When I first started my business, I was surprised that getting clients and making a decent income — the things I feared most — weren’t all that difficult. Instead, the thing that plagued me was actually pretty simple: finding the motivation to actually do the work I’d been given. It might sound ridiculous, but after chatting with enough freelancers, I can tell you this: it’s a common problem. Nowadays, I’m able to get A LOT more done (even when I totally don’t feel like it!). Today’s tips are lessons I learned over the past year (the hard way), which have drastically increased my productivity, motivation, and will to get shit done. Let’s do this.
Figure out what you’re afraid of.
When I first started out, I had a subconscious fear that my work was going to take a looooong time to finish. Someone wants a new blog design? BRB, see you in a year! I’d built up unreasonable fears about how long the work would take to do and in turn, pushed it off over and over again.
My solution? I wrote out how long I thought each item on my to-do list would take and then I timed myself! I was shocked (shocked!) when my estimates were often 2-3 times longer than the task actually took. It was incredibly motivating to see how quickly I was able to work. This simple activity helped me prioritize my days ever since. What’s really holding you back from doing your work? Fear of how long it will take? Too much pride about not being able to deliver something spectacular enough? The answer might reveal a whole lot!
Use the 20-Second Rule
Want to get shit done? Make it 20 seconds easier to do. In The Happiness Advantage, author Shawn Achor describes a simple strategy for developing better habits and doing things even when we don’t feel motivated. Achor says, “Lower the activation energy for habits you want to adopt, and raise it for habits you want to avoid. The more we can lower or even eliminate the activation energy for our desired actions, the more we enhance our ability to jump-start positive change.” So the next time you decide to skip the gym? Try laying out your workout gear the night before.
Are you enjoying this post? I created a free checklist to help you put these ideas into practice! Click the button below to get it instantly.
Cut yourself off from social media.
It’s no wonder we can’t get things done when we spend hours of everyday staring mindlessly at a screen that magically sends us funny pictures and updates from our friends. (If given the choice between work and text from dog, one will always choose text from dog). Make it easier on yourself and tune out of social media. Turn off notifications on your phone or go into Airplane mode. Set specific times that you’re allowed to check social media sites (and ONLY check at these times). I think you’ll find that when you hush the chatter of the online world, you’re able to get back into the groove of that pesky to-do list that’s been giving you side eyes since last week.
Recognize when you’re at the top of your game.
Dudes. I am pretty useless in the late afternoon. Awhile back, I used to start my day with emails, social media, and small, mindless tasks, which meant that I was doing The Big Stuff in the afternoon…when I was tired and not functioning at my best. Figure out when you feel and work your best and then do all of the things that take the most brain power during those times. Twitter can wait. Promise.
Create rewards.
I’ll be honest, rewards never worked for me, but I do know they work for other people. Tell yourself that once you finish X, you can have/do Y. Another alternative is to reward yourself with something (like a small piece of candy) whenever you knock an item off your to-do list.
Don’t forget to download your free checklist below to help you get shit done, like a boss.
Organize that hot mess of yours.
There is nothing less motivating to me than a completely messy desk. Luckily, this is a simple fix! Spend 15 minutes organizing your work area and cleaning up all that shiz of yours. When your work space is clear, your mind is clear.
Give up.
I thought we’d end on an inspirational note. 😉 But seriously, some days you’re just not going to feel it and pushing yourself to work when you absolutely CAN’T will probably only result in mediocre results and even more overwhelm. Play hooky for the day or a few hours. Relax. Take a freakin’ break. Try a few things from this list. I promise you’ll feel a whole lot better tomorrow, you little hustler you.
What are your tips for getting shit done when you don’t feel like it? Leave a comment below!
p.s. How to Get Things Done (A Pseudo Guest Post by My Dad) + 15 Ways to Be a Good Human Today
This is a great read, and it’s always reassuring to know I’m not the only person who goes through this and now I know how to get my shit done lol!
http://www.recalcitrantgirl.com
Seriously! For the longest time I thought I was just the only unmotivated person on the planet. It’s comforting to know it’s a universal feeling. 🙂
Love this article, can identify with every point and being in Australia, ‘getting shit done’ is a pretty familiar term 🙂
This is very helpful! I definitely always need to switch off from social media. I also find writing to-do lists keeps me somewhat motivated, crossing of the list is a good way to feel some accomplishment haha
http://www.lrnwrght.com/blog
haha it totally is! Sometimes I write down thing I already did JUST so I can cross them off. 😉
Ahhhh this post is speaking to my soul right now. What with juggling work, grad school, blogging and life in general, it’s been really hard to maintain a steady flow of energy and motivation to get work and errands done throughout the week. I will definitely be giving these tips a try. Thanks for sharing Melyssa 🙂
I SO know where you’re coming from, Setarra. Glad this post is speaking to you and good luck with everything on your very big plate! 🙂
It’s like you’re me! Except way more bubbly 😉 I always do my best work in the morning but do the exact same thing of pushing it to the afternoon where my brain is only capable of reading Text from Dog and making lists. And I too, often find it easier to GET work than to actually DO the work. Awesome advice.
haha well I’m glad we can relate on this, Anna! It’s nice to know I’m not the only person who feels like this sometimes!
I am going through this right. Currently in give up mode. About to go for a walk to clear my mind. Great post.
Sometimes deciding that you need a break is the BEST way to actually get more done later on. Good for you for making that decision!
I’ve been having such a hard time pushing through my to-do list this week — you posted this at just the right time 🙂 I know some of these work for me, but it’s good to have a reminder to actually, you know, do them.
And your point about rewards totally reminded me of this amazing comic (by Allie Brosh of Hyperbole and a Half): http://imgur.com/gallery/mVtXKZG
Haha me too, I know lots of tips, I just forget about them!
Isn’t it funny how much stuff our brain crams inside itself and then we forget is even there?
And that comment is so funny (and true)! Thanks for sharing!
Perfection. This is exactly what I needed today! Great advice.
WOO! Glad to help, Lee. 🙂
Thank you for sharing!
When I worked in education, we were taught that everyone is motivated, always. Our problem comes when we are motivated to do things that interfere with what we WANT. Like, I wish I had more freelance gigs, but I probably waste a lot of time relaxing cause I am motivated by comfort and nostalgia (as opposed to money).
Does that make sense? lol
Also, lately I’ve been thinking about when I am most productive (on top of my game), and it happens to be at night when all of my children are asleep (for obvious reasons). If I want to get a decent night’s sleep myself, however, that only leaves me with like 2 hours of productivity. Ha!
“Everyone is motivated, always.” –> Such a good point! I think you’re definitely right, it’s just about where we place our priorities. I find that pretty inspiring! Thanks for sharing, Vashelle!
Excellent tips, I definitely needed to see this! Creating rewards is my best motivator, although probably not the healthiest 😉
Tessa / Bramble & Thorn
Hey, whatever works, right? 😉
Thanks for these tips. I find it best to create a list or even occasionally when I remember to write down when I am going to do everything. For example:
10.00-10.20 – Clean bathroom
10.20-10.45 – Tidy room and hoover
I would do that for the day or all tasks I need to do and it seems to work.
As to your tip on avoiding social media I saw on another blog there is an app that blocks certain sites for you for certain amounts of time. I can find the name of it if want a look at it.
Amy at Amy & More
I’ve totally made timed lists like that, too! I kind of like doing those because then I can plan out my entire day. Good idea! And I’ve heard of those social media blocking apps, too! Have you used them?
Yeah I trialed a few, Though I ended up closing them because they were blocking sites when I didn’t want to too. My fault though, probably were using them wrong.
Ahhh I think that’s what I’d be scared of, too!
This is a great list. I’ve had a hard time working on my projects consistently too, so I compensate by working in short bursts and filling my breaks with something meaningful (e.g. not Facebook). I suck at rewards though lol. I find the distraction of wanting the reward too much to handle.
HAHA, love this list. 🙂 And I do agree with EVERYTHING. I am really horrible at keeping up with work stuff, even back when I wasn’t freelancing (3 years and counting…), but at the end of it, it really comes down to you having to motivate yourself. Whatever it takes!
Just what I needed to read – thanks! Its not always that I’m unmotivated, but I’m currently travelling so at the end of the day I just want to relax, not write and edit photos etc. The last few days I’ve definitely been using the ‘give up’ approach! haha
Haha give up! But so true. I’m having an afternoon off right now because I don’t want to write shitty articles that I’ll have to redo later anyways.
Sarah | More Than Adored
The first point is the huge thing for me to conquer at the moment. Fear. I think that’s natural in the early stages of a creative venture, fear of your work not meeting the mark, clients being unhappy with results (which hey, may well happen along the line somewhere). It’s tough being here but I’m slowly figuring out what my style (of photography) is and know that it’s a huge part of having happy clients: I I know what my style is, can deliver consistently and it’s evident in my work then they will know what to expect.
But the fear, I know will not go away for a long time and I think it’s a good thing, fear can be one of our greatest drivers for us to do our best work. Fear makes me prepare more to feel more confident and to know how a shoot will go. It makes me do more research, think more creatively and keep working. If we see it as a motivator it will motivate us!
Also, you sort of touch on time there, this is probably the next thing that stresses me. How long it takes to sort and edit shoots. And it varies. But I’m working on improving my workflow constantly and when I finally nail ‘my style’ I’ll create presets and actions to speed things up. For now I’m loving learning every aspect of this running a biz on my own lark, it’s the most amazing journey!
Ah. This serves as another reminder to move my butt in getting things done. I am with you on a less messy desk (my desk can NEVER be clean. EVER.) though, it really helps with motivating to do things. Of course, it does help when you have a furry sidekick to warm up those feet of yours. ;p
Very nice! And I agree that sometimes you should just give up and focus your energy elsewhere 😉
Regards from Anne,
http://www.thecopenhagendiary.com
Knowing when you’re at your peak is such a big deal, and something I’ve had a problem with being “normally” employed since October. Because your employer? He doesn’t care that you have a huge after-lunch slump when you’d just like to sleep and browse Buzzfeed. So maybe that one is more for the self-employed among us? I’ve still yet to find a way to be as productive as I normally am in those 1 1/2 hours after lunch where my eyes are drooping. Any ideas?
Urgh I am in total need of this! I may or may not have spent a couple of hours procrastinating in front of the tv this morning. Which is super bad cause I usually do more effective work in the morning….
I am the worst for finding other things to do instead of work. And, I constantly put things off that I think will take ages when they really don’t! Thanks for the tips!
These tips are super helpful! Thanks for sharing!
Oh my gosh…I clicked on this post because I saw it and thought “I NEED THAT”. I feel like I often bite off way more than I can chew, and then I spend so much time worrying about getting everything done that nothing actually gets done. It’s a vicious cycle! I may need to give up on a few things…sometimes you just can’t do it all!
~ Samantha
It doesn’t surprise me that you’re also an INFJ. We think the same, so much so that it’s a bit scary 😉
I find I’m most unmotivated when I’m between projects. I “reward” myself a little too much after I complete a big scary project by allowing myself to indulge in embarrassingly large amounts of TV time. I have to keep a low hum of work going lest I temporarily forget that I want to be working on stuff. However, the same mentality has made me forget to take lunch… sometimes I wish my brain weren’t so black and white!
This! I needed this today… more than you can imagine.
The first is so true about me. I’m not only afraid, I’m terrified. And yes, when I finally get myself to do the dreaded task and it takes five minutes instead of hours I’m completely stunned and just don’t understand why I put of that bloody thing when it was so quick and easy to get rid of.
For me, giving up social media is HARD. That’s the one I most need to work on. Cant. get. enough. Instagram.
I have to put my phone on the other side of the room sometimes so I wont be tempted to get on social media or start a pointless convo! I def feel you about being useless in the afternoon! After I take a little lunch break I might as well call it a day haha
I know exactly what youre on about, i always have problems doing my posts, homework and so on. Great tips easily laid out 🙂
I like the idea of timing myself… I do all the accounts for our cafe business, and I do enjoy doing it, ONCE I get started… I put it off and off, then realise I don’t need a whole day for a month’s updating, I just need a few hours! Love the getting shit done idea 🙂
I feel like I tend to drag out working on my blog posts. I’ll write some text, try to find the perfect image or create a simple graphic, then look for the perfect font to use… and before I know it, hours have passed by and I haven’t finished anything (and I don’t have the drive to finish it, either). I think I’ll try to write the text in the morning when I’m the most productive and work on graphics in the afternoon! Thanks, Melyssa. You always have the best advice.
http://www.mascarawarrior.com
I liked your first point about fear a lot. Especially with my own blogging, I feel that I often don’t even tackle tasks because I’m afraid that it’s all for nothing…which isn’t a very rosy way to think, I’m perfectly aware. It’s important to ignore fear and try anyway! Thanks for a little much-needed motivation today.
Xo,
Taylor
Acupoftay.com
I love ignoring social media, it just makes my life feel 100% better.
I love the fact you finished with giving up, sometimes when art and I aren’t getting on, it’s the best thing to just say “Nope”
I seriously needed this today! Thank you
Reinventing Neesha ♥
I can SO relate to the first one. I used to and still do this. I put off emails for this exact reason, and then when I open them and see there’s not much to them, I want to kick myself for putting it off!
I know my biggest problems are doing less relevant things in the morning when I work better and constant checking of my social media (especially instagram) even when I don’t lack motivation for work. The first thing is amazing tip, I know when I feel unmotivated to study it’s because I’m afraid of realisation of how I don’t know things or how much work I have to do, but it’s important to start.
http://isitfrench.blogspot.com/
Hi Mel:
Once again thank you so much for this helpful advice ♥!
Sometimes when I’m not motivated I relax myself and leave it aside until the night; that’s when I feel more motivated and inspired 🙂
Loved it!
http://www.missradiance.com
I do most of these things. I often work the later shift at work because I know I will get a lot of my stuff done during the morning. Lately I haven’t been feeling too productive in the morning.
Yes! I love this post, Melyssa. I’m a big fan of making lists, so I can’t wait to put myself up to this challenge. Cheers!
Great post! I”m looking forward to use your recommends!
Recognizing when you’re at the top of your game is so pivotal. I have a couple lulls during the day when my energy is low and my brain is sluggish. I tend to do eat lunch and catch up on blog reading during those times – things I enjoy but that don’t require the same intensity as my business projects often do. It’s helped my productivity by a lot!
Rewards work really well for me, too. I like to put my hard tasks that I’m not looking forward to in one column, and the tasks I’m looking forward to in another. For each hard task I complete, I get to do a task I’m looking forward to. It keeps me productive but also feels indulgent. This is a great list!
I need to print this and post it on my wall because I feel unmotivated almost all the time… I know its a bad thing! >.<
URg, thanks for this. I can really just sit and dread something for longer than it would actually take to do it. Pinning this!
Mel,
These tips are really helpful, I really appreciate them. I think I have irrational fears too… I’m afraid I’ll get buried with work and not be able to handle it all. So I don’t market my freelancing business as much as I could/should. Maybe now I’ll reinvigorate my efforts!
The activation energy thing is really interesting, I hadn’t heard of that before, but it makes a ton of sense. Thanks for the tip! P.S. I mentioned your awesomeness over on the International Bloggers Association’s blog the other day. Just wanted to make sure you knew. =)
Brittany
This was so so so helpful, I really enjoyed reading these tips and will definitely try implementing them.
http://www.wisechameleon.com
This is what I needed. Thanks 🙂
I was attracted to post because you used the word “shit.” I am glad to see another girl talk for real.
I like to set timers for myself and work really diligently while the timer is on and it always amazes me how much I can get done when I get rid of distractions and focus! (Knowing there is an end in sight always makes it easier!)
Emily
Dimplesofdixie.com
Oh, I like this blog…… I work full time, and I’m an artist in my “spare time” and by the time I paint I am totally, utterly and completely unmotivated to do anything like promote myself, marketing etc., to actually have people see the work. So the unmotivated side goes many ways…….
Ha! You’re great!
Like Cathy, I was also attracted to this post because of the word “shit”. It’s so refreshing to hear a girl talk real about what it’s like to be a self-motivated human. Love the post and have been feeling really unmotivated with my blog this week so it’s exactly what I needed! Great tips that I’ll definitely use. Another thing that works for me is making a to do list. Checking things off gives me so much rewarding satisfaction and sometimes I’ll even add things I already did earlier in the day to give myself a little boost. Ha! 🙂
http://www.pintucksandpeonies.com
Find your title quite offensive! New to this blog and it may well be the last time! If you can’t express yourself without using offensive language, then perhaps you should take an English course before proceeding!
Women want to be “equal” with men so much that they now believe they must adopt the language that men use when in ‘men discussions’!???
Disappointed. Shame on you. Others have said they find it ‘refreshing’ that you feel free to speak this way….I find it offensive and disappointing that you feel you have to lower yourself to this.
I found it quite refreshing, It popped up in my bloglovin emails on what people have been loving and its BECAUSE of the title I clicked it because hell, when we think about it, we all want to get our shit done right?!. You might not call it shit, but I can assure you litlbits14 you wanna get it done just as much as we do 🙂 The beauty of an opinion is that there is no right or wrong. It’s an opinion, it’s yours and nobody can argue with you about it for feeling that way, What sucks is that just because of your distaste for the word shit you somehow think she needs an English course? Then Feminism got brought into it and it ended with her ” lowering her self ” to such levels. That all seems a bit harsh, over the word shit. Regardless, Even if you don’t call it shit, I hope you were able to see past the word and take note of some of her kickass points.
PS Hope ass doesn’t offend you either, If it did, fuck it. Sorry 🙂 x
Don’t worry; you are just as offensive.
F*****ck it!!!!! FFFFUUUU*****KKKKK IIIIIITTTTT….Get over yourself!
I agree with you, basically it’s the same as deciding what is appropriate TV viewing for your kids and getting on your high horse when you think it’s offensive viewing. You have the power to ‘change the channel’ or ‘turn off the TV”. Nothing gets up my nose more than someone reading a post and then instead of saying ‘hell yeah, I can so identify with what Mel is saying’, the wowsers have to take offence at the word ‘shit’. Holy crap ladies, if you don’t like the word then move along….
Would every one just stop getting offended?! The word wasn’t directed specifically to you who cares if you’re offended? If you’re going to be offended at least let it be by something important.
Please don’t feel that you have to point out what should bother others, perhaps it does not bother you. They have a right to their opinions, too.
Agreed wholeheartedly. People who have to use bad language to make a point are not that intelligent.
Nothing worse than someone who ruins a fantastic blog piece by judging the author or fellow commenters without knowing these people. You clearly think that every hilariously irreverent comedian in the world is unintelligent then because they don’t hold back in the swearing department when they are relaying a funny or meaningful story to their audiences.
True. You are right. And, it is okay to judge what is good for me. No one judged them to go to hell, so relax.
It’s totally valid for you to eschew vulgarity in speech or writing, but it’s silly to assume this writer is slumming or degrading herself. If you travel around the blog-osphere a bit more, you’ll discover that casual swearing is comfortable and normal for bloggers of both sexes.
What’s considered acceptable speech changes over time! You’ve got every right to avoid the blogs of cussin’ gals, but shaming them for not adhering to Victorian standards of “lady-like” speech is just way, way, WAY out of date.
Im a 53 year old christian woman, (some might think victorian), and I will admit that I almost past this post up because of th title. But, the rest of the title intrigued me. And, after reading it, and getting tons of great advice. I’ve changed my mind. I admit, sometimes the stuff that needs to be done can appropriately be described as shit . I enjoyed the article will read more of your posts.
Funny story. I have 12 homework assignments to finish tonight. They average about 15 minutes each but how daunting. I had 7 Blog post I wanted to read today, yours being the first, and so I decided for every 2 assignment completed I would read 2 blogs and end with 3. Here one of your suggestions was to do just that. Another of your suggestions was to see really how long it takes to do what you want to get done. I did that before I even started, hence how I know the assignments take 15 minutes. So you have proof, beyond yourself that your suggestions are darn good ones that work. Smile!
Love you…love this! Thank you bloglovin for helping me find you 🙂
First time here because Bloglovin posted you as a fave of the day, and I’m so glad they did! I loved this post and it came at the perfect time. I was pouting around all day about the shit I didn’t want to do, now I’m off to do a heap of it and give up on the rest. Can’t wait to read more!
This is an offensive post indeed. Who says women are liberated and “with it” because they use foul language? It got my attention alright; for the wrong reasons.
Lindsay, me too! Currently trying to write a resume, finish my laundry, pack for a business trip, and lose five pounds. And was just lamenting my complete lack of motivation to work on any of those things when this post popped up from bloglovin’. Excellent timing. Thank you, Melyssa! And, I like the title. Very much. It’s the reason I’m here.
Loved this! The 20 second rule is genius and a great way to get yourself going. Social media can be a time suck so I find scheduling time to intentionally be on it rather than being ‘always on’ is far more conducive to productivity!
This is a topic I’ve been really curious about lately – – especially as I strive to work smarter, not harder. Rewards and organizing my workspace are helpful for me, too. I’ve also been using the 30/30 app. lately which gives me timers for my different tasks each day. I like trying to beat the clock (since I’m the opposite as you and tend to under-estimate how long something will take). Lately, I’ve also been getting out of my pjs faster and into “work” clothes (jeans and a nice top). Even though I work from home, I find that actually putting forth an effort with my appearance makes me more productive!
i find it hard to do the ‘non-work’ part of my job: billing, record keeping, dunning clients for money. ironic, or perhaps not, that money managing/handling is my work. my psychological problem is that i get paid to do it for other people; i do not get paid to do it for myself.
This is something I really needed to read right now. Thanks for the awesome and real tips, and thanks to bloglovin for delivering this in my email. The word, shit, isn’t what caught my attention to read your post…it was the whole title and how it matches with how I’m feeling at the moment. Besides…I say shit all the time. 😉 Thanks again!
I like the content, but not impressed with the language!
I agree, having a clean organized work environment helps. I also use a daily and weekly checklist to stay on task. As a social media manager for multiple clients it’s easy to get distracted on social media. I have to stay on task or everything will take five times as long as it should have.
Oh the irony that I’m reading this rather than working!!
The title absolutely captured me 😀
Thanks so much for this! I work from home so this has really helped me.
Amie @ dimplebug.com
xxx
Loved this post. All really good advice too. I am going to take a look into The Happiness Advantage now. Thanks, lady!
rae of love from berlin
such a great post…thanks for sharing. I can so relate!!
Thanks, those are all great! I like the reward thing- I go outside to reward myself and walk or something. I also take time to stop and do something great or spend time with someone great or listen to a friend who needs to talk whenever it needs to happen. I’m so lucky to be able to work from home with my husband and there’s no reason for me to not enjoy the perks -I’m a pretty great boss to myself 😉 I find that if I don’t use those opportunities I feel guilty about it and my work suffers anyways.
I found your blog through Bloglovin, and I’m in love with it. You give so much good advices, keep going =D
Great tips, I was already using some of them and I’ll surely follow the others 😉
http://justsem.wordpress.com/
Thanks so much for this, just the sort of kick-in-the-pants advise I need. (And I would rate getting needlessly excited and offended about one word instead of actually taking on board the excellent advice is another form of procrastination!)
I made a similar post on my blog this week. Getting it done is always at the top of my list!
I talk about motivation, inspiration, and balancing it all as a freelancer in my e-course. This is a great article! Thanks! For more check out my e-course: http://shoptalk.lollipopscards.com
Social Media can be so annoying, you think you just have a short link on facebook if you have been imporant and you ending up spending minutes looking at cute cat pictures -.-
But I like the list! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Excellent post – good advice and well written!
exactly
Love this post!
I love the “top of your game” tip. I am doing it all wrong! I am useless late afternoon too- but I do the exact same thing you used to do. Email, social media, submitting to link sites, etc., first thing- when I should be focusing on design and writing! Great list all together. Glad I found your blog! Love your designs.
Great post! The last one really resonated with me. Once upon a time I would push myself to write, even if I really wasn’t feeling it. I finally realized that all that time I spent forcing myself to write on days when it was like pulling teeth just to get a sentence on the computer screen in two hours was actually doing more harm than good. It was so hard that I’d dread writing the next time and I didn’t feel good about my writing after. Now I know what to look for when it’s really not going to help me and I just turn off my computer those days. I’m always rejuvenated and ready to write the next day.
great points
Yes.. yes!! This is what I needed! I will start with the last point for today.
http://www.gingersnapsxoxo.com
I love this and TOTALLY had to save it! Thanks for the awesome post!
Thanks for this great article! I started my week with the last point, due to a stupid, nagging migraine – but now I don’t feel bad about it.
The rewarding myself works very good for me. I often tell myself: Once you’ve finished this article, you go and make yourself a cup of coffee. It helps me focussing again because I know the end is near and so is the coffee.
This is exactly what i need, going into exam week with absolutely zero motivation to study. I’m laying out my books to hit the library…gotta catch them ZZZs. goodnight world.
Great advice and at a perfect time right now, not feeling motivated but pretty sure getting stuff done will help! Thanks
oh my god-we are about to write 5 new articles on areas we are incredibly passionate about…but have been looking at the list for about 40 days now! 🙁
Will definitely use this advice and hopefully we can share some of our creative work in writing!
(Good job we dont put off when we are craftigng with our hands!)
Homesteadrange
I sometimes find that I put off starting to write because I don’t feel like the effort of writing properly or I don’t think I’ll do a great job right then. What I’ve realised though, is that once I get started, however haphazardly and rough, I end up getting into it as I go along and I end up going back to edit the rough beginning bits as I get more into the right head-space. All it takes is starting- after about twenty minutes your brain is plugged in.
Found you on Bloglovin’, these are great tips! My favorite is “Figure out what you’re afraid of.” I read something recently about teaching children with anxiety to be “thought detectives” – basically the same as you explain here: examining and dispelling self-sabotaging fears. Thanks for this great article, I’ll be sharing this one for sure.
Love these tips! I have another one to add, about home design…
Feeling unmotivated to decorate a room? Try these statement peices! >>
http://whichit.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/re-worked-furniture.html
Great tips! The social media tips is so true. (I mean, come on, I am meant to be studying right now, but I am here instead!). x
poundingyounghearts.blogspot.com.au
Seriously going to try some of this out! Especially the desk part. I don’t even sit at my desk in the study. I sit at my husbands. Mine is buried and I hate it!
My desk is normally an absolute tip so I am definitely going to be getting myself tidied up in order to become more productive! Such a helpful list, thank you for sharing!
http://www.noomiiesworld.blogspot.co.uk
That first idea is actually the best idea I’ve ever heard. You’re right, shit probably takes significantly less time than I think it does – ESPECIALLY with all the distractions in there. I’m going to remember this.
Glad you like that one, Chrystina! That was a serious game changer for me!
The Give up idea is amazing. I often forget that I don´t always have to be productive. So feeling unproductive might just be a sign from my body that I should relax.
I totally agree, Lina! Sometimes I force myself to keep going because I think I “should,” but I’ve realized that taking a break can be just as effective.
Thank you for those tips. I’ve been strugling with productivity for a long time (well, actually forever) and in different areas of my life. What helps me get over the feeling of overwhelm is making a list of what to do. I would put off sewing a skirt for ages. But when I write down every little step, cut and seam, I realize that it’s not nearly as much as I thought. (A little like your time estimation trick)
Your tip to ask yourself what you’re afraid of is really interesting. I will try doing that. And then I will finally get my own blog on its way. Bam!
Love that, Sophie! Writing down each step is a great idea. I think you’re right. It all goes back to us making things seem more difficult than they actually are. 🙂
The 20 second rule is AMAZING. I always stop myself from getting started because I don’t know where to, so doing 30 seconds of planning the night before makes it so much easier to get into the project the next day. Thanks for the great tips!
WOO! Glad you liked it, Kat 🙂
I feel ya on the being useless in the afternoon thing. I’ve started doing my most creative/critical thinking work in the mornings, and I’m so much more productive now!
That is awesome to hear, Catherine! 🙂
Instead of a small piece of candy? how bouta big penis? 😉
ummmmmmmmmmmmmm……………
Loved reading this! and agree with the all of the above 100%
Glad you liked it! Thanks for stopping by 🙂
This popped up in the Recommended for you box in the lower R hand corner of your blog exactly when I needed it to. Does your blog have ESP or something? 😉 Thanks for this! I needed it and now I feel like I can ACTUALLY meet this deadline I’m currently up against!
Woohoo! So glad to help, Chelsea. 🙂 My blog does occasionally have ESP. 😉
Great article! I definitely get tired mid-afternoon during the day job. This was a great gentle reminder how we should flow with our personal rhythms instead of against them. Changing my habits and flip-flopping my workflow – creative work first thing in the morning then emails in the afternoon. I’ll see how it goes 🙂 Thanks!
That sounds like a GREAT way to handle things, Lily. I once adopted a very similar approach and it helped immensely! Something else I did was, the night before, I would write out my main to do list for the next morning. That way, I knew what to get started on right away so that I didn’t have to look at my inbox and get sidetracked. 🙂
I started doing that this week! I’m testing out different methods including writing my list before bed. Keeping my to-do list that fits on a post-it has certainly increased my productivity levels 🙂
I really needed to read this today. I am working on my book right now & lately it has been tough. Even blogging—which usually comes easily to me—seems like a chore. This helped ease my mind knowing I’m not alone when it comes to being in a slump. Thanks for the tips!
Xx
Charlotte’s Little Web
You are so not alone, Charlotte! Isn’t it bizarre when things that normally come easy to us begin to feel like a chore? That’s when I know I need to take a break. Best of luck to you! 🙂
Oh my stinking word. This is so great. And thanks for helping me waste my evening giggling about texts from dog. Fabulous. Also, I think about whatever is distracting me from the task at hand, (cleaning my house) set a timer for 10 minutes, knock out whatever you can then get to work. Love your work, thanks, girl!
Ahh so glad you enjoyed this! And isn’t Texts From Dog awesome?! hah! I love your timer idea — will definitely need to try that!
This is SO GOOD. I always swear to myself that I’ll nix the social media for a few hours to really work as focused as possible, but it never happens. I need to seriously build self control and avoid those notification icons like the plague!
cominguprosestheblog.com
Thank you Erica! And gahh I can totally relate! Once you take social media out of the equation, work becomes a whole lot easier. 😉
This is a classic! And so well written.
true.
I loved this article. I highlighted it on my blog on my “Things I Read” page http://www.allthethingsido.com/things-to-read-how-to-get-shit-done-even-when-youre-totally-unmotivated/
I enjoyed “The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield that addresses this topic. Not planning time to relax or enjoy “free creative time” really gets me in the funk. Hence, my commenting on this article 😉
Ohh I should check that one out! Clever title. 😉
A way to very Easy with thenectarcollective < my classmate's step-aunt makes $72 hourly on the laptop . She has been fired for 7 months but last month her payment was $17104 just working on the laptop for a few hours..
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and it was easy to read so I didn’t put off finishing the book. However, I need to read it again as I am reading about procrastination when I should be just finishing my task again!!
Great post! However, I don’t really understand the 20 second rule. Does it mean that if you what to adapt a new habit or work on a project, you can start with something easier that will take only 20 seconds?
Also, what would you do if nothing goes right in the day? You really want to work and get things done, but the computer is working slow, the phone is running out of battery, and you can’t find a spot in Starbucks, etc.
★ meilijourney.blogspot.com ★
Hi Vanessa! The 20-second rule is a little different than what you described. What it means is that if you have a big task you want to do, like writing a blog post or going to the gym, then you should make it slightly easier for you to start it. For example, making a quick blog post outline or putting your gym shoes out the night before. The idea is that if the task has already been started (even if all you did was put out your shoes the night before) then it will feel easier to do and you’ll have more motivation to complete it. 🙂
As for nothing going right…I’d say just not to lose your cool and to find the things that ARE going right in your day (like what you were able to accomplish before your computer started to die) and if you need a break, take one. 🙂
When am low in motivation, I read a lot of other blogs, I clean my house and also watch some motivational videos. Another idea is to chalk out topics for possible blog ideas, a simple scribbling on a note pad would help you in the long run when you are in search for new blog ideas.
That’s a great idea! Often times, it just takes that first little step to get going, right?!
i don’t know if I should be suggesting this, but I sleep. And yes it does help to forget everything, take a power nap, so I wake up with a fresh mind!
In my case, it helps me channelize more as I erase my bad mood and start off afresh, giving me enough energy to deal with the things ahead 🙂
I agree, better to rest
great post
The last one is the best suggestion. I learned this long ago. If I am not feeling it I shouldn’t push something to completion. Normally a short break or starting it up again the next day makes for better results and faster work.
Totally, totally agree, Emily. 🙂
The reward idea I have done a couple of times. I mostly like setting a timer. I’m a little bit competitive, so setting a timer for 20 mins and then going to (say) the kitchen and clean whatever I can in that time is highly motivational for me. Also, having company over. That’s a sure fire way to get all the major area’s of my house clean and then it ends with the reward of having a relaxing fun night with friends. Also, strangely enough putting shoes on.
Haha, my home is the cleanest when people are coming over too 😉 I feel you, Robyn! Great idea competing with yourself. It really is such a huge relief to get all that stuff done and just chill out after!
such great tips. knowing the time in the day that you’re most productive is key, i know i’m much more of a morning person! i definitely fall into the social media trap working on computers all day, scheduling some time in might make a difference so i’ll be trying that next week! x
http://www.thedressdiaries.co.uk
Absolutely! I’m glad you feel the same way, Leanne! I hope scheduling a bit helps you out too 🙂
hey there, I realloy enjoied the solutions you came up with. I am going gove the 20 sec rule a try myself. I wrote a similar article, please have a look as I would appreciate to link it to yours. Thank you, Andra Miclaus http://www.andramiclaus.com/how-to-tackle-9-demotivating-factors/
Thank you for sharing your post with us, Andra! Glad you found this helpful as well 🙂
I am all about the pomodoro method at work– that always helps me! There are several really good apps that can help/schedule/time but I like the 25 min increment the most. It also helps you remember to get up and stretch and walk around if you are sitting all day!! For working out, the putting on my work out clothes always help. I tell myself, just put on the clothes and then you don’t have to go if you don’t want but it always works!!
Ha, I know what you mean. Just getting the clothes on can be a big feat!
Mel, thanks for the tips. Some things of the list, I already do, helped me a little bit. This other stuff, I’ll practice. Thank you!
That’s great to hear Carol!
Such a good read. 🙂 The only social media on my phone is Instagram. Ive practically eliminated Facebook from my life, its sucks you in like a vortex! ha ha.
Sometimes I just take the time off and be a ‘slacker’, you cant force the work, thats so true. I also take a nap like a commenter said sometimes. LOL.
What really works for me is do a bit of work, then maybe get up and do the dishes, etc, like 10-20 minute household tasks then back to work for a bit, rinse and repeat. Its like that household task is complete and it feels good its done so it gives a boost to get back to work.
It totally sucks you into a vortex!
Naps are amazing and refreshing! That’s really good that you’ve found what boosted you!
It totally sucks you into a vortex!
Naps are amazing and refreshing! That’s really good that you’ve found what boosted you!
I get sleepy after I whack off. I need to stop doing it so much at work.
Wow awesome tips! #1 is the best…why do I keep starting projects and never finishing them only to start even more…fear that it will take too long…sigh*
Yes, it can be hard, especially for creative people!
Motivation is lacking often when there seems like there is so much to do that it is overwhelming. Making a list and crossing things off as you go through it is a great help, and when you don’t accomplish everything, at least you know where you left off.
That is so true! The sheet amount of things that you need to get done is enough to keep you down!
That is so true! The sheer amount of things that you need to get done is enough to keep you down. Motivation is tough – which is why you need dedication too.
I love these tips! I rarely run out of motivation…but certain tasks do get put off from time to time. And I love how you added the last one. Sometimes when I know something isn’t going to be my best work, I just have to walk away from it for a bit.
Well said! So glad you love the tips. Thanks Ashley! 🙂
pussy smells like dog shit. i prefer a hot dick
I think it’s important to recognize that some days (and times of day) will be better than others. I had a job once where I would occasionally declare a “low-hanging fruit” day. That day I would focus on the simple things, be happy with that, and then come back the next day ready for more strenuous work. 🙂 It’s important to let yourself off the hook every once in a while.
So well said, B.J.! Thank you so much for commenting and sharing your insight 🙂
When making to do lists and it feels like only huge projects are on it, I find that writing down the subtasks is more helpful. It allows me to do one part of the project at a time and give me more opportunity to scratch things off, which is always a great feeling. It also helps me organize my day and block out times that can be used for other things.
I love it, Jay! Breaking down a bigger project into actionable steps in your list is a perfect strategy. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
This was a nice article! Another thing ive read on another article is to do at least five minutes of what it is you are dreading and then you will be more willing to finish it. Usually works for me.. 🙂
I love that tip! Thanks Aj 🙂
great post
Thanks so much, Chad! 🙂
Great post! Definitely a lot to practice.
I’ve been feeling so unmotivated lately because one of my clients just told me that he couldn’t pay our agreed-upon rate at the moment, and just promised to make up for it in a few months. Now he keeps on adding work, all of which, considering the new rate he’s giving would come out essentially free.
The only reason I’m staying is because I don’t want to come out as unprofessional if I leave him hanging, especially since we’re at a crucial point in our project and I play a big role in it. But every time my client adds another task I can’t help but feel resentful and disinterested, and ultimately, unmotivated.
As I type this I’m supposed to be working haha, but I just…don’t want to anymore. I’d really appreciate your thoughts as an experienced freelancer on how to overcome this.
Hey Julia! That can definitely be difficult, but I know you can do it and make the best decision for you and your business. 🙂 Thanks for commenting and sharing.
Unfortunately depending on inspirational feelings to getting things done is not a sustaining solution. There could be a better way by accepting the feeling and still doing what one needs to do. http://sathyawrites.com/getting-things-done-2/
These tips are so useful! Definitely made my feel better about my low-motivation days.
Cristina
I’m so glad to hear it, Cristina 🙂 Best of luck with everything and please keep me posted on your progress!
Melyssa , I absolutely love your writing skills. These low motivation days suck out all the happiness in me. Having one today, huh!
Thanks for the kind words, Stuti! Hopefully this post gave you the motivation to rock it today! Best of luck 🙂
Mornings are when I am at my worst. I like to start my day with doing creative things I enjoy (such as writing short stories are doodling) to get my brain functioning. This can improve my work skills, while also feeling like I’m on break. 🙂
That is an awesome way to get the day started. Thanks so much for sharing, Mica 🙂
Your picture gave me an erection.
Just starting is my tip! Even if you set a timer and just do 15 minutes of the work, at least you can chip away at it. Ideally it gives you a bit of momentum so you do more than that but if not at least you’re still making SOME progress! 🙂
Exactly! Those small wins will add up to big wins over time! Thanks for sharing, Katherine 🙂
Great article, and good tips! I know that with myself, I find the more organized I am the more productive I also am.
Getting organized beforehand TOTALLY helps productivity levels. Thanks for sharing that tip, Ana! 🙂
nice suggestions ! I would also recommend that you take a look at google’s great chrome extension https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/inspirational-motivationa/acddjlhnfdfnnkndoejkmijpmbiipneo?hl=en , it really helps in keeping anyone being motivated
Thanks for the tip, Ziv! 🙂
I have read a ton of articles about getting motivated, and this is the only one that made any sense. Because I am this list. LOL “Fear of how long it will take? Too much pride about not being able to deliver something spectacular enough?” So me. Those two right there have made me delay anywhere from 3 months to a year getting some work done. And when I finally made myself sit down and do them, they only took a matter of hours, and the people really loved what I made for them. So it’s all in my head. They are my top two barriers. Then the social media problem. Definitely me. I waste so much time there because I am afraid I’ll miss something. And organization – I always have a messy desk with crap in my way; the 20-second (or 5 min) rule – I don’t have stuff out and ready so I say screw it and don’t do it… when you perform your best (top of your game)… ALL of it except the reward. The reward doesn’t work on me. Thanks for an actual useful article. I need to get it together. lol
Hey Jeanne! I’m so glad this post was helpful for you! Being aware of and acknowledging the fears is the first step so now it’s time to work through them. Best of luck to you and please keep me posted on your progress. 😀
Omg u want something extremely unmotivating try building and rebuilding many many many PCs over and over and over again especially Pc’s that are in the thousands of thousands dollars range.
Rn i’m upgrading a previous rig of mine and jezus this is alotta fucking work.
Lets start with the fact that this entire PC is made of Large Tempered Glass Panels, about the size of a small square coffee table, so anytime i wanna work on this thing out come the latex gloves. K so what, well the case is about 20 lbs empty, again not too big of a deal untill u realize each panel floats above the chassis, not sinking in yet alright lets continue.
Most modern pc’s don’t have this problem, well not this insane but wtv for the rest of us gamers/enthusiasts we got literally got and i wish i was joking about 20-30 different wires going every which way, so here’s the next time waster, cable management.
Sounding fun yet, no… Well that’s unfortunate welcome to my life & hobbies.
This article may help me a bit but i think my only problem is creating more problems uk?
Well that pretty much entails what I’m going to go on about for those of you interested in seeing one on earth I am actually talking about take a look at this vvvvvv
https://pcpartpicker.com/list/TTDRhq
Might give u guys & gals some scope here.
Anyways thanks for the tips i’ll try some out.
Pce
“Recognizing when your at the top of the game” hit home for me! This is me…I’m a new blogger and I am so determine to make this blog successful one day. Being that I never even knew what a blog was lol I have a lot to learn. I have learned SOOOO much up to this point. Invested money in courses and so much more of my time invested In this. I love this! HOWEVER!! I guess I’m still trying to figure out my schedule? I am exactly what you described. I am doing the small things first thing in the morning when I am fully alert, by the time I have the BIG important things to do, I am exhausted! I know I probably need to try to switch these two things around…but do you have any tips for this? I know it is all different for everyone. Just curious! I love this post…thank you so much for sharing this info!
Hey Stephanie! My recommendation would be to batch certain tasks in order to work more efficiently. For example, you can do all of your social media scheduling on Monday evenings, blog post writing on Tuesday mornings, etc. so that you can focus on that one task and get more done. Hope that helps. 🙂
I am going back to school, working, raising teenagers and trying to maintain a healthy marriage to a man who works insane hours. My biggest time suck is other people. I attract those who can’t help themselves for some reason and they get pretty offended when I am pretty straight forward, I am not the one to come to with their issues. I don’t have time for that. Part of my major is actually social media, but I really try to stay off of it. If it isn’t furthering my career, increasing my bank account or helping me get better grades; I am trying to avoid it right now. I am also like you, I am useless in the afternoon. 3pm rolls around and I pretty much want a nap! So I too batch the heavy thinking work to the morning and the light stuff to the evenings after dinner when I have had time to just unwind. I am so burnt out, but I have one more year of this insane schedule. Then who knows what. But I love this article, it reminds me to just breathe and compartmentalize things so I can get them done. Thanks!
Wow, you do have a very full, busy schedule Tera, I don’t know how you do it! 🙂 I appreciate you taking the time to comment. A lot of what you’re practicing comes down to essentialism – making time for the things that truly matter 🙂
Thank you for the article! I feel other people’s reluctance to engage with someone who wants to change her career one of the toughest things I’ve gone through. I seem to hit walls. Most painfully I read from some of these people platitudes around ‘change is good’ ‘don’t look back you’re not going there’…blah blah blah, yet when it comes to actually walking their own talk, nada. It is a real psychological struggle. I feel like I’m being punished. I know intellectually that perhaps that thought is irrational, yet the feeling is sometimes so overwhelming. I have not been ‘in charge’ of my career, I just thought that my work would be enough to get me to a high position. Yet, that wasn’t the case. I didn’t exude confidence and I wasn’t someone who spoke up as such I endured a lot of really crappy managers and bullying. After 16 years I had enough. I then discovered within me what I really wanted. Yet, I can’t seem to catch a break. I can’t tell you how psychologically challenging it is to keep going with the change. It’s tough. Really tough and platitudes no longer taste like crisp sparkling water, it’s more like flat tasteless sense. Could really use practical tip/advice. Thanks,
I find change to be really refreshing, and sometimes trying to find the silver linings in the journey is really worth it, Jo! It sounds like you faced some struggles with your career – you stuck it out a long time (16 years is awhile!) If this change feels good to you and you feel like ultimately it will bring you happiness and fulfillment, I would stick it out longer. Good luck with everything, I am thinking of you 🙂
Thank you! I am an elementary student who actually gets good grades but lately I just didn’t feel the motivation I have always felt and I just didn’t feel like doing anything.
I hope this article helped you 🙂 Best of luck at school!
Thanks for this, it is a great post. I googled “being non-motivated” cuz I am in such a funk with work, but it is not the work I want to be doing, and I am super scared to start my own thing.