Productivity
Overcoming Demotivation:
The Psychology of Discipline
Motivation can be a fickle thing. Sometimes, we feel like we can conquer the world, while other times, we struggle just to get out of bed.
When we’re feeling demotivated, it can be challenging to muster the energy to do what’s necessary to move forward. However, by understanding the psychological factors that help us muster the discipline to get the job done, we can overcome feelings of demotivation and achieve our goals.
Clinical psychologist and professor of psychology Jordan Peterson offers valuable insights into how we can overcome feelings of demotivation and move forward towards our goals. Here are some of his tips:
Set clear goals: Having clear and specific goals provides direction and motivation. By breaking down larger goals into smaller, more manageable steps, we can create a roadmap for success.
Prioritise: When we’re feeling overwhelmed and demotivated, it can be helpful to prioritise our tasks and focus on the most important ones first. This helps us feel a sense of accomplishment and momentum, which can motivate us to keep going.
Take action: Even if we don’t feel motivated, taking action towards our goals can help us get out of a rut. Starting with small, manageable tasks can build momentum and increase motivation.
Celebrate progress: Celebrating progress, no matter how small, can be a powerful motivator. Recognizing our efforts and accomplishments can boost our confidence and help us stay motivated.
Visualise success: Visualisation is a powerful tool that can help us stay motivated and focused on our goals. By imagining ourselves achieving our goals and experiencing the benefits, we can create a sense of excitement and motivation.
Find inspiration: Surrounding ourselves with inspiring people, stories, and quotes can help us stay motivated and focused. Seeking out positive influences can help us stay motivated and remind us of the benefits of hard work and discipline.
Practice self-care: Taking care of our physical and mental health is essential for staying motivated and focused. Getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising regularly, and practicing relaxation techniques like meditation can help us stay energized and motivated.
By implementing these tips, we can overcome feelings of demotivation and move forward towards our goals. An example of this is the story of J.K. Rowling, who famously overcame numerous rejections before finally finding a publisher for her first Harry Potter book. Despite setbacks, she remained disciplined and committed to her goal of becoming a successful author, and her perseverance paid off.
In conclusion, understanding the psychological factors that help us muster the discipline to get the job done is key to achieving our goals, even when we’re feeling demotivated. With discipline and perseverance, we can accomplish anything we set our minds to.