While we’re exploring ways to make your company a more productive and profitable organization, it’s also important not to forget about the individuals involved … including you! That’s where personal motivation comes into play. Fortunately, there are a few things that each of us can do to feel more energized and confident in meeting our day-to-day challenges.
- Focus on specific goals. There’s a difference between saying “I want to lose weight” and “I am going to lose 30 pounds,” or saying “I need more customers” versus “I’ll increase my customer base by 15% by the end of the quarter.” Specific goals help you define success and failure, and allow you to measure your progress. Just as importantly, you’ll have the motivation of an “I did it!” moment worth celebrating when you achieve your objective.
- Have a positive outlook. When you’re looking at a looming chore, it’s only human to regard it solely in terms of the amount of misery it will deliver during its undertaking (i.e., boredom, eye-strain, frazzled nerves, bone weariness … etc.). But look beyond the unpleasantness and concentrate on the good things that will come about as a result of your fine efforts and motivation. (And if, after sincerely trying, you can’t see the upside of completing a task before you, maybe you need to rethink its value.)
- Take one thing at a time. We all admire the multitasker, don’t we? That’s why we see so many surgeons reviewing medical journals, going over finances with accountants, or talking to patients’ families while also performing operations. (Just kidding!) Don’t allow yourself to be distracted or stymied in your progress by squeaking wheels or other non-critical matters. Prioritize, and give each task your undivided attention in its due order.
- Associate with the ‘right’ people. Your mom or dad probably warned you not to hang around with ‘bad influences.’ Now that you’re an adult, this is still good advice. Bring people into your social circle and make business contacts with men and women who offer positive motivation, who understand the relationship of hard work and reward, and who serve as good examples for others in both their personal and professional lives.
- Enjoy your victories. Remember that comment about celebrating when you meet a goal? It’s really important that you do! Otherwise, you’re just another dog in the race who never gets to catch the rabbit. Be sure to consciously tie your reward with your achievement. For example, tell yourself you’re getting your favorite dessert at dinner because you finished reconciling that tedious spreadsheet, or take your spouse out on a long-weekend cruise when you boost sales by 50%. (And always be sure to reward your hard-working employees as well!)
- Do you what you love. We realize there will be unavoidable aspects of any occupation that won’t be anyone’s idea of fun. (For example, people who like to cook may not like washing dishes.) Just make sure that the entirety of your work, or the end result of your endeavors, is something that ultimately makes you proud, happy or fulfilled.
Along with the self-help approach, another great way to feel motivated at work is to free yourself from a lot of nagging worries by implementing proven, repeatable processes that will enable you to truly enjoy your work … and make a good living at the same time. That’s The SynchroNet Way, and we’re always motivated to help our clients achieve their goals.
