Motivation

The definition of motivation is ‘internal and external factors that stimulate desire and energy in people to be continually interested and committed to a job, role or subject, or to make an effort to attain a goal’.

As an osteopathic clinic we regularly try to motivate our patients to improve their health to encourage healing and better function of the body. This can be through exercise, diet, weight loss or just allowing more time for oneself.

It may be the motivation to move better or become pain free that’s required. Sometimes large lifestyle adjustments are needed to create a space for change. Often though, we come across a lack of motivation, despite patients really wanting the end goal.

Those that have been successful in what they do must have had some degree of motivation. Some people aim to reach or exceed expectations, some like recognition or responsibility and others like personal advancement or growth. Many are simply motivated to help others.

Can we inspire people who are not motivated or have no desire to make changes even though it will undoubtedly improve their health? I think you can, but it can be tricky.  Finding that gateway to positive thoughts and feelings is different for everyone so it’s a matter of wading through the options until you find something that sticks.

Here are a few tips on achieving what you want through motivation:

Smart goal setting. Remember the goal you set must be realistic, timely, attainable and specific.

Self-Efficacy. Believe in yourself. Those with high levels of self-efficacy believe in their ability to perform a task and achieve goals. Take a look at the reasons you have decided you can’t do something and check the facts/evidence. Often there isn’t as much standing in your way as you thought.

Little by little. Sometimes the goal can be overwhelming, so start small and set targets. Make changes bit by bit. Create a new routine using repetition and before you know it you’ll be doing the change instinctively and enjoying the benefits. Then implement the next change and so on.

Motivate others to achieve or create change. The way you would motivate and encourage a colleague or friend, do this to yourself in the same way.

Going forward……try to empower yourself and set yourself little goals to achieve something that you would not normally do.  Once you have achieved these small things – encourage yourself to do a little bit more.  It can be amazing and wonderful at the same time when you do achieve what you have set out to do, how good it can make you feel.

Remember how THAT made you feel and hopefully it will motivate you to do more.

Blog post by James Dodd