How to Remain Motivated When Things Get Difficult

We all have those moments when motivation vanishes right when we need it most.

Be it a looming deadline, a prickly business concern, or tough studies, the obstacles of life tend to put us in a dilemma about how to go on.

Accept Your Feelings

When things go wrong, frustration is inevitable. Instead of resisting those emotions, acknowledge them: “I’m struggling at the moment, and that’s okay.” Acknowledging your feelings allows you to process them rather than letting them build up.

Remember Why You Started

Go back to what first inspired you; your business vision, career goal, or desire to make a difference. When challenges cloud your vision, remembering your original purpose can reignite your motivation.

Break Down Tasks into Bite-Sized Steps

A giant task can be overwhelming but breaking it into bite-sized steps is manageable. Instead of staring at the whole mountain, only tackle it step by step: “Tuesday: write the report.” “Thursday: edit.” It’s every little victory that gains momentum.

Shift Your Point of View

When Sarah lost a high-profile client, her initial response was, “I’m failing.” Then she rewrote the script: “This is how success stories begin.” The way you define struggles often decides whether you quit or persevere.

Connect With Others

Alone, it’s easy to get isolated. You don’t have to be always alone. Surround yourself with people who get it: classmates, industry peers, or mentors. What they have to say and can offer might just be what you need.

Build Consistent Habits

Motivation comes and goes, but habits keep you going. Authors who write every day, athletes who never miss Monday practice, and entrepreneurs who block out planning time establish systems that keep them going even when motivation dips.

Celebrate Small Wins

Did you make that difficult call? Send that resume? Crack the first part of a pesky puzzle?

Give yourself credit! Conditioning your brain to see progress, whether big or small, it boosts motivation.

Be Kind to Yourself

If your friend was struggling, you’d encourage them. Be as generous with yourself.

Motivation is not being inspired all the time; it’s about developing strength to keep going when inspiration falters. Which of these strategies will you employ today?