It’s often the simplest things in life that are the hardest to find the motivation to do. We all know that drinking more water, exercising, getting a certain amount of sleep, and having a balanced diet is necessary for a healthy life. But by golly, it's not always easy to find the motivation to start new habits that will benefit you in the long run.
It takes 18 to 254 days to form a new habit. This shows that there’s no one-size-fits-all. Every person has a different level of self-motivation. For some of us, it can take all the energy we have to start a new habit. And even then, that doesn’t seem to be enough. The biggest part of finding the motivation to do the hard yet necessary things is finding out the method that works best for you.
There are many ways to push yourself to the next level. Remember that there’s no rush. The best place to start is honouring where you’re at right now, loving yourself in the place you’re in, and embracing the process. Some ways to start are to:
- Journal your goals and why you want to achieve them. It’s helpful to come back to your ‘why’ on days when you want to quit.
- Leave yourself motivational notes, and have fun with it! (“Dang, boo, look at you drinking all that water.” ;))
- Keep track of your progress along the way. Notice when it’s a tough day, and show yourself some love. Notice when it’s an easy day, and show yourself some love. We are ALL about that self-love.
Take it one goal at a time. It’s overwhelming tackling too many things at once. Take time to pick one thing to focus on and then bump it up to the next level when you are ready. It doesn’t matter how long it takes, and it’s natural to face setbacks along the way. Actually, expect many setbacks and struggles before you begin. It’s part of the process, and you are human. We tend to fumble our way to the next level.
Don’t dabble in comparison. Whether it’s on social media or in your everyday interactions with others, don’t give comparison a second of attention. Every person is different. Everyone has a different body type, motivational level, and area of expertise. What is easy for them, may not be easy for you. What is easy for you, may not be easy for them. Self-love grows from self-acceptance. You’re you, and you’re wonderful. When comparison comes to have a dance, take the lead and turn that tango into a celebration of differences.
Celebrate your goals. Even if it is small and it seems ridiculous, celebrate your goals. Small growth is still growth. Be proud of the tiny steps. You’re taking the lead on your life! That’s something to get loud about.
Surround yourself with positive influences. Our biggest influences right now are on social media. Who we follow, what we watch, and the information we take in has an influence on how we feel about ourselves. Set yourself up for success by surrounding yourself with positive influences.
The best time to make a change or learn a lesson is when it’s right for you, not the calendar. Whatever your goals are and whatever you need the motivation to do, remember these things.
- You are a badass.
- You can do hard things.
- You deserve to rest.
- It’s okay if you can’t do this on your own.
- There’s no shame in asking for help.
Go get it, boo — at your own pace and in your own time.
We’d love to hear about your process of finding the motivation to do the hard things in life. Feel free to get a little vulnerable in the comments below.
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Jade is a freelance writer and copy editor, living in a sleepy town in Northern Ontario. She loves growing plants, playing with dirt, and staying cozy.
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