Self Motivation in the Workplace

Motivational Techniques and Tips for When You Are On the Job

Self motivation in the workplace isn't merely important; it's essential for your survival. This ability can easily make the difference between excellence and mediocrity. You can't count on your manager to motivate you, you must take on this responsibility yourself.

You are not powerless. You do not need to make excuses, and you never need wallow in self-pity or blame others. You simply need to fuel your work motivation when you need it most. Following are ideas you can use at work.

Choose a role model - Who do you know, have read about, or heard about whose success encourages and stimulates you? This person doesn't have to work in your field. You simply want to use their patterns/processes for success as a guide for your own success.

Do Something - The only difference between inaction and stagnation is time. The longer you procrastinate or stew over an unpleasant task, the harder it is to overcome inertia. You can even list benefits of completing the task. For example benefits might include: improving your reputation, or the opportunity for more money.

Create and Post Sight Triggers - Use pictures, posters, quotes, poems, whatever visuals you need for self motivation.

Use Audio Triggers - Listen to inspiring music or self help recordings.

Keep a Progress Chart - A progress chart is both a valuable way to monitor progress and an excellent sight trigger. It confirms you are making headway which really benefits self motivation.

Break a Big Task Into Smaller Tasks - It's much easier to manage a monster task when you break it into smaller pieces. Not only does it provide an orgainized way to make progress, but it also will allows better use of your time as you can spread out tasks over a period of time.

Set Deadlines - Setting and announcing a deadline puts your pride at stake. If you value your reputation, this is one of the most powerful motivating practices you can use.

Get a Workplace Accountability Partner - This is a co-worker or employee who follows up and monitors your progress. Or, this person may simply remind you of due dates and deadlines. This is someone who cheers you on. Who wants to see you succeed.

Don't Take Things Personally - Many people make the mistake of taking everything personally in the workplace. Keep things in perspective - feedback is about your performance - not you as a person. That cubicle you use is a simply a space. If you are asked to move, don't go ballistic over it. Simploy concentrate on doing the best job you possibly can - being the best employee you can. The rest shouldl take care of itself.

Take 'Mental Days' - Sometimes a day off is needed simply to regroup and rejuvenate.

When it comes to self motivation techniques in the workplace remember this slogan: If it's meant to be, its up to me. So use this ideas to fuel your motivation when needed.