How to Find Motivation on Days You Simply Do Not Feel Motivated: Motivational Ideas and Tips
- T Benton
- Feb 26
- 8 min read
Updated: Mar 31
We all have those days when motivation feels just out of reach as if it’s playing hide and seek with us. Whether it’s a sluggish morning or a habit of procrastination, losing motivation is a common challenge for everyone. The good news? Many practical ways exist to reignite that spark and move past the stagnation. Here are actionable ideas and tips to get you back on track and energized!
Photo courtesy of Ylanite Koppens
Embrace the Power of Small Wins
One of the most effective strategies to boost motivation is breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable goals. Completing these smaller tasks gives you a sense of accomplishment, uplifting your morale and inspiring you to keep going.
When faced with a big project, it can feel daunting. Focusing on smaller milestones provides a series of wins. For instance, I am currently writing a novel. There are days I just sit and stare at my computer screen. The task of writing more seems too big. I'm tired, I've barely had my coffee, and I'm simply not feeling it. But I've noticed if I just write a few sentences or think of something I'd like to change or add to my book I will start writing. From there I will often find the motivation to keep going. Sometimes you just have to start small and often that is a great starting point. Every small win not only builds momentum but also creates positive energy that empowers you to tackle larger tasks. The feeling of knowing you have accomplished something, be it big or small, is a fantastic motivator!
Consider setting a simple challenge, like tidying up your desk, doing a few quick stretches, or jotting down three things you're grateful for each day. Small, easy, quick. Enjoying these small victories can spark motivation for bigger projects, elevating your overall sense of achievement.
Establish a Routine
I cannot stress enough the importance of having a daily routine. Creating a consistent routine can significantly enhance motivation. Routines add structure to our lives, making it easier to tackle daily tasks without second-guessing ourselves. When you establish a routine, your brain learns to anticipate what’s next, reducing mental fatigue and enhancing focus.
Begin with a morning or evening ritual that resonates with you. This could be a mix of journal writing, meditation, or even a quick home workout. The important thing is to find what energizes you so that you feel prepared to conquer the day ahead.
For example, starting your day with 10 minutes of stretching and a healthy breakfast can help boost your mood and set a more positive tone for the day ahead.
Find Your Inspiration
Inspiration can come from countless sources, and it often significantly impacts our motivation. Seek motivational books, dynamic podcasts, or inspiring TED talks that resonate with you. (You can find some of those here: https://www.ted.com/topics/motivation) Engaging with uplifting content can foster a positive mindset.
For instance, books like "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen Covey and podcasts like "How I Built This" provide valuable insights and fresh perspectives. These resources can inspire you and help you rediscover your passion and drive.
Consider following motivational speakers or successful individuals on social media platforms. Their stories can remind you of your potential and motivate you to take the steps needed to reach your goals. See the links at the end of this article to help you find your inspiration.
Change Your Environment
An uninspiring or cluttered space can significantly affect your productivity and enthusiasm. Our surroundings make a world of difference in our mood, mindset, and motivation. Design the different areas of your home according to their function and your needs. Designing them so you enjoy them and feel inspired and motivated by them.
For example, if you work or create from home, create a home office space that is motivational and enjoyable. Take a moment to assess your surroundings. A clean and organized space boosts creativity and mental clarity. If working from home doesn't inspire you, consider moving to a local café or heading outdoors for fresh air. Even a simple change, like rearranging furniture, can stimulate your mind and freshen your outlook.
If you workout at home, design your workout space to motivate you to move daily. Using motivational photos, posters, and quotes within a space can motivate us. For example, a workout area, no matter how big or small, where you have your workout equipment such as workout mat, resistance bands, and hand weights neatly arranged and visible can both remind us of our commitment to improving our health and inspire us to follow through on that commitment.
Photo courtesy of Nataliya Valtkevich
Sometimes, a shift in scenery can make all the difference when motivation wanes. Sitting outside on your balcony, going to an area park, sitting in your backyard, or even sitting near a window can change your mindset and spark creativity and motivation. Jacob (2024) states, "Engaging in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or even a leisurely stroll can significantly increase your physical activity levels." So, being outdoors or viewing the outdoors may be just the change you need to increase your motivation and inspire you to be more creative.
Prioritize Self-Care
Self-care is crucial when you are not feeling motivated. It plays a vital role in rediscovering enthusiasm and energy. Prioritizing your mental, emotional, and physical health lays a strong foundation for motivation to develop.
Incorporate activities into your routine that nourish both your body and spirit. For example, schedule a long bath, practice deep breathing, or find a hobby that brings you joy. Even a simple walk can uplift your mood and recharge your batteries.
By nurturing yourself, you reinforce your well-being and create an atmosphere for motivation to thrive.
Connect with Others
Remember, you are not alone in your struggle for motivation! Connecting with others can provide valuable support and accountability. Sharing your goals with friends or family can foster community, making progress more achievable.
Join a local club or online community that aligns with your interests. Being around motivated individuals can reignite your energy and keep you moving forward.
For example, participating in a study group or a fitness class allows you to share experiences and success stories, resulting in a contagious enthusiasm that encourages you to strive for more.
Visualize Success
Visualization is a potent technique that many accomplished individuals use to achieve their dreams. "Visualization, also called mental imagery is essentially seeing with the mind’s eye or hearing with the mind’s ear." (Davis, 2023). By engaging your senses and imagining successfully reaching your goals, you'll create a powerful sense of determination that drives you to act. Then you know that it wasn't a matter of wish fulfillment. There was desire front and center that guided your thoughts and behaviors. Your neuronal pathways. Toward that desired, imagined, and fulfilled outcome.
Vision Boards
Vision boards have become a popular way to plan our success and increase motivation.
Vision boards are especially useful if we know the desired outcome of something, but the steps to achieving that outcome are unclear. As we post ideas, pictures, quotes, or anything that leads to the outcome, we can then arrange the various items and begin to see our plan for success.
Take time each day to visualize your aspirations. Picturing your desired outcome and the journey you must undertake can enhance your motivation and clarify the steps necessary to achieve your goals. This practice fuels motivation and helps solidify your commitment to the goals.
Learn to Manage Setbacks
Setbacks are inevitable, and learning to manage them effectively is essential for maintaining motivation. Instead of viewing setbacks as failures, try to see them as opportunities for growth. This shift in perspective helps you navigate tough times without losing sight of your goals.
When facing obstacles, reflect on what lessons you can take from the experience. You did not fail if you have learned a lesson to apply next time. This approach builds resilience and keeps you focused on your progress, even during challenging moments. Mistakes also help us to remain flexible, make changes, and try again. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day!
Learning from setbacks empowers you and guides your continued journey toward success.
Set Realistic Expectations
While it’s crucial to aim high, setting unrealistic expectations can often lead to disappointment. Recognize that progress may not always be consistent, and that’s perfectly okay!
Photo courtesy of Gerd Altmann
Set achievable goals that align with your current capabilities by implementing the S.M.A.R.T. goals technique when setting goals.
S.M.A.R.T. Goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Smart goals help us to create realistic, attainable goals focusing on the specifics of the goal, how we can measure success, ensuring we are developing ways to achieve the goal, keeping our focus on relevant choices to achieve said goal, and constructing a realistic time frame to achieve the goal.
We can even break down our Smart Goal into smaller Smart Goals, which will help us achieve our goal one victory at a time. Don't forget to celebrate the small victories, even when they feel minor. Acknowledging these milestones fosters a productive mindset. You will find more helpful information under the Links section at the end of this article.
Bringing It All Together
Photo courtesy of Bich Tran
We can put our failures and fears to rest each day and start again. Feeling unmotivated can sometimes feel like a heavy weight on your shoulders.
However, it's important to remember that motivation is not constant; it ebbs and flows, much like ocean tides.
By incorporating these practices into your everyday life and creating space for growth, you can reignite your passion and push past those challenging moments. Enjoy the journey and experiment to find what stirs your motivation!
Here's to your Good Health! ❤️
T. Benton
Owner & Writer @blissful-health.org
Copyright © 2025 Blissful-Health.org. All Rights Reserved.
Links for Motivation and Inspiration:
Resources:
Davis, T. (2023, November 20). How visualization can benefit your well-being. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/click-here-for-happiness/202308/how-visualization-can-benefit-your-well-being
Jacob. (2024, October 5). 7 reasons why nature makes you want to move more 🏃♀️ - Fitness & Nature. Fitness & NatureTM. https://www.fitnessandnature.com/why-does-nature-promote-physical-activity/
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