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Mindset and motivation hacks to help stay on track and get things done

GeneralEdward Kiledjian

Motivation and mindset are essential components of productivity. Motivation drives you to take action, while mindset refers to your attitude and perspective. Together, they play a crucial role in keeping you on track and helping you accomplish your goals. In today's fast-paced and demanding world, however, maintaining a positive attitude and high motivation can be challenging. Here are some mindset and motivational hacks you can use to stay focused and achieve your goals.

Set clear and specific goals

Setting clear and specific goals is one of the most effective ways to remain motivated. Focus and motivation are easier to maintain when you clearly understand what you wish to accomplish. In addition, there is evidence that setting specific and challenging goals can increase motivation and improve performance (Locke and Latham, 2002). Ensure that your goals are realistic, measurable, and time-bound to increase your chances of success.

Practice positive self-talk

It is your thoughts and beliefs that shape your mindset and determine your level of motivation. Negative thoughts, such as "I cannot do this," can result in low motivation and self-doubt. Conversely, positive self-talk, such as "I can do this," can boost your confidence and motivation. There is evidence that positive self-talk can improve performance and reduce stress (Meichenbaum, 1977).

Find your why

Motivation is often influenced by our why, or our purpose. Knowing why you are doing something makes it easier to remain motivated. Several studies have demonstrated that individuals with a strong sense of purpose are more likely to be motivated and achieve their goals (Emmons, 2007). Therefore, it is important to reflect on why you are working on a particular task or project and whether it is aligned with your values or goals.

Break tasks into smaller chunks

Breaking down large tasks into smaller portions can make them feel more manageable. Research has shown that chunking can increase motivation and improve performance (Azevedo and Aleven, 2008). It is easier to complete tasks by breaking them down into smaller steps and feeling a sense of accomplishment as you complete each step.

Reward yourself

You can increase your motivation by rewarding yourself for a job well done. Evidence shows that rewards can increase motivation and lead to better performance (Deci, Koestner, and Ryan, 1999). Take a moment to celebrate your accomplishment after completing a task or achieving a goal. It can be as simple as taking a short break or treating yourself to something you enjoy.

Conclusion

Keeping a positive attitude and high motivation levels is essential for staying on track and getting things done. You can increase your motivation and achieve your goals by setting clear and specific goals, practicing positive self-talk, finding your why, breaking tasks into smaller chunks and rewarding yourself.

References:

  • Azevedo, R., & Aleven, V. (2008). Learning from examples: An effective way to support self-explanation. Journal of Educational Psychology, 100(3), 715–730.

  • Deci, E. L., Koestner, R., & Ryan, R. M. (1999). A meta-analytic review of experiments examining the effects of extrinsic rewards on intrinsic motivation. Psychological Bulletin, 125(6), 627–668.

  • Emmons, R. A. (2007). The psychology of ultimate concerns: Motivation and spirituality in personality. Guilford Press.

  • Locke, E. A., & Latham, G. P. (2002). Building a practically useful theory

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