After the rather ranting, kvetching blog entry I just finished (see below or above or WTF) I thought I would be more-blatantly positive and post something about my current issue and that is how to become more self-motivating (in my case as it pertains to music and / or writing, the exception being my blog LOL.
So here is Chat robot's response to my question of how can I be more self-motivating. (Meanwhile please say a prayer to Mary for the LA folks being effected by fires; victimes of New Orleans terrorist attack, etc.
Becoming more self-motivated is about cultivating habits, mindset shifts, and environments that push you to take consistent action—even when you don't feel like it. Here are some strategies to help boost your self-motivation:
1. Set Clear, Achievable Goals
(Maybe I will work on my music production 30 minutes a day)
Break down big goals: Divide your larger goals into smaller, actionable steps. This makes them feel more attainable and reduces overwhelm.
Make them specific and measurable: Vague goals like "be healthier" can be demotivating because they’re hard to measure. Instead, make your goals concrete, like "Exercise for 30 minutes, 3 times this week."
2. Find Your ‘Why’
(Because I have tremendous untapped talent and feel I'm not taking advantage of expressing itself--if only for the sheer joy of blowing my own horn about how good my fucking music is!)
Clarify your motivation: Understand why you want to accomplish something. Whether it's long-term benefits (like better health, financial security) or emotional fulfillment (feeling proud, confident), knowing your deeper reasons will make it easier to push through obstacles.
Visualize success: Think about how you’ll feel once you’ve achieved your goals. Creating a mental image of success can create positive emotions that propel you forward.
3. Cultivate Discipline
(Start tomorrow--can I do it?)
Build habits over time: Motivation fluctuates, but discipline doesn't. Start small—build daily habits, like writing for 10 minutes a day or exercising for 15 minutes—and grow from there.
Start with "just one thing": On days you lack motivation, tell yourself, "I’ll just do this one small thing." The momentum from completing even a small task can carry you to do more.
4. Create an Environment that Supports You
(TT for the Sensitive Musician--attend it this week, share goals).
Limit distractions: Minimize interruptions in your workspace. If you're trying to focus, use apps to block distractions or create a designated, quiet space for work.
Surround yourself with inspiration: Keep visual cues (like motivational quotes or vision boards) around you that remind you of your goals. Positive reminders can help shift your mindset.
5. Develop a Growth Mindset
Embrace setbacks as learning opportunities: Instead of viewing failure as defeat, reframe it as part of the process. Mistakes can offer valuable lessons that push you forward.
Celebrate small wins: Recognize and reward yourself for achieving even the smallest milestones. Positive reinforcement helps build momentum.
6. Accountability and Support
(Find a new therapist!)
Share goals with others: Tell someone close to you about your goals, or better yet, find an accountability partner. Knowing someone is checking in with you can make it harder to procrastinate.
Join a community: Whether it’s an online group or a local meet-up, surrounding yourself with others who share similar goals can provide support, inspiration, and encouragement.
7. Practice Self-Compassion
Pray more, think self-love, even when self-releasing : )
Avoid harsh self-criticism: If you have a setback or miss a goal, be kind to yourself. Negative self-talk can sap your motivation. Instead, practice self-compassion and focus on what you can do better moving forward.
Forgive yourself and move forward: If you get off track, don’t linger on guilt. Acknowledge the mistake, adjust your course, and get back to work.
8. Make the Process Enjoyable
Silicon-based lube LOL.
Find joy in the journey: Motivation is easier when you enjoy what you’re doing. Try to connect your tasks to things you genuinely enjoy—whether that’s through music, podcasts, or finding creative ways to make your routine engaging.
Gamify your tasks: Turn your work into a game. Set mini-challenges for yourself (e.g., "Can I complete this task in 20 minutes?") or track your progress in a fun, visual way (like using a habit tracker or points system).
9. Focus on Progress, Not Perfection
(Just that)
Let go of the need to be perfect: Perfectionism can stall progress and make tasks feel insurmountable. Aim for progress instead. Ask yourself: "What’s the next step?" rather than fixating on an end result.
10. Prioritize Self-Care
(More sober days, be sure to work out today and keep up with the oat-bran)
Take care of your body and mind: Regular exercise, good nutrition, enough sleep, and mental health practices like meditation can keep your energy levels up and make it easier to stay motivated. If you're mentally and physically well, motivation flows more naturally.
11. Use Time Blocks and Breaks
(Try 30 a day--see above)
Use the Pomodoro Technique: Work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. This method helps maintain focus and reduces the feeling of burnout.
Establish a routine: Having a set time each day for your tasks creates a rhythm that makes motivation easier to maintain over time.
12. Stay Flexible
(and STRETCH!!!!!)
Adapt to changing circumstances: Motivation can vary depending on your mood or external factors. Be flexible in how you approach your tasks—if one method isn’t working today, try something different. The key is to keep going, even if you have to adjust your strategy.
13. Inspire Yourself with External Motivation
(this one is a stretch!)
Listen to motivating content: Podcasts, TED Talks, or audiobooks on self-improvement can offer fresh perspectives and energize you when you’re feeling low.
Read success stories: Stories of people who have overcome obstacles can provide perspective and give you a sense of possibility.
Maybe first ask myself WHY? And then find a damn good reason. Only watching movies and drinking beer and getting stoned is fun and feels good but doesn't really lead anywhere? N'est Pa?
Remember, motivation isn't always something that just happens—it’s something you can actively cultivate through habits, mindset, and external influences. By building these practices into your daily life, you'll make self-motivation feel less like a battle and more like a natural part of your routine.
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