What to do when you lose your Motivation
Recently 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 permanent level of motivation in stroke survivors’ journeys.
The reaction from the readers was very heartening and it was clear that the points I made had a degree of appeal and relevance.
As a fellow stroke survivor, this was very pleasing.
However, on my urban safari this morning \{my 90-minute morning walk\} I ruminated about another aspect of this topic, e.g.- what do I do when I notice that the vigour that I started with was slowly starting to diminish, the daily rehab routine was beginning to become a drudge.
In short, Fellow Stroke Survivors and Time Travellers, the flame of motivation was starting to flicker and lose its strength
DO NOT GIVE UP HELP IS AT HAND!!!
In any activity, particularly stroke rehab this feeling is quite common. Many of us have felt this loss of motivation, especially when climbing out of a warm bed on a winters morn to go for a walk.
So, My Fellow Time Travellers I have put together some tips that you might find useful to help you regain your motivation Mojo so you can carry on and reach that your 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’
Review Your original reason-Remember why you wanted to get motivated or reach that goal in the first place.
Focus on Your Past Success – Think about what worked for you before and how you can use those tools again
Seek out a mentor[s] – 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
Stroke Foundation of Australia Support Group -Join a Stroke Foundation of Australia Support Group. These are located across Australia. Here is the link to the Foundation’s Website.
Home — Stroke Foundation - Australia
You will 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 message to Stroke Survivors-If you need help just ask
My Message to Stroke Clinicians – If you see your survivor wilting – Be Pro-Active and Ask if they need your Help
Worked for me!!
Happy Trails,
Brian A Beh,Stroke Survivor
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.