate you to move forwards.
3) If you are still struggling to get going try not to think of how much more you have to do until you get to the end -just break the work down into small pieces and work on one bit at a time. Sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming, but by doing this you are achieving and moving forwards all the time, and before you know it you will be well on your way to the finishing post!
4) Get someone to help you. I am here to help all my students with their coursework, but of course there is nothing like a bit of family or friend support to help you along as well. Explain to your support friend that you want their help in getting your project done. Obviously they wont be actually helping you do the work, but they can help you by asking you if you have completed your next assignment, or if you are keeping on track with your programme of work. If you show them your work, and they are impressed this will spur you on and give you confidence to produce more.
5) I mentioned in the last point, a programme of work. This isn't for everyone, as some people like to be less structured with their work, but if you are really wanting to get through a course, or project then why not write a timetable or programme. I remember doing this when I was at college. Monday -source tile samples for bathroom project. Thursday -do scale drawings for bathroom. Saturday - Choose colour scheme and complete written work for bathroom assignment -etc. If you can stick to thisplan, and tick things off as you do them you will really see your progress.
6) This last point was suggested to me by my business mentor when I was feeling a bit lacking in motivation a while ago: Go and read a really good business motivation book -there are literally loads on the shelves to choose from, these can not only re -ignite your interest but help you learn a lot in the process. Another way to learn and get motivated is to subscribe to free pod casts and e newsletters from entrepreneurs and marketers that can be found on the web. There are so many of these to choose from, but do be warned this style of learning doesn't suit everyone. If anyone finds anything particularly worth looking at drop me a line and I can pass it on to others. Here a a couple to get you started: www.clientmagnets.com and www.exceptionalthinking.co.uk if you subscribe to these newsletters and/or blogs you will get lots of tips and information from expert business marketers.
