Things That Can Destroy Your Motivation

1. Not having goals. You can’t reach your goals if you don’t know what they are.

2. Choosing goals that don’t inspire you. You won’t be able to keep on going if the prize at the end doesn’t really matter to you.

3. Expecting immediate results. It takes time and effort to bring about a change. When you find yourself becoming impatient, focus on your project: what needs planning, and design? How can you distract yourself from your impatience while staying focused on your goals?

4. Lack of support. We all need someone to believe in us and to be our cheerleader when we start to feel discouraged. Find some non-judgemental support. This may be a group, a book, a website, or your therapist, but seek out a trustworthy cheerleader.

5. Not believing in yourself. As Henry Ford so wisely said: “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right.”

6. Feeling bored. Most success involves a lot of humdrum work, and repeatedly doing the same kind of stuff. Remind yourself when the going gets boring that each day brings you closer to achieving what you want.

7. Inaction and laziness. You have to work the plan before the plan will work … and dreams remain dreams until you turn your thoughts into actions. It’s crucially important that you manage your time well. Don’t allow yourself to get distracted or procrastinate.

8. Being around negative people. There are plenty of people who only see the flaws, and whose eyes focus only on the problems, and the absence of solutions. If you hang out with them, you will lose your zest and passion, and your positive outlook will soon be undermined.

9. Comparing yourself to others. As individuals, and we start from different places; we all face our challenges, and work at different rates. Remember “it’s your journey”. Be patient with yourself.

10. Encountering setbacks. No matter how great your plans, or your level of commitment, you’re bound to face some setbacks and encounter obstacles. That’s a normal part of growth. Endurance is key to getting past the setbacks.