Can you name a few common distractions when you are trying to stay motivated?
I’ll provide you with some I have heard while working with clients.
Negative thinking
Negative comments from others
Reminders of past failures
Comparing self to others
Asking the wrong people for help
How many distractions did you list?
Would you believe me if I told you the number of distractions doesn’t really matter? What matters is the effect that even one of those distractions can have on you.
Staying motivated can be difficult when something keeps turning your attention in another direction. You can start out focused, encouraged, and determined, but one negative thought, one discouraging comment, or one reminder of a past disappointment can cause you to question whether you should keep going.
The goal isn’t to live a life without distractions. That probably isn’t realistic. The goal is to recognize what distracts you before it has the power to redirect you.
Sometimes staying motivated isn’t about finding more motivation. Sometimes it’s about learning how to protect the motivation you already have.
Be Inspired,
Dr. K