Staying motivated can be a challenge for us all. We may have big plans and great intentions at the beginning of the day, but come evening it’s often been a struggle to stay focused and keep our energy levels up. It’s important to understand why it can be difficult to stay motivated and what you can do to help yourself stay on track.
The Science Behind Lapses in Motivation
So what is actually happening when we’re struggling to stay motivated? It all has to do with dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is responsible for feelings of pleasure, reward, and motivation—as well as attention, learning, and working memory. The good news is that dopamine is also associated with goal-oriented behavior; it helps us feel energized while we work towards a particular goal or project. The bad news is that dopamine can wear off over time as our body builds up tolerance to its effects.
We may find ourselves fighting against this natural cycle by pushing ourselves too hard and putting too much pressure on ourselves. This can lead to burnout and make it even harder for us to get back in the groove when it comes time to focus again. It’s important to recognize when this is happening and take steps to prevent it from getting out of control.
Tips To Help You Stay on Track
The most effective way of staying motivated is by setting yourself small, achievable goals each day or week that will gradually help you reach your larger goals over time. For example, if your end goal is to start a business then set yourself weekly tasks such as creating a business plan, researching potential suppliers etc., so that you have something tangible each week that you can work towards. Having something concrete that you have accomplished will help boost your motivation levels for the next task ahead.
It's also important to give yourself regular breaks throughout the day or week so that you don't become overwhelmed by your tasks or deadlines. Taking regular breaks will allow you time away from work which can help clear your mind and refocus your energy on completing tasks more effectively once you return back into work mode. Taking breaks also gives your brain a chance to recharge which will help prevent any feeling of burnout or fatigue during periods where there are lots of tasks needing completion.
Staying motivated isn't always easy but by understanding why it's hard and taking steps such as setting achievable goals, taking regular breaks, and rewarding yourself along the way, we can make sure we stay focused on our end goals without becoming overwhelmed or burnt out in the process! If you're struggling with staying motivated then why not try some of these tips out today? With a bit of effort and dedication, you'll soon find yourself back on track!
Blog written by:
Lisa Anderson
Owner of A Healing Place