Motivation …
It can be as elusive as the television remote. And, once found, it can all too easily slip away again. That’s why as a crazy-busy single mum, it’s essential to have a few instant inspiration-inducing ideas to hand.
What we need are motivational “hits”. Blasts of motivation with immediate effect. However tired, busy or stressed we are, we must conjure up motivation like magic, so we can enthusiastically focus on the task at hand.
Have you lost your go-getting attitude? Has your drive to succeed driven off?
Don’t despair.
Staying motivated isn't always easy. But these simple, yet effective tricks will have you enthused and energised, one goal at a time.
10 Tips to get motivated
1. Find your power pose
The first thing to do when your motivation levels are low – find your power pose. How does your body language make you feel? Are you supporting a ‘worn down’ look with your shoulders hunched and your head hung low? If so, it’s time to strike a power pose. Stand (or sit) proudly with your shoulders back and your head held high. Act like you mean business and the rest of you will follow suit.
2. Boost your motivation by eating chocolate (yay!)
Diet plays a huge part in how we feel. The foods we consume are our fuel. It's easier to get motivated when your tummy is full and happy. Food affects our mental performance, energy levels, and ability to focus. Pick The Brain suggests motivational munchies such as dark chocolate, blueberries, eggs, and nuts. So snack sensibly. Oh, and remember to drink plenty of water. You can't get motivated when you're dehydrated. Staying hydrated will make you feel awake, alert, and generally happier.
For information on energising health supplements see: Energy boosting secrets for tired mums.
3. Go green
You may be surprised to discover we are motivated by certain colours. According to Motivational Maps, green is the most motivational colour of all, with blue and red hot on its tail. Whenever I don't feel like finishing my tasks, I wear a bright colour. Just looking at the mirror already gets me motivated. You can try it, too! Incorporate some green into your day. Make a green smoothie. Take a walk in a green park. Or wear green clothes. Throw in some red and blue to create a motivational rainbow.
4. Take a power shower
If you are feeling sluggish, it’s extremely hard to feel motivated. Whatever time of the day, if you have a spare ten minutes, hop in the shower for an instant refresh. That short break will wash away your procrastination and negativity. Regroup, revamp, and emerge as a new woman. It can even help if you clean your teeth. The fresher you feel, the more likely you are to tackle your tasks.
5. Quick, write a list to stay on track
Lack of motivation can be caused by having too much to do. Single mums like to multi-task, yet it’s not always the way forward. If you find yourself doing bits of lots of tasks but never completing any, your motivation will nose-dive mode. Make a to-do list and work through it systematically. Each time you complete a task, cross it off. Doing this will help you achieve your goals in no time! Plus, you’ll get a great sense of achievement which will spur you on.
See the “You’ve Got This” Single Mum eCourse for more ideas around time-chunking and multi-tasking for the busy single mother.
Tips not to lose motivation
6. See it and believe it
It’s easy to lose sight of the reason why you’re doing a particular task. Overcome this obstacle by trying to visualise the end result. This can be as simple as imagining how gorgeous your house will look once you’ve cleaned it. Or imagine how gorgeous you will look (and feel) once you’ve been to the gym or completed your home workout. Keeping the end result in the forefront of your mind will help keep you motivated. And eliminate negative thoughts!
7. Extrinsic motivation
There are two types of motivation. Intrinsic motivation comes from within, and extrinsic motivation comes from outside. It comes in the form of rewards or bonuses. How do we get our kids to do things? We bribe them of course! And why do we do it? Because it works! And it works with us too. A reward drives us to make more efforts to finish our tasks.
Promise yourself a treat when you’ve finished a task. Not only will you get it done, but you’ll do it quicker. Just a coffee and biscuit when you’ve done the ironing is enough. You’ll become super-productive, and you most definitely deserve it.
8. Phone a friend
If self-motivation is failing you, bring a close friend or family member into the equation. Calling someone you trust can help whenever you're feeling depressed. Just make sure you choose someone encouraging and enthusiastic. Just voicing how you feel and getting good motivational advice is enough to get you off the starting block. Choose your motivator wisely though. Find motivation from positive people goes a long way. Don’t call the friend who will suggest you meet up for a drink and do your task later … however lovely they may be.
9. Play some tunes if you lack motivation
It’s a proven scientific fact that music makes us feel inspired and the power of sound can have a massive positive impact on your life. Whether it’s your typical power tracks or tunes that have motivational meaning to you, make sure they’re always on hand. Stick your headphones in and double your motivational drive in an instant. And feel free to sing and dance along, as a lack of physical movement can lead to procrastination. We don't want that!
10. Find a mantra to stay motivated
If you don’t have a mantra, now is the time to get one. If you can’t think of something original, here is a list of mantras I made earlier. Just a sentence or two that inspires you. Write it out and stick it on the fridge or screen-save it to your phone or computer. Repeat it under your breath or shout it from the rooftops. It may seem mad, but this simple action maximises your motivation.
Bonus tips when it's hard to be motivated
Avoid things that make you feel unmotivated (Bye negative motivation!)
Getting started on tasks can be tough, especially when you don't feel motivated. Lack of motivation doesn't only come from within, but it also comes from your surroundings. Avoid things that drain your energy, like negative people or cluttered spaces. Limit social media if it makes you feel inadequate. Set small, clear, and achievable goals when things get tough. Surround yourself with supportive friends who lift you up. Upon doing this, you'll feel more positive and you'll get things done quickly. After I eliminated all the negativity in my life, I was able to create a happier environment for my kids.
Have a routine to get motivated
Start your day with a simple plan. Wake up at the same time, have a healthy breakfast, and set small goals for the day. The purpose of a routine is to create a sense of control and achievement. Include some "me time" in your routine, even if it's just 10 minutes of quiet or a quick walk. Based on my experience, breaking tasks into smaller steps makes them more manageable. Doing so also makes it easier to get back on track.
Why is motivation important?
Motivation is important because it drives you to work towards your set goals despite life's challenges. It helps you wake up early, juggle work, and manage your kids' needs simultaneously. When you're not feeling motivated, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and exhausted. But when you stay motivated, you set a positive example for your kids. Motivation helps you tackle obstacles and reach your goals, whether you're trying to get a promotion, providing a better life for your family, or simply maintaining your well-being. It reminds you why you're striving so hard even when things don't go as planned. Staying motivated means constantly reminding yourself of your worth and the bright future you’re building for your children.
Summary: Ways to get motivated
Motivation is what drives us. And staying motivated may not always be easy, but it's entirely possible with the right approach. Remember, your motivation directly impacts your family's well-being. There may be times when feel like you're not getting anything done. But keep in mind that you don't always have to focus on your long-term goals. Start taking small steps toward achievable goals and celebrating each success. Seek support from other single mums or support groups. Sharing experiences can provide encouragement and help build your motivation and energy.
Whenever I need motivation, I practice positive self-talk. I focus on my strengths and achievements rather than my setbacks. Don't forget that your mental state matters most. So take it one day at a time. Each day is an opportunity to make progress. Following the tips above will help you maintain motivation to manage your responsibilities efficiently. You're doing an amazing job, and someday everything you want to achieve for you and your kids will be yours.
