Motivation—it’s a word that often appears simple but holds immense power. The journey to uncover and sustain it can be both challenging and rewarding. Motivation is the driving force of so much of what we’ve all created and maintained in our lives.
It’s always exciting when inspiration strikes, leading us to ponder what to blog or vlog about. Occasionally, the community converges on a common topic, igniting our passion to serve and connect. This synergy between inspiration and purpose is a gift that enriches our lives.
Motivation, however, is not always readily available. For those navigating self-employment, a lack of motivation can be a formidable adversary. Fortunately, a plethora of resources and techniques exist to help break free from this rut. There are hundred of videos, blog posts, and articles that exist to help you obtain (or maintain motivation), because, yes, it is that important.
But before you dive headlong into these strategies, consider this: Many of us recognize the problem and apply motivational solutions, only to find ourselves back where we began after a few weeks. Why? Because we often overlook the fundamental question: What is the root cause of our demotivation?
Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all, three-step process to uncovering the source of your motivation issues. We are beautifully unique individuals, and our motivations (or lack thereof) can stem from countless factors. However, you don’t have to take a shot in the dark and hope to fix it. Understanding this is crucial: Lacking motivation does not make you a bad worker, nor does it signify failure.
Every entrepreneur grapples with this challenge. If that weren’t the case, why would there be hundreds of motivational videos addressing it? These 6, 7, and 8-figure earners have walked the same path as you, wrestling with the struggle to get out of bed, remain focused, or sustain their drive because entrepreneurship is undeniably demanding.
Acknowledging where you stand, your readiness to confront it—despite the negative connotations—and your determination to persist in this journey is, in itself, significant work. It might feel daunting and uncomfortable, but with time, you’ll realize that the effort is always worthwhile.
Lacking Motivation? Understand Why and What to Do About It
Three primary categories often encompass the underlying causes of a lack of motivation:
1. Mental Health
When people think of “mental health,” they may envision chronic conditions such as depression, addiction, or anxiety. Seeking guidance from mental health professionals can be transformative if you struggle with any of these challenges. I highly recommend it, having experienced the benefits of regular mental health care.
While mental health disorders can undoubtedly affect motivation, they are not the sole culprits. Those not grappling with illness can still benefit from proactive mental health maintenance. Everyone may require consistent routines to eliminate the need to constantly decide what to do next. Regular “brain breaks” throughout the workday can also boost focus and motivation. Consider stepping outside, playing with pets, or engaging in brief stretching exercises. Experiment with these activities for several weeks to determine what works best for you.
2. Emotional Health
Emotional health is occasionally viewed as a taboo subject, but it shouldn’t be. Emotions are tools that help us identify inner misalignments. They neither define nor diminish us. Instead, they offer an opportunity to adapt for a more thriving life.
Entrepreneurs often grapple with emotional stress, given the immense discipline required for success. The isolation and pressure of managing every aspect of a business can leave you feeling lonely, stressed, and overwhelmed. Surrounding yourself with supportive friends who understand the entrepreneurial journey is crucial. Allocate time for friends, family, and connection to lower stress and gain a fresh perspective.
3. Physical Health
Before discussing physical health, consult your healthcare provider. Drastic dietary or lifestyle changes can sometimes do more harm than good, even with good intentions.
A physical body unwilling to cooperate can sap your motivation. Struggling to get out of bed in the morning may result from inadequate sleep. Difficulty focusing could stem from poor nutrition. Skipping breakfast due to time constraints can lead to energy crashes. Hormonal imbalances, often overlooked, can also play a significant role in motivation levels.
As someone who lived with undiagnosed hormonal imbalances for years, I mistook my lack of motivation as laziness. With additional vitamins, regular exercise, and dietary adjustments, my situation improved. While I haven’t solved all my problems, I’m always seeking ways to enhance my physical health.
Remember, this is a journey. As long as you keep moving forward, you are making progress. Rather than shaming or ignoring your lack of motivation, invest time in uncovering its roots. The process of seeking answers is character-building. So, embrace the journey to build character and know that you have the capacity to succeed. Good luck!
