When it comes to getting started on a project or task, we often just need a quick boost of motivation. A burst of energy can push us past the starting line and from there we are good to go.

However, if you solely rely on these little tricks every time, you may get stuck in the rut of procrastination. Gimmicks don’t always work.

For motivation strategies to work, you need a solid foundation.

Just like the foundation of a house, a foundation for your motivation provides the structure and base for everything else to work. The pipes, electrical lines, and cement are necessary for the fun light fixtures, and custom-made bathtubs. The walls provide the structure to hang your favorite pictures. Without the foundation, we couldn’t easily flip on a light or grab a glass of water. And our home would be no less than a heap of disorganized ideas.

So when your to-do list and calendar look like a cluttered mess and you don’t know where to begin, much less how to get started, consider your foundation… your healthy habits.

We all know that we need to eat healthy foods, move our bodies and get enough sleep. But too often we push these needs aside because we just need to get this task done. And then the next and the next and the next. Before you know it you are holed up in your office for 12 hours and eating junk. Sound familiar?

No wonder the motivation tricks aren’t working!  

Before you reach for the next quick fix, the next “getting started hack”, consider your healthy habits. Strengthen them. Focus on choosing healthy foods and moving your body each day. I promise that the time it takes to do this will save you time in the long run. You’ll get started more easily on that next task!

And for hacks that will help you develop some healthy habits, here you go…

Getting Started Hack #3: Eat a Healthy Snack! 

Feeling frustrated with your productivity? Check in with yourself – Did you forget to eat? This hack is beneficial for several reasons. First, you have to pause and check in with yourself. (Productivity happens after a pause.) Second, you end up moving your body, a natural energizer. And third, that healthy snack gives your body the energy it needs to refocus and get started on your next task. 

👉 More often than I would like to admit, I get into the flow of my day and forget to eat. When this happens, inevitably, I end up frustrated with myself because my brain is foggy and I can’t get started (or finish) a task. I’ve learned to check in with myself in these moments. Taking a quick break to eat a healthy snack provides me the boost I need to stop procrastinating. My favorite healthy snacks: a handful of almonds or a piece of fruit. Quick and easy, back on task in no time.

Get Started Hack #4: Go to Sleep!

Your body gives you a signal when it needs a rest. Too often, we ignore this! Feeling unfocused? Eyes drooping and irritated? You need rest! Walk away from the task and lie down for 15 minutes. A quick nap and you’ll be back to work in no time. You’ll end up saving time in the long run!

👉 I have a friend who is a pro at taking naps. She recognizes when she doesn’t get enough sleep the night before and schedules a twenty minute nap into her day. She dons her eye mask, grabs a light blanket and sets a timer. Twenty minutes later she’s re-energized and ready to go! Not quite at her level yet? No worries! When you notice yourself feeling drained or sleepy, take a nap then. With practice, you’ll start to notice this before you’ve wasted too much time.

Taking the time to create healthy habits may seem like a lot of work. And I’m not going to tell you that it isn’t work! It is! But it’s 100% worth it. With a solid foundation, the quick motivation hacks will work and everything will seem easier. 

Need support to create healthy habits and routines? I’d love to help you! Reach out and schedule a free Discovery Session!