We Can Do Hard Things: An Ode to Motivation
I am curious. What inspires you to do something you should do and you know is good for you, only… you really don’t want to do it?
That’s the way my twin and I felt a few days ago...we both knew we ought to walk; however, the day was exceedingly windy and gray in Edmond, Oklahoma (where my twin resides), and misty, gray, and chilly for me here in Vancouver, Washington.
We discussed and agreed that walking makes us feel physically and mentally great. Then, she and I reminisced about a particular walk that brought us joy, referring to a brisk walk along the Washougal, Washington Lewis and Clark Heritage Trail (Dike Trail). That particular morning was sunny and warm, and the scenic snow-covered Mt Hood in the background and the slow-moving Columbia River along the side made our beautiful nature walk complete.
A happy memory with my twin!
While the picture-perfect scenery and just-right weather conditions noted above were conducive by themselves to exercise outdoors, my twin and I felt the walk “together” was key despite the current weather.
So, she and I texted each other until ready to head out on our separate paths. We continued our cell phone chat until we arrived back at our respective homes. We felt grateful for our time together, a sense of relief for completing a highly meaningful physical activity, and the jump-start energy it produced for the rest of the day.
Musings on Motivation from a Professional Organizer (and Her Twin.)
Another favorite activity we share, along with walking, is identifying and discussing our perceived family’s (and clients’) organizing challenges.
Together, we identify these pressing issues: stacks of unread computer-printed articles, hundreds of unread books, an abundance of unused tools, hobby items, and multiples of different products located in the garage. Then, our brainstorming leads to possible and acceptable solutions for those involved.
Sometimes, just sharing ideas helps us figure out how to encourage others to begin or complete “put-off” actions like more physical activity or reducing large quantities of unused items from their homes.
Body Doubling for Motivation and Getting Started on a Task You Don’t Want to Do
An additional and helpful technique to try, and used by many Professional Organizers, is named “body doubling.” Body doubling is a productivity technique where a person works alongside someone else - either in person or virtually - to stay focused and accountable. The presence of another person, even if they are not actively participating in the same task, helps reduce distractions, increase motivation, and improve task completion.
If you don’t have someone available to sit next to you, try Merve, a popular body-doubling “study with me” YouTube channel. Merve offers a quiet study environment to work with her and motivate you to start, with ten-minute breaks every 50 minutes.
The body-doubling technique is especially beneficial for individuals with ADHD, as it provides external structure and helps with task initiation and follow-through. Body doubling is commonly used for work, studying, household chores, and organizing tasks.
How or what finally prompts you to start a task, project, or activity that you would otherwise avoid? I find the subject of motivation intriguing and would like to hear your thoughts about it if you care to do so.
About Cathy Sevier
Cathy Sevier has been helping people simplify their lives and get organized for over 16 years. As the founder of Scattered Possessions, she provides a compassionate and encouraging environment for clients facing their toughest organizational challenges. Known for her calm demeanor, patience, and kindness, Cathy helps her clients reclaim their time and focus on what matters most. You can learn more about Cathy here.