For enthusiasm Remind yourself why you need to do something and how getting it done will help you. “I’m going to have fun running outside in the sunshine because it is good for my physical and mental health.” “When I finish filing these taxes, I can move on to something more fun like painting that new canvas.” “If I finish this report, I can leave work early and get that new book I’ve been dying to read.” For time management Setting a schedule for yourself (with necessary breaks) will help big tasks seem easier, manage stress, and keep you on task. “I’m going to work for an hour, take a 15 minute walk to clear my mind, and then work for another hour.” “I’m going to write 3 pages now, go to class, proofread during my 20 minute break, and then write the last 2 pages tonight.” “If I read 42 pages each day I can finish the book by Saturday.” For fun Make any daunting task fun by including friends and peers or adding something you enjoy to the process. “I’ll listen to my favorite new album while I lay out this design template.” “I’m going to ask Collin to come over so we can play charades in spanish to help us study for the vocabulary test.” “I’m going to join a hip hop class so I can have fun while getting a workout.” For inspiration Say these mantras out loud to yourself or write them down and place them where you can see them. “Don’t wish for it. Work for it.” “Our intentions create our reality.” “You miss 100% of the shot you don’t take.” “You can find an excuse or you can find a way.” “Action conquers fear.” “Excellence doesn’t require perfection.” “If you want to achieve greatness, stop asking for permission.” “Better an oops than a ‘what if’.” “Great things don’t come from comfort zones.”