Google defines motivation as the process that initiates, guides, and maintains goal-oriented behaviors. Motivation can be what prompts you to revamp your resume, or go to the gym, or start to save money to purchase a home. However lack of motivation can easily interfere with the very same goals. Motivation is temporary. Motivation is talked about as if it is something that comes to stay. However, that is just not true. Motivation is temporary, very temporary. Have you ever woke up “motivated” only to be depleted or back to the regular routine by lunch? Probably. If you recognize that your motivation does not last long I have four helpful tips on how to handle lack of motivation.

Revisit your why. I know this is cliche but is it true. Revisiting your “why” should help to get the spark lit and motivate you into action. If revisiting your why does not re-motivate you, then maybe that particular goal is no longer a priority or is not for you right now. I launched this blog exactly one month ago, as this is the fourth weekly post. I started this blog to provide mental health education and inspiration for people struggling with mental health issues but can not overcome the shame to seek professional help or go to therapy. The blog post are supposed to be released by 9:30 am on Wednesday, however I am currently typing this at 10:00 am on Wednesday. I had no motivation. This leads me to my next tip.

Take some time. If you have revisited your why and you are still not motivated…take some time. I like to believe that “absence makes the heart grow fonder” so I will take some time. Sometimes, it is a few hours, sometimes it can be a few days. Maybe you have not lost motivation but you are burned out? Again, in reference to this blog, I have been posting weekly and been creating social media content to go along with the blog post to grow my following all with little results. I was burned out (already) and so last night, I put the blog away, had a cup of tea, and went to sleep.

Build a routine. Build a routine that sticks while motivated. You probably aren’t very motivated to brush your teeth or take a shower everyday but you do because it has become part of your hygiene routine. Once motivated to do anything, began to develop your routine and discipline. A routine and discipline will last when motivation has checked out. Again, to this blog. My routine is to gather material throughout the week. Write and create the content on Sunday and schedule the content and blog post to be released so that I can continue to focus on my business and family. Side note: don’t beat yourself up if you fall off of the routine, just get back up.

Seek professional help: If you have done the three above tips and are still lacking motivation, maybe it is time to seek professional help. This could be your primary care physician or a therapist. Lack of motivation is a symptoms of depression but could also be “fatigue” due to a medical issue such as low Vitamin D levels.

In conclusion, it is normal to lose motivation, especially in the monotony of every day life. The great thing about motivation is, it can come and go often. Motivation can come from anywhere like motivational speeches accessible on youtube, TED talks, or even social media influencers. Maybe the only routine you develop is to listen to something motivational daily! Cue Motivate 🎶 by J. Cole.

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Disclaimer: I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, but I am not YOUR Licensed Clinical Social Worker. These blog posts are based on my personal opinions, reflections, and insights and are not intended to be taken as professional therapeutic intervention(s) and/or advice. Further, please note these blogs are not intended to serve as and/or replace formal counseling services. If you are in need or interested in taking part in direct therapeutic services, please contact your insurance provider’s customer service for assistance. You may also consult website such as (but not limited to) Psychology Today and Therapy for Black Girls to find a therapist. If you are located in NC, MD, SC, or VA and would like to work with me, click here to ensure I accept your insurance or check my rates and here to schedule an appointment.