Regaining Motivation
In Season 1, Episode 5 we discuss insights on regaining motivation for those of us running small businesses or engaging in creative practices. If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uninspired lately, you’re not alone. Let's dive into some strategies to help you get back on track.
Acknowledging the Struggle
Being a creative entrepreneur or small business owner comes with its own set of challenges, and sometimes, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. If you’ve been showing up every day, even in the smallest of ways, know that you're making a difference, and that’s something to be proud of. Whether you’re navigating periods of change or dealing with everyday obstacles, your resilience is commendable.
Why Motivation Fades
When it comes to losing motivation, there are usually several underlying factors. To pinpoint the exact cause, consider asking yourself these questions:
Does my business or creative endeavor still align with me?
Am I producing work that I still love?
Am I enjoying the process of what I am doing?
Is there something specific impacting my mental space and creative flow?
Am I burnt out or feeling overwhelmed?
Am I trying to do too much myself?
Depending on your answers, the approach to regaining your motivation might differ. Let's break down how to tackle these scenarios.
Reconnecting with Your Creative Passion
If you find yourself resonating with questions one to three, it might be time to reassess your creative direction. Over time, what once inspired you may no longer bring the same joy or fulfillment. Here’s how to rediscover your passion:
Reflect on Your Why: Why did you start your business or creative journey? Go back to the beginning and reconnect with what drew you in.
Explore New Inspirations: Look at creatives in your field who inspire you. What do they offer that excites you? Use this as inspiration to evolve your work.
Stay Authentic: Make sure that you’re creating something that aligns with your true self. Authenticity is key to long-term motivation.
Organising Your Space for Success
A cluttered workspace can lead to a cluttered mind. If your environment is holding you back, it's time for a tidy-up. Creating a space that you enjoy working in can significantly boost your productivity. Here are some tips:
Declutter and Organise: Invest in storage solutions, such as plastic containers and labelled folders. A clean space can lead to clearer thinking.
Create a Dedicated Workspace: If possible, designate a specific area in your home for your creative work. Even a small corner can make a huge difference.
Inspire Your Space: Add elements that make your workspace enjoyable—artwork, plants, or personal touches that lift your spirits.
Battling Burnout
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or burnt out, it's essential to break things down into manageable tasks. Here are some strategies to help ease the load:
Prioritise Your Tasks: Focus on the most critical tasks for the month and break them down into weekly goals.
Use Planning Tools: Tools like planners, calendars, and apps like Notion or Evernote can help you stay organised and reduce the chaos.
Consider Outsourcing: If you're wearing too many hats, think about hiring help, even if it’s just for a few hours a week. A virtual assistant can handle some of the administrative tasks that drain your energy.
Taking a Break
Sometimes the best thing you can do for your motivation is to take a break. It’s okay to step back for a week or two to recharge. Let your clients and audience know that you’re taking time off, so you can return refreshed and ready to tackle your creative projects with renewed energy.
Final Thoughts: Motivation is a Cycle
Remember that motivation isn’t a constant—it ebbs and flows. It's entirely normal to experience these ups and downs, especially as a creative or small business owner. Allow yourself to experience these cycles, and when you feel unmotivated, use these strategies to get back on track.
If you found these tips helpful, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m always here to support fellow creatives on their journey. DM us on @thecreativestoolkit or @courageouscreativespodcast.
Stay inspired, and let’s make those creative dreams happen!
