Tricking Myself into Motivation

One of my secrets to staying motivated is that I trick myself every day. My morning routine, daily schedule, and night routine are full of tricks designed to keep me on track.

Here are some examples:

  • I bought the easiest and best espresso and foam maker for my home, which helps me stop spending hundreds of dollars on cafés. When I wake up, I look forward to my favorite coffee and the satisfaction of saving money. It motivates me to get out of bed.
  • I promised my partner that we would go for a bike ride together every day. I know that sometimes my promises to others hold more weight than those I make to myself. This trick of accountability ensures I get out for a ride, which I love, even if I need a push to follow through.
  • I set a low bar for my night routine, agreeing that just one minute of stretching counts. By not overwhelming myself with high expectations, I trick myself into getting started. Once I’m on the mat, that one minute often turns into several, bringing enjoyment and great benefits.

Although I’m going through tough times, I genuinely like my life. With practice, I’ve learned to see both the good and the bad, and they always coexist. I don’t ignore the pain that comes with life’s challenges, but I don’t let it stop me from pursuing what I want. If I don’t create structures in my day, others will do it for me. By actively programming my day with activities that support my mind and body, I stay strong and more able to be myself in a world that’s already pre-programmed.

ACTION: Identify a simple trick that you can use to motivate yourself today. Whether it’s promising yourself a small reward for completing a task, making a commitment to someone else to hold you accountable, or setting an easy goal to build momentum, choose one and put it into action.

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