“How can I get motivated and stay motivated?” This is a question I hear frequently. I answer this question in lectures, but here is a brief answer that summarises lengthier responses.

Use positive self-talk: We all talk to ourselves, and it is sad that often we disempower ourselves rather than build ourselves up. Don’t tell yourself you are stupid, less talented than others, held back by family circumstances, etc.

Instead, look at your positive points. We all have some... Tell yourself that you have specific talents, unique abilities, specific interests and the desire to accomplish some good things. Most people are capable of achieving much more than they give themselves credit for. Appreciate who you are and get enthusiastic about your possibilities.

Focus your enthusiasm with goals: Sit down and write your goals. Write why you want to achieve these goals and what steps you need to take to reach them. Set long-range goals, and then break these down into intermediate and short-term goals.

Then devise plans on what you must do to reach specific goals by specific dates. Don’t become overwhelmed by that big goal in the future.

Remember, “It’s hard by the yard, but it’s a cinch by the inch.” Concentrate every day upon doing the little things that will eventually help you accomplish the big things.

Do your homework: Each time I speak, I share the philosophy: “Motivation without education leads to frustration.” One of the worst things we can do is get psyched up and then not follow through with the training, education and determined effort we need in order to accomplish what we want to accomplish.

There is a big difference between just dreaming about doing something and actually putting in the time and effort to make it happen. If just thinking about something made dreams come true, then everyone would succeed. Knowing we are actually working toward something rather than just dreaming about it helps keep us motivated.

Bombard yourself with positive thoughts: If you do this consciously, the thoughts will eventually soak down into your subconscious mind and become a part of your very being. Everything we see or hear has an effect upon us. Positive books, tapes, note cards, posters and other reminders of what is good and positive are very valuable in getting and keeping motivated.

You are familiar with “ As a person thinks, so is this person.” But, importantly, a person`s thought depends upon what a person sees, hears and experiences daily.

Be responsible for your environment: We all become frustrated over situations in the world, nation and in our communities. However, even though you may not be able to change that world, you certainly can change your world.

To a large degree, you can choose people with whom you associate, what you see, what you read and what you hear. You can choose the activities in which you are involved. You can choose what you believe and why you believe it.

Don’t get caught up in doing something just because other people do it. A lot of people leave everything up to chance, and then blame the world for their problems and their lack of motivation.

<B>by Sandhyan Luchoomun Boygah</B>