Finish what you start
Finish what you start
Finish what you start
What stops us from finishing everything we start? Sometimes we realise the project isn't valuable.
Sometimes another activity takes priority. But often we simply lose motivation to finish tasks that are important, interesting, enjoyable, valuable and vital to our success.
Why does this happen?
According to Steve Levinson and Pete Greider, authors of "Following Through - A revolutionary new model for finishing whatever you start" the human brain is wired in such a way that it is difficult for us to finish certain projects.
We convince ourselves that we SHOULD be able to finish what we start because the justifications are so good e.g. we should go to the gym because it's so good for us; we finish that report because we promised it would be done by tomorrow, we should make that phone call because it's the most important item on the "to do" list.
However, motivation is much more complicated than that. The brain is wired to be more convinced by immediate pay off and most of these justifications pay off tomorrow, next week, next month or even in 20 years.
What now?
It is possible to use the brain's wiring to help us follow through…but it may mean doing the right thing for the "wrong" reasons. Here are some motivation strategies Steve Levinson and Pete Greider suggest:
1. Spotlighting
Sometimes we just need a reminder to do what we've committed to do e.g. Make a particular daily phone call. Set up a system to remind you to do these things (an elastic band around the wrist, although basic, works wonders!).
2. Willpower Leveraging
We all have a little willpower, but probably less than we think. Use what you have to greatest effect by putting yourself in a position that makes it difficult to do the "wrong" thing. E.g. ask a colleague to check in on you at the end of the day to ensure you have done a particular task. If you are the kind of person who doesn't like to look bad in front of others, this will motivate you to finish the project.
3. Create Compelling Reasons
Sometimes the "right" reason to do something isn't the most motivating reason. So, while the right reason to keep your promise and hand that report in on time is that you said you would, a more compelling reason might be that when you meet a deadline you buy something nice for yourself! Design a strategy that will motivate you, even if you end up doing the "right" thing for the "wrong" reason.
4. Right Before Wrong
E.g. If you really want ice cream but you know you should have carrot sticks have the carrot sticks first. If you still want the ice cream afterwards that's fine. However you might find you don't want it after all. Adapt this analogy to your working life!
5. Strike While The Iron Is Hot
When you have the thought, take the action. E.g. you suddenly remember to make that important phone call. Instead of delaying, do it NOW while the iron is hot!
