Top tips for rediscovering motivation

Whether you’re struggling to keep up with a hobby you once loved, finding it difficult to stay on track at work, or trying to get back into the swing of a regular exercise routine, we’ve got some top tips to help you rediscover your motivation.

Separate work from home life

One major cause of motivation loss in the past year has been the inability for us to separate our work and home lives. Makeshift workspaces on coffee tables and countertops have made it much harder for a clearer distinction to be made. If space allows at home, keeping work devices in a separate room can help create an environment where work can be completed, and you can then physically walk away and ‘shut the door’ on it at the end of the day.

Uncover things that ‘spark joy’

Although this phrase was coined by Marie Kondo when discussing how to best organise and declutter your living space, it’s a good mantra to follow in other areas of life too. We often get caught up in routines and patterns of activity that feel familiar but don’t serve us in the way they once did. For example, if you used to enjoy running but are struggling to find the motivation to pick it up again because it isn’t making you happy then don’t force yourself. Try experimenting with new exercises until you find something that sparks joy!

Stay connected

For many, increased motivation can come from social connections, and the enforced distance between people over the past year has made us all realise how much we rely on the support of our friends and family. Whether you arrange a weekly cocktail night with friends, start a book club or simply pick up the phone and reach out to a loved one for a catch up – the power of social interaction can be great to re-discover lost motivation.

Set yourself achievable goals

Thoughts of frustration and helplessness are natural during uncertain times and a great way to help cope with these feelings is to regularly accomplish a small goal. Whether you write down the goal or keep it in your mind, working through a personal ‘to do’ list will bring a sense of satisfaction and help you achieve bigger goals. Consider what changes would make you happier and more fulfilled and set regular and realistic targets. For example, if you want to upskill yourself to take a career change, put some time aside each week to complete online training courses, or if you want to improve your physical health then set reminders on your phone to go for a 30-minute walk every day.