“The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.” – Thomas Edison

Whether you’re starting a business, trying to clean the house, or something in between, it can be hard to get motivated sometimes. Here are 10 tips to get you going, when you need that boost:

1. Keep a journal
Tracking your thoughts and feelings in writing is a good way to see patterns in your thoughts and behavior. It’s also a good way to record your positivity and inspiration on more energetic days. Then, you can have the advantage of looking back at your own words and use them as self-motivation.

2. Make a visualization board
Sometimes, to stay focused on the prize, you need to literally see the prize. Create a board with pictures that represent your goals and dreams. You can find things that symbolize intangible things, like love and family, as well as pictures of physical things you are working toward, like a new car.

3. Get into the community
Personal accountability and group interaction are important for staying motivated. Join an online forum, scour the paper or online boards for local networking groups, or find a group in social media that fits your niche. Connecting with other people, hearing their stories, and sharing your own will keep you motivated and help you make new friends!

4. Create a motivational playlist
Create a playlist of songs that inspire you or motivate you. They could be fast, upbeat songs that get you pumped up, or they could be lyrically/emotionally evocative. Whatever it is that makes you feel your best and makes you want to go out and DO your best!

5. Remember why you started
Keeping a clear focus from the beginning as to why you’re on a fitness plan, why you’re in college, or why you’re working two jobs to save up extra money is a good way to get out of a rut. Make it harder to quit by remembering why you started and focusing on the end result.

6. Talk to someone who is where you want to be
A successful person who has been there and done what you’re going through can be one of your greatest resources. Not only will you become rejuvenated in your own plans, but you might get some great tips on how to refocus your path a little.

7. Read inspirational stories or listen to a motivational speech
Getting motivated feels especially easy after hearing other people talk about success and determination. Reading a collection of inspirational quotes, listening to a motivational speaker online, or reading about bold success stories can really give you that powerful boost you need to jump back on your project or task.

“Expect problems and eat them for breakfast.” – Alfred A. Montapert

8. Start your own blog
Chronicle your journey online and interact with other bloggers to keep yourself accountable to your goal. Updating your blog will give you a greater sense of responsibility, both to your own plan and to your readers. Also, having someone admire you and give you accolades is a HUGE motivator!

9. Reward yourself!
It is much more enticing to do something difficult if you know you are going to get something pleasurable out of it. Of course, you have a long-term goal when you start a business or go back to school, but having a short-term prize is a great daily motivator, as well.

10. Attack it in sections
Break down your whole goal or plan into a list detailing where you want to be at the end of your journey. From there, list the major steps you need to make to get there, like hiring a realtor and packing up boxes to move. Finally, break down those steps into tasks you can approach each day or each week. You will feel a sense of success more frequently as you see your progress, which in turn, motivates you to keep going!

About Alex Blackwell

Alex Blackwell is a father, husband and writer. He writes about inspiring things at The BridgeMaker.
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