Getting over Demotivation

When I joined the MotivationPal team, I expected to learn about the concept of motivation from its very basics. However, a 16-year teaching experience had given me a bit of understanding of the workings of the human mind. Discovering a classroom brimming with motivated students, every day, wasn’t a consistent reality. And it was my endeavor to make my students feel happy to be learning in our class. 

Often, my time was spent in figuring out the source of motivation for a specific student. There were some factors I could help a student with. But, there were things I could not change for a student. Often these included diet and sleep habits. 

But as I observed the world around me, I realized that these factors extend beyond the confines of a classroom. Frequently, the very factors that instill motivation in young children within a classroom setting are also the ones that influence adults in a workplace environment.

To meet our goals, it’s crucial to address the source of demotivation. 

Some of these issues are not in our control. However, if we can solve the ones that are in control, it can have a significant impact on our progress. 

In the classroom, I would offer the students different options to reach their goals. They could submit homework late with some penalty such that they could still maintain a good GPA. The students were respected as individuals. Their concerns were heard and addressed. They were given second chances. There was an effort to build a culture of success. It was a team effort! 

So I would recommend similar strategies for dealing with demotivation in life.

  1. First, try to understand why you’re feeling demotivated. Is it because of a specific task or project? Personal issues? Burnout? Knowing the root cause can help you address it more effectively.
  2.  If your goals seem overwhelming, break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes it easier to make progress and can boost your confidence.
  3. Establish a routine for yourself. Knowing what to expect and having a structured plan can increase your motivation.
  4. Imagine yourself achieving your goals and experiencing the rewards. Visualization can be a powerful motivator.
  5. Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Recognizing your progress can boost your motivation.
  6. Ensure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising regularly. Physical health can significantly impact your motivation.
  7. Don’t forget to take breaks. Overworking can lead to burnout and demotivation. Rest and relaxation are essential for maintaining motivation.
  8. Share your goals with someone who can hold you accountable, such as a friend, family member, or mentor.
  9. Accept that setbacks are a part of any journey. Instead of getting discouraged, view them as opportunities to learn and grow.
  10. If your demotivation is persistent and negatively affecting your life, consider speaking to a therapist or counselor who can provide guidance and support.
  11. Motivation can come and go. It’s normal to have ups and downs. Be patient with yourself and keep moving forward, even when motivation is low.

Staying motivated is not a constant state; it can fluctuate. The key is to build habits and strategies that help you push through demotivated periods and keep progressing toward your goals. MotivationPal helps you do this by periodically reminding you that awareness and incremental success help your energy and motivation.