Motivation

Low motivation sucks.

Low motivation sucks.

We all struggle with this from time to time. In these moments of low energy, getting things done feels like an uphill battle; work doesn’t come naturally.

But those moments are contrasted with the days you wake up and just start (and you can’t stop), or the mornings you take a walk and listen to music that makes the sun shine so much brighter. Or the moments where you dance out of sheer happiness.

If you’re like me, you’d rather have only those highly motivated days and skip all the others.

I’m not sure if that’s possible (yet) – but there are a few things you can do.

Often, you can fix this situation by getting a hold on procrastination, changing your environment, or sleeping well (important one!), and by establishing a routine.

But if you’ve tried all of the above and the feeling of low motivation persists, what else can you do?

Maybe you need a break?

Maybe you aren't doing something truly interesting right now?

Maybe you expect that your current efforts are pointless?

In all those cases, the feeling of low motivation is pointing to something bigger than the activity itself. Working on your response to these questions might already redirect your efforts to something that restores your true motivation.

Let’s explore this in more detail. 👇

💡 Reflecting on Motivation

(Like always, you can download the Notion template of this issue of Grow Your Mind to take structured notes.)

What are you truly motivated about?

Why? When was the last time you felt this motivation? What is different about this activity than everything else?

What challenges do you currently face regarding motivation?

What can you respond to those challenges? What kind of support or accountability would be helpful? Could it be about something bigger than the activity itself?

What advice would you give yourself about staying motivated or building motivation?

How can you prepare for low motivation? Are there some personal strengths or qualities that help you stay motivated?

🙏 Thanks!

Thank you for being a part of Mental Garden. If you have any feedback, just reply – I read all of your emails.

I pick the topics for Mental Garden based on what I’m curious about or struggling with. Motivation is something I'm both extraordinarily curious about AND have find difficult. Over the past few weeks, I've attempted various strategies to boost my motivation, but they haven't been particularly effective. Currently, I'm experimenting with taking breaks and engaging in activities that feel effortless – which also includes writing these emails :)

See you in two weeks for the Retro and Planning!

With gratitude,
Marc 🌱

PS: If you know someone who could benefit from receiving Mental Garden, forward them this email or send them the link mental.garden/signup. Thanks!