Motivation
Motivation is one of the most important aspects of getting work done. When we’re motivated, then our work can truly be enjoyable. When we’re not motivated, however, doing even the smallest tasks can seem impossible. Particularly in online or blended learning environments, motivation can be challenging. Fortunately, there are many tried-and-true strategies you can implement to get motivated again!
1. Manage Your Work-Life Balance
It might sound strange, but the best way to motivate yourself at work is to achieve a good work-life balance. Sometimes we think that productivity means working 24/7, but the reality is that this mindset can be incredibly demotivating. After all, why should you bother getting this essay done, if you just need to start the next one immediately afterwards?
Working constantly, without enjoying other aspects of your life, can lead to burnout and a lack of motivation. To avoid burnout, lean into other aspects of your life. Spend time with friends and family. Stay engaged with your hobbies, whether that’s baking, football, knitting, or board games. Do things that are important to you, like volunteering for a charity or working on a creative project.
Doing other things that matter to you, alongside your work, can actually give you the enthusiasm to get your work done more efficiently!
2. Establish Check-ins
A major cause of low motivation is loneliness and isolation. Particularly if you’re learning online or in a blended environment, it can be harder to get the support you need to keep going.
One way to get motivated is to check in with another person. This could be someone from your course, a family member, or a friend. They don’t need to be on the same programme or even know anything about your subject. They just need to be committed to supporting and encouraging you.
Check-ins can happen as often as you like and can be either virtual or in-person. Essentially, they’re just an opportunity for you to tell your chosen person about your goals and how you’ve progressed. Maybe you could text a family member every evening to let them know how many words you’ve written, or meet up with a friend each week for a joint study session. Whatever format you choose, having regular check-ins with a trusted person will help you stay motivated.
3. Consider the Why
If you’re struggling with motivation, it helps to consider why you’re working. Maybe you don’t enjoy revising for this exam, but you love your subject. Or maybe you don’t like this module, but completing your course will get you a better job.
To motivate ourselves, our work needs to mean something. When you just don’t want to work, it helps to take a step back and ask ourselves ‘why?’ Putting that assignment, reading, or exam within the big picture of your life can help you transform a task that feels pointless into one that’s important and meaningful.