Struggling to Stay Motivated? This One Word Can Make All the Difference

Everyone struggles with a lack of motivation from time to time.  You have something that needs to be done sooner or later.  You know it makes sense to get moving on it, so you can clear it out of the way.  Yet somehow, you just can't seem to get started on it.
 
When you find yourself in that situation, one word can change your perspective and make all the difference:  why.

Reminding yourself of the reason why you made the commitment to do something can have a huge impact on your outlook and motivation.

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Why do you want what you want?

We all want different things, based on our personal values and priorities.  Why do you want whatever it is that you want?  Why do you want to start exercising and getting more fit?  Why do you want to start eating better?  Why do you want to manage your time more effectively?  Are you thinking about:

• how you'll feel better about yourself?
  
• how you want more energy to enjoy life?
  
• how you want to maximize your quality of life as you age?
  
• how you want to spend less time stressed and frazzled?
  

Take the time to really think about the reasons why you wish to pursue a particular goal or path.  Do you think it will make you happier?  Provide you with a better quality of life?  Improve your relationships?  Improve your own self-esteem and sense of well-being?
 

Tuning in to the bigger picture

Getting in touch with the underlying "why" won't necessarily make things easy for you.  Changing old habits and adopting new ones takes some work and a concerted effort.  However, reminding yourself of the reason why you want something helps you look past the immediate discomfort, and helps you stay in tune with the bigger picture.  This, in turn, makes it easier to remain disciplined and motivated, since you're clear on what's driving you.
 
So the next time you find yourself struggling to stay motivated, reflect on the "why" behind your actions.  Visualize your end destination; think about the value it holds for you and how it will change your life, and let that compel you to push forward.