How to Boost Your Motivation at Work

The motivation is very elusive, right? Some days you will feel it, and some days you will not be able to grasp a miserable corner no matter how hard you try.

You look at the computer screen and want to write, create, and develop, only to find that you are just following the action and hardly caring about the work you are making. Needless to say, you are not fully inspired, nor do you know how to make yourself feel different.

Why is it important to have motivation at work?

It is important to stay motivated at work so that you can have the energy to complete the task. When your motivation is high, you are more likely to work towards your goals and complete tasks on time.

Your motivation also affects your colleagues, so when you feel energetic, they will do the same. This can improve employee morale and an overall positive working environment.

Motivated employees tend to be more satisfied with their work, feel invested in their work, and can complete their work effectively.

Why you have no motivation at work

When you feel unmotivated at work, it may be due to one or more of the following reasons:

• Your schedule is busy. When your to-do list overflows, getting everything done can be challenging. Instead of taking on all the tasks encountered, it is important to find a way to prioritize the work you need to accomplish.
• You need a better work-life balance. When you spend more time at work than in your personal life, you may feel job burnout. By establishing healthy boundaries between the two of you, you may feel more focused and active at work. It’s helpful to turn off job notifications immediately when you’re done.
• It is difficult for you to start. The idea of just starting a task may be more irresistible than actual execution. Remember, once you concentrate, your work will be very rewarding.
• Your body and mind need to be recharged. If you have been away from work for a while, you may need to plan your next break. This could be a week-long holiday or a long weekend to recharge.
• You are going through a life change. If life outside of work is stressful, it is difficult to stay focused during working hours. For example, things like moving house or getting married often require a lot of attention. If you find that your personal or family life is affecting your work, you may need to tell HR or your manager.
• You are ready to accept a new job. When your current job no longer poses a challenge to you, it may be time to start looking for a new job. With new tasks and responsibilities, you can regain interest in work.

How to increase your motivation at work

Try these steps to increase your motivation at work:

• Create a reward system
• Find a healthy morning routine
• Take a short break
• Spend a lot of time
• Look for external incentives
• Set work goals
• Solicit feedback

Create a reward system

Reward yourself for every task you complete. This is especially important when you are working towards long-term goals.

At each milestone in the goal, decide what your reward is. Build a reward system based on the things you like. For example, if you like to be active, your reward might be to take a break and go for a walk.

Similarly, if you like to socialize, your reward might be to spend a few minutes talking with colleagues. Match your rewards to the tasks you complete. Small tasks can get small rewards, and big tasks can get bigger rewards.

Find a healthy morning routine

When you feel awake and energetic, you may be more motivated. Starting a new day right is one way. Find a morning routine that includes healthy habits.

For example, doing yoga or running can wake up your mind and body. Similarly, eating a nutritious meal can keep you energetic throughout the day.

In addition to these healthy habits, be sure to get enough sleep and take time to relax after or before work every day.

Take short breaks

If you find that you are distracted at work, it may be time to take a break and recharge. Spend your rest time on things other than work.

You can spend some time chatting with colleagues, snacking, refilling water or going for a walk. Even standing and stretching can help your mind and body become more awake. By resting your brain for a while, you may feel ready to start the task at hand.

Give yourself enough time

Don't try to accomplish everything at once, but divide your day into different tasks. Realize that what to do in one day is realistic.

When planning your work week, prioritize the most important tasks and leave other tasks aside. If possible, spend time on less important tasks, but your first priority should be more pressing deadlines.

In this way, you may feel that you have a lot of time to handle your tasks. When planning the work to be done, remember to consider rest periods throughout the day.

Find external motivators

Sometimes your motivation comes from something outside of you. For example, motivational books, podcasts, and self-help articles can help you become more motivated.

Similarly, listening to cheerful music at work can enhance your energy and concentration. You might even want to build a friend system with colleagues to help each other stay motivated.

When you notice that the other's motivation may be higher, the two of you can share inspirational quotes or positive comments with each other.