When Motivation Wanes…
By Jennifer Snyder
We have amazing ideas, make our plans, purchase our supplies, get started, then fizzle out. What happened? All of us, even the most committed of people have days where we want to stay in our pajamas or go do something fun. When tasks feel daunting or boring it is that much harder to get to it. My advice? Give yourself a break. All work and no play hardly makes for a life worth living.
If, after taking a break, you still struggle to get back on track, here are a few suggestions to try.
Make a list…a very detailed list.By documenting the things needing to be done in detail, it helps us to naturally break down large projects into smaller, more manageable tasks. Consider this: instead of writing "remodel bathroom" on your list, break it down into smaller pieces like "interview contractors" or "turn in loan application". These are so much more manageable and you can actually mark something off your list!
Use a Spoon Full of SugarMary Poppins said "In everything to be done, there is an element of fun. Find the fun and snap, the jobs a game!" This is just as true for adults as children. Cleaning the house can be much more fun with upbeat music. Yard work is much more rewarding when you are in competition with your neighbor. (Yes, I said it.) Now it may be tough to wash dishes while on the lake but there are certainly reasonable ways to make boring tasks more entertaining. Think outside the box, after all, it is your task and your time.
Schedule DistractionsThis is my favorite piece of advice for people crouching before a huge task (think moving). After you have made your detailed list; work on a piece, then do something else with a time limit. Come back and do a little more, then do something else. When you know that you are only required to focus on a boring or overwhelming task for 20 minutes, it is easier to stick with it.
ShadowingWhen all else fails, get a partner. Seldom are the partners required to do anything but sit there and maybe engage in conversation. Having someone there helps you to focus and stay on track. If you are actually paying someone to sit there with you it is even more motivating as distractions become dollars.
Just remember, there is a continuum of productivity and downtime. Breaks are absolutely necessary so accept the downtime for what it is: a refresher. Know, however, when it is time to get moving again. Hopefully this list will inspire you to tackle those nagging tasks so you can pat yourself on the back for a job well done. If these tips don't help, contact us about Accountability Coaching for a more personalized solution.
Have a Neat day!
Jennifer Snyder, Certified Professional OrganizerÒ
Neat as a Pin Organizing Experts
www.neatasapin.netFacebook & Pinterest: Neat as a Pin Organizing Experts
Twitter: @neatasapin
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