I use Alvin's method. I take a short list of really small, easy tasks and just sprint through them. Completing tasks always helps to improve motivation, so getting anything done will help lift the fog of low-motivation.
Another tactic I've started using for larger tasks is to set a timer for 50 minutes, and then to make sure I work at the task continuously for those 50 minutes. At the end, I get up and have a walk and some tea to let myself unwind. Having this reward at the end helps to keep me focussed.
The chances are that low-motivation is caused by having tasks that are too broad. It can be hard to visualise the completion of large tasks, so by breaking them into smaller chunks you can visualise a lot of mini-victories. Each of these adds to your motivation and sense of satisfaction, and helps you to complete the larger tasks much more easily. |