5 Tips to Staying Motivated at Work
Ah, nothing like a good ol’ work day – from figuring out which task to do first when they all seem equally important, never-ending emails that you can’t really ignore, and don’t forget the constant interruptions. As a wellness educator and teacher, I've seen firsthand how the workplace can be both a source of inspiration and a drain on personal motivation. It’s easy to focus on the negatives at work and around us, but it’s a better use of our mental and emotional energy to instead keep our motivation buckets filled and our spirits high! Here are 5 tips to help boost your motivation at work.
1. Find Your "Why": In the midst of deadlines and to-do lists, it's easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. Ask yourself, "Why am I doing what I'm doing?" Discovering your purpose behind the daily grind can provide a powerful motivation boost. Whether it's to build your expertise in your field, develop new skills, or provide for your family, your "why" will fuel your passion and remind you that your efforts matter.
2. Consider Impact: Take a moment to reflect on the impact of your work. Consider whose lives are positively influenced by the tasks you perform. Who benefits from your contributions? Recognizing the broader significance of your efforts can add a sense of purpose and fulfillment, fueling your motivation to excel and make a difference in the lives of others. Remember, finding inspiration in the positive outcomes of your work can be a powerful driving force on your professional journey.
3. Practice Mindful Escapism. While mindfulness is often associated with staying present, there are times when a brief mental escape can reignite our motivation. Create a personal "happy place" corner in your office, filled with elements that help you escape. It could be a photo from a vacation that transports you back to that relaxing beach, or a potted plant that helps you stay grounded. Take short breaks to enjoy your happy place, especially when you’re feeling stressed or in a slump. Close your eyes, and visualize yourself in your favorite peaceful setting. This practice can refresh your mind and renew your motivation to tackle tasks with newfound energy.
4. Positive thinking. Does your job enable you to create a lifestyle you cherish for yourself and your family? Perhaps it opens doors to explore new places and connect with fascinating individuals. Maybe you have a hybrid schedule that allows you to better balance work and life, and finally do that gym morning routine. Think about how your work engages your mind, encourages critical thinking and empowers you to be a problem-solver. Embrace these possibilities as fuel for your motivation.
5. Under promise, over deliver. Nothing beats the satisfaction of over delivering and leaving your boss and colleagues in awe, wondering how you managed to achieve such remarkable results. Seek opportunities to take initiative and pleasantly surprise your superiors with impactful, unexpected contributions to the company. Then, don't shy away from being your own publicist, compose a brief email detailing your accomplishments. Celebrate your achievements and cheer yourself on; when others see your enthusiasm, they will undoubtedly join in. After all, everyone relishes feeling appreciated, valued, and celebrated.
Staying motivated in the workplace requires a multifaceted approach that embraces creativity, purpose, and positivity. I encourage you to try out these strategies and adapt them to your unique work environment. Remember, your journey is not just about reaching the destination but enjoying the ride along the way.
