The Procrastinator’s Guide to Self-Motivation

How to Get Yourself Moving When You Don’t Feel Like It

Self-motivation is a challenge for everyone, but it can be especially difficult for procrastinators. When you are feeling unmotivated, it can be hard to get started on a task. You may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or simply uninterested. However, there are a few things you can do to boost your self-motivation and get yourself moving.

1. Set realistic goals

One of the biggest mistakes that procrastinators make is setting unrealistic goals. When you set goals that are too ambitious, it can be discouraging if you don’t meet them. This can lead to a vicious cycle of procrastination and disappointment.

Instead, set realistic goals that you are more likely to achieve. Break down your larger goals into smaller, more manageable steps. This will make your goals seem less daunting and more achievable.

For example, if your goal is to write a 10-page research paper, don’t try to write it all in one sitting. Instead, break it down into smaller steps, such as:

• Choose a topic
• Do your research
• Create an outline
• Write an introduction
• Write the body of the paper
• Write a conclusion
• Revise and edit your paper

By breaking down your goal into smaller steps, you will be more likely to stick to it and achieve it.

2. Break down tasks into smaller steps

In addition to setting realistic goals, it is also helpful to break down tasks into smaller steps. This will make the task seem less daunting and more achievable.

For example, if your task is to clean your room, don’t try to clean it all in one go. Instead, break it down into smaller steps, such as:

• Make your bed
• Put away your clothes
• Dust your furniture
• Vacuum the floor
• Mop the floor

By breaking down the task into smaller steps, you will be more likely to start and finish it.

3. Reward yourself

Another way to boost your self-motivation is to reward yourself when you complete a task. This will help you to associate positive feelings with completing tasks.

Rewards can be anything that you enjoy, such as taking a break, watching a TV show, or eating a snack. Choose a reward that is something that you will look forward to, and make sure to give it to yourself as soon as you complete the task.

4. Find a role model

Find someone who is successful and who motivates you. Think about what they do to stay motivated and try to emulate their behavior.

For example, if you are a student, you may want to find a successful student who is good at staying motivated. You could ask them for advice on how they stay focused and on top of their work.

5. Change your environment

Sometimes, a change of environment can help to boost your motivation. If you are always working in the same place, try working in a different location. This could be a coffee shop, a library, or even a different room in your house.

Changing your environment can help you to focus better and avoid distractions.

6. Take care of yourself

Finally, it is important to take care of yourself in order to boost your self-motivation. Make sure that you are getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly.

When you are taking care of yourself, you will have more energy and focus to devote to your work.

Additional tips to Self-motivation

Here are a few additional tips for procrastinators:

• Start with the hardest task first. This will get the worst part out of the way and make the rest of the task seem easier.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you are struggling with a task, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a friend, family member, or colleague.
• Take breaks. It is important to take breaks when you are working on a task. This will help you to stay focused and avoid burnout.
• Celebrate your successes. When you complete a task, take the time to celebrate your success. This will help you to stay motivated and keep working towards your goals.

Final thoughts

Self-motivation is a skill that takes time and effort to develop. However, by following the tips above, you can learn to boost your self-motivation and get yourself moving when you don’t feel like it.

Remember, the most important thing is to start. Once you get started, it will be easier to keep going. And the more tasks you complete, the more motivated you will be to keep working.