Stay Motivated

Here's the truth:  if you want to be successful in anything you do, you have be (and stay) motivated.  This is something I have a problem.  Do you?  I am good at lists, I am good at goals, I am even good at the planning...it's the follow-through that trips me up.

A few weeks ago, Real Simple (one of my favorite resources, fyi) put together a list with 9 secrets of motivated people.  I just wanted to take a minute to talk about the 3 that I found most interesting and helpful.  But feel free to can read the entire article here!

#1)  When you make a plan, anticipate bumps.
LOVE THIS.  Maybe it's my business background, but the idea of contingency plans is so important to me.  C'mon people, things never go as planned!  There are always hiccups, setbacks, and even dead ends.  But that's okay, as long as you are ready for the twists and turns.
But you don't have to go and find a working crystal ball on eBay or whatever.  Just be ready to change your plans and don't allow yourself to get rattled by the changes or too discouraged to regroup and move forward.

#6)  Make yourself a priority.
Ugh, I am TERRIBLE at this.  So terrible, that I actually feel guilty when I consciously take time out for myself.  The truth is, however, that if you don't put yourself first, then who will?  YOU are just as important as everyone around you; so treat yourself just as well.  Which means investing some time and effort in the things that matter to you.
You can't reach any of your personal goals unless fulfilling your needs are at the top of your to-do list.  So move them up there!

#10)  Remember the deeper meaning.
Okay, okay, this one sounds cheesy and maybe that's true but it doesn't make it any less important!  It is a million times easier to stay motivated while working toward a goal if it is a goal you feel a real connection to.  For example, a lot of people choose to run or walk in charity-related events.  Why?  Because they are interested in the exercise opportunity AND they are undoubtedly connected to the cause.  It's the connection that makes the running easier.
So make goals for yourself that truly mean something.  This will push you to stay moving at a good clip on the right path.