When Motivation Weakens So You Procrastinate Tasks, Here's Expert Advice for Overcoming It

Illustration of expert suggestions to overcome the weakening motivation (Freepik/Yakalya)

YOGYAKARTA – Motivation is weakening makes you look lazy, this needs to be straightened out according to expert opinion. The reason is, Southern Illinois-based psychotherapist Jennifer Gerlach, LSCW., there is always a reason for everything. When you are lazy about taking a shower after coming home from work in the evening, this cannot be described as laziness about taking a shower. But maybe because of a bad mood or for other reasons.

Even if you have difficulty enjoying good things, it can definitely be caused by other things. Gerlach explained that motivation may also weaken because you feel there is no point if you complete a task. This means that you may lose your values ​​and goals and feel adrift. If you experience this, Gerlach's advice is that you need to know where you are going and what values ​​you have so that the task feels meaningful. This method can be done by writing in a journal about things that are important to you.

Weakening motivation is also often experienced by someone who is a perfectionist. Ironically, many perfectionists criticize themselves in the hope of improving their performance. Perfectionism creates fear that can be demoralizing. So it is important to find ways to rise above imperfections that trigger procrastination and giving up. The way to do this, suggests Gerlach, is to identify the critical voice from within. Move toward compassionate self-talk and don't beat yourself up.

Illustration of expert advice for overcoming weakened motivation (Freepik/luis_molinero)

If motivation weakens because you don't know which task to start completing, it may disrupt focus and take longer to complete. Gerlach's suggestion is to overcome these executive function difficulties by making a plan. You can also find an assistant to help you stay on track or find out which strategy suits you.

The fourth reason someone delays completing a task could be because of loneliness. According to Psychology Today, Monday, September 11, humans are social creatures who need to feel connected to other people. When these needs are not met, it will affect motivation. So try to open up and reconnect with new or old friends to build motivation again.

For weak motivation due to low energy despite getting enough sleep, you may need to contact your doctor. Even though there are actually many influencing factors, a doctor can provide appropriate advice. Apart from that, start identifying your lifestyle patterns. Starting from regular sleeping hours, getting quality sleep, and exercising regularly.