How do Success Strategies and Motivation Methods affect your mental health?
Introduction
In the pursuit of success, the key lies not only in setting goals but also in understanding what truly motivates and propels you forward. This article explores effective motivation methods and success strategies, emphasising the importance of customisation to suit your style.
I’ve had plenty of flat spots in my life, not wanting to go to the gym or study that extra hour, or even write these articles that in honesty not many people read but help me reflect.
Instead of turning to books and influencers' top tips for motivation and waiting, hoping that something magical inside will turn me into an academic weapon or finding the drive to work hard.
I turned my focus to what motivates me. The WHY…
It may seem obvious and mundane, but thinking, really thinking, about what gets me out of bed in the morning and putting it on paper was one of the most beneficial things I have done in recent months.
Why do I want to go to the gym? Not to become Arnold Schwarzenegger, but to be fit and healthy.
Why should I study that extra hour? Not to avoid the extrinsic motivation of disappointing my parents, but because learning about DNA and anatomy is interesting to me.
Why should I put effort into how I dress? Not to impress others, but to push myself into expressing myself externally.
Section 1: The Myth of "Remembering the End Goal"
Many have heard the advice to "remember the end goal" for motivation, but this one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work for everyone. Constantly dwelling on future aspirations can be overwhelming, making it crucial to shift focus to the present.
The present is all we ever have.
It’s nice to have a variety of end goals in mind of varying aspirations, but only done constructively. A classic SMART goal may not be the best structure, but a vision board might be. However, be sure to break the 1-month, 1-year, 5-year goal into what can I do today, or if you’re lucky, right now to move closer to that goal.
My end goal to get into medicine after my current Biomedical degree to then specialise in Psychiatry does sit in my mind, but constantly thinking about the future makes my head spin. Being comfortable with having to get through these 3 units this semester and the consequential units is this year’s goal which is a lot closer than the 12-year end goal.
Visualisation: A Personalised Motivation Method
Visualizing success might sound cliché, but it can be a powerful tool. This technique involves picturing yourself achieving your goals, and providing a positive and aspirational perspective. Reframing comparisons from social media as sources of inspiration rather than perfection can foster a healthier mindset.
When doom-scrolling TikTok, it's hard to stay grounded and remember that the portrayed perfection is not someone’s everyday life.
Section 2: Crafting Your Motivation Method
Understanding that motivation methods vary greatly among individuals, it's essential to find what resonates with you. Whether it's a gym photo as your lock screen, gamification, or creating leaderboards, discover what ignites your inner drive.
Curating Your Social Media Feed
Choosing who and what you follow on social media can significantly impact your mindset. Opt for content from respected and qualified individuals or organizations, creating a personalized mood board that reflects your aspirations.
I know Instagram and TikTok are my most used apps, so why not try to get the most out of them? TikTok’s For You Page’s algorithm is incredible, it does give you more of what you like. I’m not saying you must only follow Vox and the New York Times, but including productive sources of entertainment in your feed can give you that little bit more motivation you might need.
Section 3: Success Strategies: Your Personalised Path to Achievement
Unlike motivation methods, success strategies encompass a broader spectrum of approaches. From choosing the right environment to finding your unique workflow, success strategies are about tailoring your surroundings to optimise productivity. Whether that’s a café or a library, ensuring you have your emotional support drink bottle, or wearing Ugg boots at your desk. For me, it’s as soon as I play my Morning Focus playlist that I switch into gear.
Planning: A Personal Success Strategy
For some (including myself), planning is a key success strategy. Crafting a well-thought-out, prioritised to-do list, rather than relying on intimidating deadlines, can serve as a motivational catalyst. The focus here is on breaking down tasks and maintaining a flexible timeline. Or if you want to mind map it, or draw it out, or just jump straight in and finish the task in a week, it’s up to you.
Section 4: Finding Your Winning Combination
The magic happens when you align a consistent motivation method with a practical success strategy. Discovering what uniquely works for you becomes the secret sauce to sustained motivation and continuous goal achievement.
After reading this give yourself 5 minutes or more or less on these questions:
Why do you do what you do?
In your career
In your relationships
For your health
What is your environment like when you are at your best?
What is your productivity system? (is it writing a to-do list each day? Using a calendar to plan everything for the week? Creating a strategy of how you will tackle the project?)
Conclusion
Success is a personal journey, and by taking the time to identify your motivation triggers and success strategies, you empower yourself to navigate challenges and celebrate achievements consistently. Embrace what works for you, and unlock the doors to a successful and fulfilling life.
