2020 was the curveball no one ever thought could be thrown their way. The COVID-19 pandemic affected everyone differently, with many losing their motivation for everyday life.
In March 2020, many businesses had to close up shop and rethink their plans and pivot, especially local and small businesses. They needed all the support they could get, and it was easy to lose the motivation required to adapt and keep their doors open.
Nowadays, even if businesses are in-person, they aren't going to the office or the store. As a result of the digital transformation, we've lost the opportunity to socialize with much of our communities, particularly co-workers as companies have moved to a remote model.
While employees feel many benefits to working from home, they're stuck seeing the same four walls each day. Some have little kids running around and others don't even change out of their pajamas before their first Zoom call. As a result, getting out of bed and sitting in front of a computer screen is becoming harder everyday.
These are 10 ways to keep yourself motivated in your everyday work life, whether you are remote, hybrid or in-person.
1. Stay Focused on Your Goals
It may be harder to stay motivated if you don’t know what you're trying to achieve. Make a list or create a vision board of your goals. If it helps, print your list out and hang it on your wall or above your desk, or keep it on you at all times. This way you won’t forget, and you’ll have a constant reminder to keep going.
2. Be Active
Lying on your couch all day watching Netflix and eating snacks may sound amazing (and is sometimes necessary), but if you don’t keep your body moving, it'll begin to shut down. Get outside and go for a walk, head to the gym with a friend, or even try out some Pilates videos on YouTube. There's something for everyone!
3. Test Out a New Hobby
Have you ever wanted to try something new, but didn't have to time to pick up a new hobby? With our new flexible workdays, now you have time while you’re at home to take up baking, painting, or sewing! Go on Pinterest for inspirational ideas and DIY activities.
4. Stay Connected with Friends and Family
We’re all in this together! Stay in contact with your loved ones through social media or even a phone call. Talking with family and friends can put a smile on your face and remind you that you’re not alone. Need a place to talk to other entrepreneurs like yourself? Join in the #WorkLife Facebook Group!
5. Don’t Sink into a Negative Mindset
Giving up and letting your mind focus on any negativity surrounding you will make things worse. Being positive helps you look on the bright side. Try meditating or listening to a podcast before bed to relax your mind—it's important that you get a good night’s sleep, so you're refreshed and ready to conquer the next day.
6. Forget About the Past and Focus on the Future
It may be hard to look forward during a time of uncertainty, but keep your plans for the future in mind. Try not to dwell on what has already happened - especially if past actions or events are stressful - and instead find your new and improved personal product roadmap. Soon enough things will start to get better, and you’ll be able to reflect on how well you handled living through a pandemic.
7. Just Relax
Overworking does not help to reduce stress levels (in fact, it makes them worse), but taking a day to yourself won't. Laying on the couch and binging your favorite Netflix show is all you want to do sometimes (of course, just make sure you're not doing it all the time).
8. Remember Your Accomplishments
Remember all of the accomplishments you’ve had throughout life. Big or small, you worked hard to achieve every one of them. Remember this passion, and use it to succeed in your future goals. Need help reminding yourself how awesome you are? Write down all those accomplishments and display them prominently.
9. Get Organized
Keeping yourself organized helps you create (and follow!) an efficient plan for greatness! Take the time to organize your room or house, because a clean environment is a positive environment. Also, get a planner to keep track of your weekly tasks and schedule.
10. Reward Yourself!
If you feel comfortable, go out and get yourself pampered, or stay in and go online shopping. It’s okay to treat yourself from time to time. Even if treating yourself is ordering a ton of food from your favorite local restaurant!
Keep your head up and focus on what's best for you and your business. We will get through these tough times because we are truly all in this together.
