Retreats, conferences, and seminars can all do wonders for our motivation, but how do you stay motivated once you’re back in the office dealing with day to day problems?
Working with a variety of organizations, I hear seminar participants ask, “How can we sustain motivation after this session? What can we do after this board retreat-when we return to our demanding daily routines-to handle sales rejection, managerial conflicts, and increased responsibilities (at the same pay level), without getting down?”
Whatever our job, we understand the problem. It’s not easy to keep our batteries charged. That’s why I want to share with you this exercise I ask clients to complete, working alone silently.
Rate yourself on your use of these widely accepted methods for sustaining a high level of motivation
With 10 being the highest score and 1 the lowest, put the appropriate number for your customary thoughts and behavior:
________I reserve time for silence, meditation, quiet reflection.
________I listen to motivational tapes as I travel.
________I associate with highly positive people whose upbeat attitudes are contagious.
________I attend one or more conventions/conferences/seminars annually.
________I memorize inspirational sayings and repeat them daily.
________I keep a journal, filled with uplifting thoughts from others, and possibly even my own reflections.
________I realize the connection between physical fitness and attitude, so I practice good health habits.
________I retreat to serene and beautiful places, away from the frantic demands of professional life.
________I draw strength from my family.
________I take time off every week, even during the most frantic periods.
________I schedule an annual vacation, and occasional long weekends for R&R.
________I recognize that I am responsible for my moods. Circumstances aren’t, other people aren’t, bad luck isn’t – I assume full responsibility for my moods.
________I maintain a sensible attitude about rejection, and avoid paranoid feelings.
________I’m not overwhelmed and depressed by my duties, because I am well organized.
________I go to my friends and peers for advice and encouragement when life’s pressures start causing stress and worry.
________I don’t get bogged down in gossip, criticism, and other forms of negative thinking and talking.
________I have selected one or two highly respected mentors to serve as role models for my career, and I learn from them frequently.
________I avoid boredom by trying new strategies, at least twice a month.
TOTAL SCORE:___________ (All 10s would give you 180 points, all 7s would give you 126 points. Where does your score fall?)
Now, please note what your score indicates. Are you using enough of these spirit-boosters? Which ones can you add to your current list of healthy habits?
Also, what spirit-boosters are you using that don’t appear on the above list?
I encourage you to remain on the lookout constantly for thoughts and activities that will elevate your morale. You’ll gain personal serenity, improve family relationships, enrich friendships, and work with greater cooperation and productivity.
