How can I become more motivated to reach my goals, more focused to stick to a routine or my to-do list? I hear this a lot! 

We all know what we “should” do each day. We all have a long to-do list, but why can’t we get it done, or why do we procrastinate? Is it our motivation, our focus, or our lack of discipline?

 Are you inspired, or motivated? Inspiration is internal, feeling called to do it,  motivation is external. When you’re inspired, motivation comes naturally, no resistance, no forcing. We get mad at ourselves, and that inner negative self-talk kicks in to reinforce the feeling of not being good enough, being lazy or worthless. 

A different perspective. Maybe you aren’t supposed to do all the things on your list alone or within an unrealistic expectation for one person? It may be an opportunity to learn to speak up for yourself, set boundaries, and stand in your power. Look where you can prioritize and delegate. Maybe you need more experiences in your life before that big dream or project can be completed. 

For instance; an inspirational person may come into your life, or you find a new book or podcast that makes a difference in your life somehow. You may even have an experience. Often it’s the unexpected, life changing experiences that show us our true calling, where our heart truly is. This may open more doors, or give you much more information and helpful tools to get that project done, or help you to achieve that dream. 

Personal example; when I started in Hypnotherapy in 2010 I never was able to get a business going full time. I had felt like a dream was lost for many years, feeling disappointed in myself. Then so many things happened in my life that have helped to shape me into a much better Hypnotherapist. Including an opportunity (along with a full on deja vu experience) for more education and certification. 

Just something to consider, this may be why you’re not working on that project or making that dream come true as fast as you would like. There may be more going on in your favor than you realize 

Deadlines, schedules, routines. Some people work better without deadlines, schedules, or routines. There is nothing wrong with that. Throughout our lives,  from almost day one, we’re told that it’s time for this, and time for that…. We don’t all work best that way.  We have different times of day that we’re more productive than others. Some do much better on night shift jobs than day shift jobs. 

Why not do 3 days worth of that 10 day course when you feel excited to do it, rather than fall behind because you just don’t feel like doing it every day. Don’t kick yourself or give up, because you’re not doing it according to some timeline. (unless required to of course)

Society pushes us to believe routine and schedules keep us on track and moving forward. For many that is the case, and you may want to use fancy or fun color coded appointment books, or organizer apps. Add on your list, some fun things, or self care routines. 

For just as many others, it’s limiting for us. If you feel like or are more motivated creating or working or whatever it is, at 3 am, do it. Know yourself and what keeps you feeling good about the work or creative endeavours that you hope to achieve. Is the schedule helping, or keeping you feeling bad about yourself for not sticking to it? 

Of course we have things we absolutely have to do to live, and sometimes we have trouble staying motivated or focused. You may need to prioritize. The vacuuming can be done another day, the laundry may need to come first, the bills must be paid, etc. What can you do to make these tasks less daunting? Think out of the box, or out of your comfort zone even for some of it. Put things on auto pay, order your groceries to be delivered, ask for help without feeling guilty, and apologizing. 

What do you have no problem completing, or what on the to-do list do you love to do? Sometimes with tasks that need to be done, it’s helpful to tie it to something enjoyable, have some candy guilt free, or play some upbeat music during the task. How many of you love to clean while dancing around the house with the music blaring? 

Step back. Where you have trouble with motivation or focus, is where you need to step back and rethink. What are you resisting and why? Is there something from your past that keeps you in resistance to this? Take a good look within. Step back and ask yourself, why are you resisting these things? When did you think they were so important, did someone else tell you that, or put the responsibility on you? Were you called lazy or never felt validated for the work you completed? Were you criticized for your projects and interests in the past? 

Hypnotherapy is one way to help with releasing those blocks and obstacles that are holding you back. Limiting beliefs stuck deep down in your subconscious from long ago. 

What ways tips have you found helpful in staying focused, or motivated when procrastination takes over, or the job/project seems overwhelming? Feel free to leave a comment.

Please always feel free to reach out with any questions, or concerns. I love to hear from you all – what other ideas do you have for a future article? Are you interested in finding out if Hypnotherapy might help you? Contact me for a complimentary consultation. You can reach me at Pamela@HypnoBreakthrough.com or use the contact form on the homepage.

Please take care, Inside and out! Pamela Topjian