As we head into a new year, it’s the perfect time to set fresh goals, both personally and professionally. But let’s face it—staying motivated, especially when things get tough, can be a challenge. Whether you're dealing with workplace stress, a demanding project, or just the daily grind, finding the energy to stay focused and productive isn't always easy.
Fortunately, science has provided us with actionable strategies to stay motivated and on track, even before we hit a rough patch. In this blog, we’ll cover eight proven ways to maintain motivation, along with tips for managers and employees to keep that momentum going in the workplace.
1. Set Clear and Achievable Goals
The first step in staying motivated is to set goals that are both specific and realistic. When goals are too vague or overly ambitious, they can quickly lead to frustration and burnout. To stay on track, break down larger objectives into smaller, actionable steps. Each time you achieve one of these smaller milestones, your brain gets a hit of dopamine, which boosts motivation and helps you move forward.
For more on how to set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) goals, visit this guide.
2. Visualise Success
You can practice this visualisation technique by taking a few minutes each day to imagine how your success will feel. Visualisation techniques can also improve performance under pressure. Learn more about the benefits of visualisation here.
3. Use the “Two-Minute Rule”
When faced with a big or daunting task, it’s easy to procrastinate. The “two-minute rule” is a simple but effective strategy to help you get started. The idea is to break down your task into something that can be completed in two minutes or less. Once you’ve started, you’ll often find it easier to keep going.
This method is particularly useful in the workplace, where tasks can pile up quickly. By tackling small actions, you gain momentum, and that leads to completing larger tasks. For more strategies on fighting procrastination, check out this resource.
4. Focus on Your Why
When times get tough, it's easy to lose sight of why you're putting in the effort. By reconnecting with your “why”—the deeper purpose behind your goals—you can reignite your motivation. Whether it’s advancing in your career, providing for your family, or achieving personal growth, focusing on your purpose can help you push through challenges.
Employers can help by encouraging employees to align their personal values with the company’s mission, fostering a sense of shared purpose. Discover how finding purpose at work improves motivation here.
5. Practice Self-Compassion
Being too hard on yourself when things get tough can quickly lead to burnout. Practicing self-compassion—recognising that setbacks are a normal part of the process—helps you maintain resilience. When you approach challenges with a growth mindset and self-kindness, you’re more likely to stay motivated and bounce back from difficulties.
Managers can foster this mindset in the workplace by promoting a culture of psychological safety, where employees feel supported and encouraged to learn from mistakes. Learn more about how self-compassion can boost workplace motivation here.
6. Create a Supportive Environment
Your surroundings play a significant role in maintaining motivation. A cluttered or disorganised workspace can lead to distractions and decreased productivity. Make sure your environment supports your goals by organising your workspace, eliminating distractions, and surrounding yourself with positive influences.
Employers can support this by fostering a healthy, organised work environment and providing resources like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to help employees manage stress and challenges. Explore more on how to create a supportive workplace environment here.
7. Celebrate Small Wins
When working on long-term goals, it’s easy to feel discouraged if progress seems slow. By celebrating small wins along the way, you reinforce positive behavior and maintain momentum. Whether it’s acknowledging the completion of a project milestone or simply recognising daily achievements, celebrating progress keeps motivation high.
Managers can play a key role by recognising and rewarding employee achievements, no matter how small. This practice fosters a positive, motivated team environment. Discover why celebrating small wins is critical for motivation here.
8. Leverage Accountability
Accountability is a powerful motivator. Whether it’s sharing your goals with a colleague, friend, or manager, knowing that someone is aware of your progress can help you stay on track. Regular check-ins or progress updates can provide the external push needed to stay motivated.
Managers can implement accountability structures by encouraging team collaboration and regular performance reviews. Learn how to build accountability into your work routine here.
How Motivation at Work Impacts Performance
Motivation isn’t just a personal issue—it directly affects workplace performance and overall business success. A motivated employee is more engaged, productive, and creative, which leads to better outcomes for both the individual and the organisation.
By incorporating scientifically proven motivation strategies, both employees and managers can foster a culture of productivity and resilience. Managers should prioritise creating a supportive, positive work environment where goals are clear, progress is celebrated, and employees feel connected to their “why". If employees are struggling with motivation or stress, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) can provide valuable mental health support. Learn more about how Acorn EAP can support your team here.
Final Thoughts
Staying motivated when work gets tough is no easy feat, but with the right tools and mindset, it’s possible to stay on track and achieve your goals. By setting clear goals, practicing self-compassion, and celebrating small wins, you can maintain momentum, even in challenging times.
If you or your employees need support in staying motivated or managing stress, Acorn EAP offers personalised programs designed to enhance workplace well-being. Discover how we can help your team thrive here.
