News You Can Use
Motivation must come from within
University Relations
News Bureau (662) 325-3442
Contact: Kasia Haupt
July 30, 2004
STARKVILLE, Miss.—No matter what the personal or professional goals, it’s sometimes hard for most of us to stay motivated.
A counseling professional at Mississippi State says true motivation has to be internal. Phillip Drumheller of the university’s Office of Counseling and Testing Services adds that, “While it’s possible for people to be externally motivated, a more lasting influence is how you feel about what you’re doing.”
Drumheller says goals set by others may not always reflect your personal values. “If you have set goals and are having trouble getting motivated, you should take a step back and evaluate your personal commitment to the goal,” he advises.
“Sometimes, not being able to accomplish a particular goal leads to finding a better one,” he observes. To reach personal goals, he suggests two initial mindsets: be flexible and remember that by not giving up, a commitment will pay off in the long run.
“Think of reaching your goal as you would a long-term investment strategy for the stock market,” he says. “There are little downs and ups, but in the end it is worth it.”
To stay motivated, Drumheller also recommends:
—Writing down goals and occasionally reviewing them to see if you are moving forward or neglecting certain goals.
—Setting small, short-term objectives that are part of accomplishing a larger goal. Look at these weekly or monthly to gauge your progress.
—Remember to maintain a long-term perspective and constantly remind yourself that a short-term fix is not equivalent to lifestyle change.