Staying Motivated

Lets Do This!

     Although I relate this topic mostly to writing, the same rules apply to anyone who is struggling to reach their goal. Wether you're trying to write a book, lose weight or getting a degree sooner or later we will all have trouble staying motivated. 

     I've found throughout the years that the trick to staying on course is to keep your eyes on the goal. Remind yourself why you're doing this and embrace the struggle. On a weekly basis I find myself giving a pep talk to my internal writer. This pep talk will be different for everyone but mine sounds like a bunch of motivation quotes I've picked up over the years strung together or a general giving a speech before war. It goes something like this.

     "Nobody is going to do it for you, you have to take it. How bad do you want it? One day I may give up on my dreams, one day I might abandon all hope but that day is not today. Hate all weakness but above all hate weakness in yourself. Don't pray for an easier life, pray for strength to endure the one you have. Let's get this done."

     Pretty intense and crazy right? But it works for me. I take it personal when I can't complete a goal. Find whatever you need to say to yourself to stay on track and keep motivated. Then go attack whatever obstacle is in front of you like King Leonidas, because that guy is straight kicking people in the chest down really dark deep holes!

The Beautiful Struggle of Writing…

How not to go crazy writing every single day.

     I recently had someone ask me how many words I average a day. I told them that my goal each day was 4,000 new words. While their mouth dropped open I assured them that although that was my goal I sometimes landed between 2,000 and 3,000 words. Their mouths just dropped further. 

     They asked me how I was able to sit and make so many words appear on the page. I thought about it for a few seconds and told them that I did it because I made myself. The answer was simple but even as I think about it now it's still true. I write, I make goals and I follow through because I want it bad enough.

     I'm a firm believer that if anyone wants something enough they can accomplish it through hard work and dedication. Writing 4,000 words a day isn't easy for me, but like anything else I've practiced and it has become easier. 

     My best advice is to start with a goal of 1,000 words a day and stay consistent. Don't make excuses and hold yourself accountable. When you are able to hit 1,000 words a day on a consistent basis up it a few hundred. Word by word you'll make it. Embrace the struggle and find joy in the process. After all as writers this is what we signed up for… right?