Lack of Motivation? Here are 8 Baby Steps for Finding Your Fire by Mike Blankenship of Get Your Gusto Back
Optimal Living Daily - Personal Development and Self-Improvement Podcast Recap
Published:
Duration: 10 min
Summary
Mike Blankenship outlines eight simple steps to overcome a lack of motivation. These steps focus on taking small actions, like drinking water or doing jumping jacks, to build momentum and rekindle your sense of motivation.
What Happened
Mike Blankenship emphasizes that motivation is often elusive when you're feeling down, and suggests that trying to force motivation can be as ineffective as trying to jump higher with an injured leg. Instead, he advocates for taking 'baby steps' to regain control and feel more motivated.
One of the first steps he recommends is drinking a large glass of water. Dehydration is common and can lead to symptoms like sleepiness and lack of energy. A survey showed that 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated, often without realizing it.
Another step is to read motivational quotes. Blankenship provides several quotes from figures like Arianna Huffington and Elon Musk, which can help shift your mindset and inspire you to take action.
Exercise, even in small amounts, is another effective way to lift your spirits. Blankenship suggests doing just five jumping jacks to create emotional momentum since movement affects your mood positively.
Taking a shower is another simple yet effective step. It can improve circulation, clear your mind, and give you a sense of control over your day. This can act like a reset button for your mood.
Blankenship also suggests writing down your thoughts, which can help you process emotions and diminish negative thinking. Journaling can provide clarity and perspective when you're feeling discouraged.
Reading affirmations is another recommended step. After completing several of the previous actions, affirmations can reinforce positive feelings and help you feel more in control of your day.
Finally, Blankenship advises preparing for future moments of discouragement. Emotions are like ocean waves, coming and going, and it's important to have strategies in place to handle them effectively when they arise.
Key Insights
- Mike Blankenship suggests that motivation can be regained through 'baby steps' rather than trying to force it through large actions. This approach is likened to healing a 'bum leg' rather than trying to jump higher immediately.
- A survey cited by Blankenship indicates that 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated, which can lead to symptoms like sleepiness and lack of energy. Drinking a glass of water can be a simple first step to improving motivation.
- Exercise, even in small amounts like five jumping jacks, can create emotional momentum and improve mood. This is based on the idea that 'motion creates emotion,' a concept supported by personal development coach Tony Robbins.
- Writing down thoughts can help manage emotions and reduce the impact of negative thinking. Blankenship notes that journaling provides clarity and perspective, making it a powerful tool for overcoming discouragement.
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