Have you ever stopped to consider why it is that you are more motivated to take on certain tasks than others?
Sure, the boredom-interest factor has a lot to do with it. When a task is interesting to you, you can usually tackle it without a problem. But when the task is boring, getting started and following through can feel like torture.
That aside, however, what else affects your motivation?
Have you ever noticed that those "I should" goals never seem to get done, while the "I want to" goals usually do get done?
There's a good reason for this. The goals that you really want to accomplish are usually tied to a vision.
Here's a great example to illustrate the point. In just a few weeks, I'll be moving. The move requires that I purge a lot of junk, including the junk that is lurking in my hall closets. The reason that I want to get rid of this stuff now is that I want to move into the new house 100% clutter free. I have a vision of moving into - and living in - a new house that is clean and organized, and has lots of room and free space.
Now, I've been wanting to get rid of this junk in the closets for a long time, but I never got around to it. That's because prior to having this vision of life in my new home, cleaning out the closets to purge the junk wasn't really that important to me.
It was one more task on that to-do list. A should do, instead of a want to do.
What "should do" tasks can you let go of because they are just not that important to you?
And, more importantly, what visions do you need to develop more clearly right now?
Jennifer Koretsky is a Professional ADD Management Coach who helps adults manage their ADD and move forward in life. She encourages clients to increase self-awareness, focus on strengths and talents, and create realistic action plans. She offers a 90-day intensive skill-building program, workshops, and private coaching. Her work has been featured in numerous media, including The New York Times Magazine and The Times (UK). To subscribe to Jennifer’s free email newsletter, The ADD Management Guide, please visit http://www.addmanagement.com/e-newsletter.htm
