Staying motivated isn’t easy, we all need help from time to time. Here are our tips on how to maintain momentum.
Ways to keep on track
Whether it's big or small, a variety of things can happen in our lives that throw us off our intended path. Here are some ways you can remain motivated:
Make your goal part of your routine by using a diary or app for reminders
Positive self-talk is important and effective in managing depression or anxiety - instead of saying ‘I can’t’, say ‘I can try’
Practice mindfulness to keep you relaxed and focused. Mindfulness is the ability to be fully present in the moment. You can find out more about it here
Start a class or join a support group. Support groups can be effective as professional help
Reward yourself when you have completed a step or goal
Regularly review your goals and progress. Seeing progress is a great motivator in itself, and also improves your self-esteem
Continue to set new goals. Think about what you want to achieve next week, next month and next year. Tackle one goal at a time so you don’t feel overwhelmed
Keep the momentum up. It takes up to three months to develop a new habit, so keeping the momentum and routine helps it feel more automatic over time
Find mentors - a mentor is someone who is experienced in the habit you want to change. Finding social or support groups with the same interest can help you find a mentor
Surround yourself with positive people. Positive friends and family enhance your positive self-talk, which also helps to manage the symptoms of depression and anxiety
Use exercise as one of your daily goals to improve your mental health
What to do if you lose motivation
Setbacks are normal, but developing resilience can help you carry on and pick up where you left off. Here are some tips to help you find your motivation again:
Review your goals and see if they are realistic in the timeframe you have set. You may need to break your goal down further into smaller and more achievable goals
Remember why you wanted to get motivated or reach that goal in the first place
Take motivation from others - feel inspired by reading a book, talking to your mentor or friends or family who have reached similar goals to the ones you have set
Sometimes you just need to take a break and start afresh
If you have any questions or need extra support, we're here to help you anytime in any language. Simply start a chat with us via the home screen of the Sonder app.
All content on Sonder's Help Centre is created and published for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional. Our nurses are available 24/7 to help you find the care you need.
Information about how to get motivated, originally published on HealthDirect