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. 


You can do it!
Have a great day!
-Candice



12 comments

Marie said...

Like you, I think taking a break is really helpful. I sometimes just need to collect my thoughts and recharge!


***** Marie *****
allthingsmarie.com

Katrin said...

I can only agree! Thanks for this post!


landofcandycanes.blogspot.de

Kathy said...

I absolutely love this post! I definitely got my dose of motivation. Just what I need when all of my assignments and essays are fast approaching. And thanks for the wonderful playlist! I'll definitely check them out during my study breaks :D

Unknown said...

Hope all your papers and stuff get done and that you aren't stressed.

When used to get stressed in exam panic I used to go and buy a packet of crisps and a chocolate bar and go down by the river and eat them and just sit there for a while soaking in the calm and quiet--it worked wonders.

Janelle said...

Inspiring once more! Which i need for this dreary rainy day. Not sure if you follow my blog, but I'm going to send a present to one lucky follower :) come over and see!

Katie said...

picturing the end result is my favorite! I also have to remind myself to take busy times day by day or I get too overwhelmed!

Bev said...

This is great! I did a similar post, with only highlighting how important it is to REWARDING yourself!! The simplest things like watching tv, or taking my dogs for a walk are my rewards!!

Happy Tuesday!

Shelby said...

What a great post Candice, so motivating :)))
I'm so inspired by your blog here, Congratulations love!

Mimi said...

thanks for these tips! whenever i find it difficult to focus and be motivated, i like taking short breaks -- it really helps a lot! :)

<3, Mimi
http://whatmimiwrites.blogspot.com/
Poshlocket Giveaway: Win a Shelly Fabric Choker

Erin James said...

This is wonderful :) I wish I had read this while still in college :) But even with working and just living life, these are helpful tips (I am currently listening to classical music now!) AND taking a tea break :)

Candice said...

@Shelby Thank you!! xoxo

Diana Lupu said...

So going to refer back to this every time i need the reminder. thanks for sharing! :)

Back to Top