Q&A for How to Stay Motivated

Well, obviously you have to pursue your goals. You have to actually put the work in to achieve the things you want. If you're struggling to focus your energy, try just writing your goals down. Literally grab a pen and some paper and start writing out the things you want. This is one of the best ways to push your energy in a positive direction and reframe your focus.

It helps to remind yourself that your brain is in your body. The same way your arm can fall asleep, your brain can kind of wander off and focus on something else without warning. It helps to remember that there's consciousness outside of yourself. That's what wisdom is. It's the ability to tap into alternative perspectives to redirect your thoughts. So if you're at work and you start thinking, "I really want a chocolate bar or a snack," remind yourself, "No, I'm trying to lose weight," and stop that thought in its place.

Depression, anxiety, and negative thoughts can come out of nowhere sometimes. It helps to just fight those thoughts as hard as you can as soon as you get an inkling of a sense that negative energy is coming your way. It won't always work, but it can. Just tell yourself, "No. Stop. You are not welcome here. You are changing my thoughts. Go away." Sometimes this can just stop those subconscious feelings in their tracks.

Avoid adopting an all-or-nothing mentality or striving for perfection. Don't beat yourself up when you get off track. We're human and life happens. Rather than focusing on perfection, ask yourself what you plan to do when you mess up and how you plan on bouncing back. Try to make changes in the form of small, sustainable habits.