red panda

I don’t know if it’s just a friday thing, but today I am not feeling motivated to do much at all.

This lack of motivation has motivated me to write about self-motivation. If you are a freelancer like me, self motivation is a core componant to being a successful soloist.

My tips for self-motivation…

Write a List
First thing in the morning, write down a series of tasks that you would like to complete. They can be simple frivolous tasks such as checking your emails. But as you cross off each item on that list you will feel a sense of achievement that will spur you on to tackle the next item on the agenda.

Drinks
Have plenty of drinks on hand, preferably warm caffeinated ones. Not alcoholic ones, unless it’s friday afternoon. Then it is acceptable.

Have work to do
It’s hard to motivate yourself if you literally have nothing to do. If you have no work on, think of some self-promotional strategies. If you haven’t already, design your own business cards and give multiple cards to existing clients. Your existing clients are your best source of new work and contacts. Let them know that you are looking to expand your client base and are happy for them to refer you to their networks.

Don’t Avoid
It’s best to get the tasks you enjoy the least out of the way first. That way you are not procrastinating and have all of the much funner stuff ahead of you.

Break it up
Break up large projects into smaller bite size pieces so it’s easier to chew on. Then you will see the progress you are making on a day-to-day basis.

Celebrate
Celebrate your achievements. Take credit for what you have done, or learnt along the way. This will give you the confidence to keep going.

Ok now I’m off to hopefully follow some of my own advice.

by Michelle Tinker