Staying Motivated When Life Feels Like a Marathon
Hi Lovely Ladies,
Let’s start this week with a little confession. You might feel tempted to skip reading this email, especially when life feels like it’s piling on. You know those days when you’re running on fumes, wondering if you’re even making progress toward your goals? That could be you this week.
But here’s the thing: showing up matters. And if you’re feeling like you’re struggling to stay motivated, it’s okay. You’re not alone. Let’s talk about how you can keep going, even when the road feels endless.
Why Motivation Ebbs and Flows
Motivation isn’t some magical force that stays constant. It’s like the tide it comes and goes. Sometimes, you’re riding high on energy and excitement, and other times, even the smallest task feels monumental. That’s normal.
Motivation often fades not because you’re failing, but because you’re human. You get tired. You face setbacks. And sometimes, your goals feel so far away that it’s hard to see the point. But those moments? They’re when you need to dig deep and remind yourself why you started.
Here are some tips to help you stay motivated and keep moving forward.
- Reconnect with Your "Why"
Whenever you feel like giving up, go back to why you started in the first place. What’s the real reason you’re chasing your goal? Maybe it’s to create a better future for your family, to prove to yourself that you can do it, or to make a difference in the world.
Write your “why” down somewhere you’ll see it often. It could be a sticky note on your desk or a note on your phone. When you’re tempted to quit, glance at that little reminder, and it’s like a spark reignites inside you.
Your "why" is your anchor. Think of it as the foundation of your goal-setting journey. Whenever the wind gets rough and you’re tempted to drift off course, your "why" keeps you grounded. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to be honest. What truly matters to you?
- Break It Down Keep Track
Big goals can feel overwhelming. If your dream feels like climbing Everest, start by focusing on the next step, not the summit.
Ask yourself: What’s one small thing you can do today that moves you closer to your goal? Maybe it’s writing one email, going for a 10-minute walk, or reading one chapter of a book. Small wins add up over time, and they remind you that progress is happening, even if it’s slow.
Think about it: you wouldn’t try to eat an entire pizza in one bite, right? The same logic applies to your goals. Divide them into slices that you can tackle one at a time. When you focus on achievable milestones, the big picture feels less daunting.
- Celebrate Your Wins (Even the Tiny Ones)
Speaking of progress, don’t wait until you’ve reached the finish line to celebrate. Every step forward deserves recognition.
Reward yourself for finishing tough tasks, even in small ways. It could be treating yourself to your favorite coffee, enjoying a relaxing bath, or taking a moment to acknowledge your effort. What’s something you can celebrate today? Maybe it’s showing up for a workout, sticking to your budget, or simply getting out of bed on a hard day. Give yourself credit where it’s due.
Remember, success isn’t just about reaching the top of the mountain; it’s about every step you take to get there. These tiny celebrations fuel your spirit and remind you that the effort is worth it.
- Embrace the Messy Middle
Here’s the truth no one tells you: The journey to reaching your goals is rarely linear. There are detours, setbacks, and days when you feel like you’re moving backward.
If you’re having one of those messy days, remember that’s part of the process. Growth is messy. Progress isn’t perfect. And that’s okay.
If you’re in the messy middle right now, take a deep breath. You’re still moving forward, even if it doesn’t feel like it. Remember, the most inspiring stories often come from the people who pushed through the tough moments and kept going when it seemed impossible.
- Find Your Support Squad
You don’t have to do this alone. Surround yourself with people who lift you up and remind you of your potential. Whether it’s a friend, family member, mentor, or even an online community, having a support system makes all the difference.
Reach out to someone who can give you encouragement when you’re feeling stuck. Sometimes, a simple “you’ve got this” from someone who believes in you is all it takes to keep going. And don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Vulnerability is not a weakness; it’s a strength. By sharing your journey with others, you create connections that can inspire and uplift you.
Your support squad is more than just cheerleaders; they’re your safety net when things get tough. Lean on them during hard times, and let their belief in you reinforce your belief in yourself. Sometimes, the strength you need is just a conversation away.
- Take Care of Your Energy
Motivation is tied to energy, and you can’t pour from an empty cup. If you’re feeling burnt out, it’s a sign that you need to recharge.
Get enough sleep. Move your body. Fuel yourself with good food. And don’t underestimate the power of rest. Sometimes, stepping away for a little while is exactly what you need to come back stronger.
Your energy is like a battery; it needs regular charging. Incorporate self-care into your routine, whether it’s through meditation, a hobby, or spending time in nature. These moments of restoration make all the difference.
Taking care of your energy also means setting boundaries. Learn to say no to things that drain you and prioritize activities that replenish your spirit. It’s not selfish; it’s essential. The more you nurture your well-being, the better equipped you’ll be to tackle your goals with clarity and enthusiasm.
- Visualize Success
When the finish line feels far away, take a moment to close your eyes and imagine what it will feel like to achieve your goal. Picture yourself crossing that finish line, holding that diploma, or launching that business. Feel the pride, the joy, and the relief.
Visualization is powerful. It reminds your brain what you’re working toward and helps you stay focused when the going gets tough.
In addition to visualizing the end result, imagine the process as well. See yourself taking consistent, purposeful actions. This dual visualization helps bridge the gap between where you are now and where you want to be.
Visualization isn’t just about dreaming; it’s about believing. When you can see yourself succeeding, you’re more likely to take the steps needed to turn that vision into reality. Use this tool to keep your eyes on the prize, even when distractions arise.
Bonus Tip: Learn from Setbacks
Setbacks are inevitable, but they’re also opportunities to learn and grow. When something doesn’t go as planned, ask yourself: What can you take away from this experience? How can you adjust your approach moving forward?
This mindset shift transforms obstacles into stepping stones. Each setback becomes a part of your success story, making you stronger and more resilient.
You’re Stronger Than You Think
If you’re in a season where staying motivated feels hard, know this: You’re stronger than you think. You’ve made it through tough times before, and you’ll make it through this too. Keep showing up. Keep taking those small steps. You’ve got this.
I’m rooting for you, always.
Until next time, keep shining,
With gratitude and excitement for the journey ahead,
Sharon North Pohl 🌸🌟
