The Power of Motivation

by Heather Waring

LAST week in the column I looked at getting a new job and pointed out that many of the tips could be used in other areas of life.

New starts and making changes happen frequently at this time of year, but how many of you set new year's resolutions and are still sticking to them?

Well done if you are, but often we start off full of enthusiasm, and the mantra this year it is going to be different' trips off the tongue. We believe it too, but only a few weeks in we've lost that head of steam and are back where we started. What's happened? Where has all that motivation gone?

De-motivation is all too often accepted as part of life. If you often feel uninterested in what is going on, and frustration, boredom and dissatisfaction feature strongly in your life, isn't it time to consider how could you regain that spark?

Everyone is motivated by different things. What motivates you? For many it is money; others need challenges or status to feel they are contributing. Many want to be valued or to work as part of a team.

It is easy to blame your job, relationship, etc. for feeling low, but it is more likely to be down to you.

Motivation is about taking action, and the impetus can come from a variety of sources, sometimes as a result of happiness, boredom or having hit rock-bottom. It can often be due to a watershed or major event that has made you take stock. When it hits though it is energizing so why not take advantage and go with it?

So where do you start? If you need a little support and guidance, cast your eye over the following steps and select those that can help the process for you.

-Make sure you are clear about what you are aiming for. Be specific and realistic.

-Invest time in knowing what will work for you. Do your research; for instance, if you are going to set up a business, get some advice before you resign from your job.

-Set short-term deadlines so you see achievements happening which will spur you on and give yourself rewards for every successful step.

-Make sure the timing is appropriate; you will find it hard to lose weight or give up alcohol during Christmas.

-Set up and use your support network. Choose not to share your dreams and ideas with those who are negative. Instead choose those you can rely on, whom you can offload to and who will encourage you. Consider working with a life coach during this time.

Be aware that motivation can easily be discouraged. The everyday demands and the pressures we encounter often leave us drained, and it is all too easy to make excuses. Get into the habit of being motivated and remember how good it feels to experience it and how effective you are as a result. It is something you will need throughout life so embrace it.

Did you know what motivates you or are you clearer now? How could you use your knowledge to be more successful and achieve more? If this article raises your awareness, let me know what motivation has helped you do. It is a powerful force.

I look forward to hearing from you. Email me on [email protected] or write to me at Heather Waring/Features, Guardian House, 480-500 Larkshall Road, Highams Park, London E4 9GD.

12:36 Thursday 30th January 2003

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