5 Ways to Stay Motivated

This is such a busy time as school begins to wind down, papers are due, celebrations of hard work must be planned, and all everyone wants to talk and think about is the promise of an upcoming summer. It can be difficult to stay motivated during this season when daydreams of sun-drenched beaches, palm trees swaying in the wind and crystal clear waters await. Here's a few things I've found to be helpful when trying to get motivated to write that last paper, study for a final or get that corner of my room finally organized!

1. Take a break from it all. This might sound counter-productive, but a quick change of scenery and situation gives your mind a little reprieve before you dive back into it. Go for a walk, read a few chapters of a book, take a quick coffee break...this will clear your mind and give you a bit of renewed energy to finish strong.

2. Listen to some music. Some people can work to music and others can't, but studies have shown that there are certain classical works that can actually increase your productivity! Read more here

Here's a quick playlist to get your started:

Rhapsody in Blue--George Gershwin

Violin Concerto #3--Mozart

Fur Elise--Beethoven

Dance of the Sugarplum Fairy--Tchaikovsky

Symphony #40--Mozart

Ave Maria--Bach

Rondeau--Mozart

Swan Lake--Tchaikovsky

Violin Concerto #5--Mozart

Reverie--Claude Debussy

3. Break things up. Sometimes that big deadline can be a little overwhelming. Make things manageable by breaking it up into smaller, incremental goals, so when you accomplish each one, not only are you experiencing success, you're that much closer to the end! Congrats!

4. Picture the end result. Imagine how relieved and happy you will be when it's all complete.

 Yes, this routine may seem monotonous, the papers--unending, and the stress may be overwhelming, but you'll be so happy when you're finished with it! Perhaps it's the last semester of school and summer (and graduation) awaits! Maybe it's a big assignment at work, but knowing that your boss will be very happy to see all of your excellent effort can be the catalyst to help you finish with excellence. Don't give up when you're so close to being done! 

5. Reward yourself. No one likes working hard without reason. After you've written that paper, finished a tough task, taken the exam you've been studying for or turned in the report, go treat yourself to something! A little reward goes a long way..it's encouraging, fun and beneficial to your wellbeing. Go ahead! You worked hard; you deserve it!

These are just a few things that I've found helpful when working towards a goal. Whether you're finishing a project at work, studying for exams, or working on a difficult task, know that you are able to work hard and accomplish what you've set out to do. 

(images via)

You can do it!

Have a great day!

-Candice