What to do when your Motivation wanes…
Some time ago I wrote a blog titled “My Plain English Guide to Motivation” which outlined, as the title suggests a simplistic way of generating and importantly maintaining a sustained level of motivation in mine and other stroke survivors’ rehab journeys.
The reaction from the readers was, at the time, very heartening and it was clear that the points I made had a degree of appeal and relevance. This subject of motivation came into my head recently, when I paid my three-monthly visits to Hussain, my podiatrist at the Revesby Medical Centre to enact running repairs to the battered soles of my feet.
However, on my urban safari recently \{my 5.30 am morning walk\} I again ruminated about another aspect of this topic, e.g.- what do I do when if I notice that the vigor that I started with was slowly starting to diminish, the daily rehab routine was beginning to become a drudge, those inclines in the path were getting harder to navigate.
In short, Fellow Stroke Survivors and Time Travellers, my flame of motivation was starting to flicker and lose its strength.
Do not despair, the Rehab Cavalry is on its way!
In any activity, particularly stroke rehab, this feeling I can only assume is quite common. Many of us have felt this loss of motivation, especially when, for example, climbing out of a warm bed on a winter's morn to go for a walk in a deserted neighborhood.
So, Thrill Seekers and Fellow Time Travellers I have put together some tips that you might find useful to help you regain your motivational Mojo so you can carry on and reach your rehab goal.
Here goes-
Review your goal[s]
Why not review your original goals and see if they are realistic in the timeframe that you have set. Are they too big, or are they unrealistic?
You may need to break your overall goal down further into smaller and more achievable goals. Also have a look at the time frame you set yourself.
Please discuss your goal/timeframe with your stroke clinician if necessary- they are ‘another set of eyes’
Focus on Your Past Successes.
Think about what worked for you before and how you can use those tools again. You can draw strength and confidence from these things that have worked for you in your past. I have done that often n not only through my rehab but throughout my corporate career.
Seek out a Mentor or Rehab Buddy.
A mentor is someone who has experienced or has been in a comparable situation to you. Through talking with them about your stroke experience they may be able to help you get back on the rehab bike. A Buddy who can be part of your rehab can be helpful also.
Join a Stroke Support Group.
These are located across Australia.Details of their location are located on the Stroke Foundation's website. You will have the opportunity to meet other stroke survivors who are very welcoming, helpful and are able [and eager] to assist you.
Mix with Positive People.
Surround yourself with positive people, positive friends and family who will also help to manage your motivation.
Take motivation from others.
Gather inspiration by reading a book, talking to your mentor, friends or family who have had similar experiences to you and reached similar goals to the ones you have set.
Sometimes you just need to take a break and start afresh.
My Key Message. to Stroke Survivors-If you need help just ask.
My Key message to Stroke Clinicians- If you see your survivor wilting – Be Pro-Active and Ask if they need your Help
Brian A Beh - a Stroke Survivor.
A Proud member of the I-REBOUND CAG.
Lifelong Member of the Hopalong Cassidy Fan Club
Poet, Philosopher and Child of the Cosmos
Winner "Improving Life After Stroke’' Category
Stroke Foundation of Australia 2021 National Awards.
&
Inaugural Chair, Consumer & Community Advisory Group
The George Institute for Global Health - Australia.