Achieving your goals would be difficult if you are not focused or motivated. We live in a world where there are several constant sources of distractions – from phones, social media and television shows – so it is paramount we find actionable ways to always stay motivated and focused.

The matter of finding motivation can be difficult especially for procrastinators. In this article, we would discuss 10 easy ways to always stay motivated even when you feel stuck or depressed. Remember to use this tips one step at a time.

1. Set your own goals:

One of the biggest mistakes we make when setting goals is that we set them based on what we think people want us to do and not because it is the right to thing for us. We don’t set goals because it is what we truly desire but because we want to please others. For you always stay motivated, you have to set goals for yourself – that way you would be driven to reach your goals. When you do what truly makes you happy, it would make a lot of difference.

2. Visualize the results you want:

I read an amazing article on Forbes that says that visualizing the end result of a task or goal goes a long way in motivating you. When you visualize the benefits and the relief you would gain from completing the task, your focus would also increase. On the days when you don’t feel like doing anything, this mental picture would serve as a fuel to push by forward.

3. Break big goals into smaller parts:

When a goal is very huge, it can be very scary and demotivating. The best way to complete your goals is by breaking them into small actionable pieces. It would be easier to tackle your goals when they are in small organized parts. Your focus would also increase. Set deadlines for each of the smaller task as you get closer to realizing the bigger goal.

4. Surround yourself with positive energy:

When you are surrounded by negative vibes, you can be sure it would be difficult to always stay motivated. Surround yourself with people that are passionate about the same things you are passionate about. Human are social animals and we reciprocate the same energy we receive. If we spend majority of day with people who lack motivation or focus, you would exhibit similar character traits. Let to tap into people’s energy – positive energy.

5. Be Organized:

Nothing reduces your energy or motivation more than a disorganized or clustered workspace. Take your time to organize and ensure that everything is in the right place. Another thing you need to organize also is your mind. A cluttered mind can also hinder focus. Jot down your thoughts into a journal. That way you would be freeing your mind for more productive activities. The key to reaching your goals on time is by having a schedule. You can do this by making use of the GTD system of productivity.

6. Stop worrying about things beyond your control:

Take control of things you can and don’t worry about things you have no control over.

A lot of time we get paralyzed by the fear of the unknown. Stop wasting time thinking about the “what ifs” and focus on the task at hand. When you do a good job, you can be sure of positive results. Instead of worrying, put in your best effort and see the results.

7. Stay consistent:

Consistency is very important. Even on the days you don’t feel up to it. Just try to perform some piece of your task. These efforts no matter how little but with consistency would help you actualize your goals

8. Speak positive affirmations:

There is a lot of power in spoken words. Even when things aren’t going fantastic for you at the moment, learn to speak positively. Write down the affirmations and post it in a place you can see it regularly.

9. Do not repeat your mistakes instead learn from them:

Mistakes are a part of life. We just have to learn the lessons they teach us and move on from there. Evaluate yourself. Check out the steps that you took that caused you to fail and how you can avoid making them in the future. Write down the solutions to your problems so you are not caught off guard.

10. Celebrate small accomplishments:

Celebrating your accomplishments helps you to always stay motivated. Every time you reach a goal, whether big or small, you should celebrate your success. It doesn’t have to be something big like a party, eating a doughnut or pie can be used to celebrate. After receiving a reward, you would be motivated to do better next time.