[ BACK TO ARTICLES ]
Push Your Own Motivation Buttons
by Steve Slaunwhite
Imagine that you're having a tough day. Things aren't going well. You're feeling drained and unmotivated. It’s hard to paint a smile on your face. And when you do, it looks more like a grimace.
Of course, we all have days like these from time to time.
The problem is, as a freelance copywriter, feeling unmotivated can seriously affect your ability to do all the things you need to do that day.
You may not feel like starting work on that new client project, (you know, the one that’s due in just a few days), or making those follow-up calls, or getting those pitch letters in the mail, or updating your website.
That's one of the challenges of being self-employed. When you feel unmotivated, often there’s no one else around to give you a lift. No colleagues to commiserate with. No boss to kick your you-know-what. You’re on your own.
So what do you do when you’re down in the dumps?
According to Steve Chandler, author of "100 Ways To Motivate Yourself", we all have personal motivation "ON" buttons that we can push at any time. We just have to know where those buttons are – and have them at our fingertips when we need them the most.
Do you feel inspired when you read a favorite newsletter or blog? Or upbeat when you hear a certain song on the radio? Or less stressed when you sip tea at a favorite cafe? Or energized when you listen to a particular coach or speaker on a CD recording?
"Make it a personal commitment to notice everything that pushes your buttons," says Chandler. "Make a note of everything that inspires you." Once you do, you’ll have a repertoire of ways to feel motivated anytime you want to.
For example, if you're working on a particularly tough writing gig, and you’re feeling, well – let's say less than enthusiastic – plug in a CD of your favorite music, pat your dog, or pick up the phone and chat with a close friend.
The point is to figure out what motivates you and then learn how to quickly turn that button on when you need it the most.
For example, I get a lift from reading inspiring passages from certain books. So I make sure I keep these within arms reach. I also have a few close colleagues I speak to (okay, complain to) by phone from time to time.
What are YOUR motivation buttons? If you don't know, find them. You can probably come up with a dozens ways to give yourself a boost anytime you need it.
And, as self-employed writers, we often need it. A lot.
[ BACK TO ARTICLES ]
|
and get the Copywriter's Success Kit — also free!
Your email will be used only to send the newsletter. You may unsubscribe anytime.
 "Steve is always number one in my book. A real copywriting expert."
· Bob Bly
 "Just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate the information you share. You've been so generous with your knowledge and I love that your tips are concrete and can be immediately put to use. I get several writing-related newsletters and yours is the most relevant to my business and the one I most look forward to receiving."
· Bonnie Ayers Namkung
 "You've inspired me as a copywriter. Just wanted to say thanks."
· Grant Pasay
 "Already a successful copywriter, my goal was to take my business to the next level. Steve Slaunwhite gave me the tips, secrets and inspiration I need to get there. I highly recommend his coaching..."
· Casey Demchak
|
