Three Easy Steps To Find Motivation and Thrive at Work

Finding motivation is difficult, but this powerful skill can set high-achievers apart. It is critical in achieving personal goals and job satisfaction. Follow these steps that can be implemented easily at work to develop effective self-motivation. Photo by Nakaridore / Freepik.com

Do you remember your first day in a new position? You were probably buzzing with energy and fresh ideas. After a few years, a job that was once satisfying and exciting now seems dull. Workdays have become a monotonous routine filled with emails, phone calls and waiting for long meetings to end. How can you bring back the spark when you just aren’t in the mood? 

Our individual needs drive us to put in the effort necessary to get what we want. Strong motivating factors can be external or internal, for example: getting a raise or feeling appreciated at work. It is also important to reflect on demotivating factors such as a heavy workload and lack of support. These issues can be faced by breaking tasks into smaller, more achievable objectives and surrounding ourselves with inspiring people.

#1 Find Motivation from Within

Research shows that intrinsic motivation can sustain creativity, passion and effort for longer. According to the Self Determination Theory by Deci and Ryan, conditions that support fundamental needs such as autonomy, competence, and relatedness create powerful motivation and long-lasting engagement. Goals feel more purposeful when they are connected to something you value, then tasks no longer feel like an obligation. 

Extrinsic motivators like bonuses or promotions can feel great, but the feeling is short-lived. Making connections, being a good role model or being part of a productive team are more meaningful reasons to go to work each day. 

Try to identify internal sources of motivation, this will help you find your ‘‘why’’ so you can stay motivated for the long haul.

#2 Break a Big Task into Small Goals

Motivation can disappear when the task in front of us is too big. Overwhelming tasks can be difficult to start and tempting to give up halfway. Edwin Locke’s Goal Setting Theory from the 1960s stated that specific and challenging goals can give direction. When facing a challenging task, try to break it down into smaller achievable steps, these small goals should be realistic and clear. Tackling one objective at a time can build self-confidence and encourage you to commit to finishing the task.

#3 Connect and Engage

Ayelet Fishbach, a professor in Behavioural Science and Marketing, recommends harnessing the influence of others. Invite a colleague or friend to coffee so you can talk about what motivates them to accomplish their work. Talking with motivated and optimistic people can encourage and inspire you to get back on track. 

Challenge yourself to be a mentor and give advice to others. If you bring a positive attitude to work, it can be contagious and boosts office morale. Soon your fellow team members may feel motivated and ready to pursue more challenging tasks. 

Another approach could be talking to your team leader or manager about setting goals and incentives to help you perform better. Schedule a weekly meeting to evaluate how the new strategy is going. External support and feedback will hold you accountable and help you understand what you could be doing differently. 

Final tip! Try not to overwork yourself. Longer working hours can leave you feeling tired, unmotivated, and even less productive. However, giving yourself some downtime will help you feel refreshed and inspired to start the workday with confidence! 

What motivates you to achieve success at work? Do you take pride in helping others or find satisfaction in challenging tasks? Check out Jobspin.cz for hundreds of multilingual job opportunities in the Czech Republic. Join one of the upcoming job fairs in Prague and Brno to meet global-minded employers!

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