How can I feel more motivated about work?
Your question
Since I’ve had my child I’ve felt demotivated at work and alienated from my colleagues as none of them have children. I’ve always wanted to work for myself and two members of my family have suggested we start an online business together. I was initially excited but now I lack the drive to move it forward. How do I decide what to do and fix this lack of motivation?
Our answer
First and foremost you need to be clear about what you want from your working life. Don’t fall into the trap of starting a business that is someone else’s dream and passion, but not your own.
Six tips to help rediscover your work mojo
Here are some of my tried and tested tips on how to rediscover your mojo at work.
1) Have a long-term vision
When you look back on your life in years to come what do you want to be proud of or remembered for? Work out what is important for you over the long term not just at this period in time.
2) Build some momentum
Get momentum back into your career decisions by setting yourself some short, medium and long-term goals.
For example your three month goal could be to find clarity on career direction and research some job options, whereas your nine month goal could be to do a new role that fulfills you and fits around the family.
3) Find out what really floats your boat
Work out what gives you a buzz in the world of work… what would make you feel fulfilled and motivated? Is it doing something worthwhile, having autonomy or being an expert, for example? If you aren’t sure, contact me as I have a great career tool that will help you identify this in no time at all!
4) Identify your key skills
Being happy at work is strongly linked to playing to your natural strengths and skill-set. So think about which roles would use the skills that you are good at and above all enjoy using.
5) Be honest with yourself
Try to be honest about why you are retreating from ideas. Is it the fear factor or lack of confidence? If so, then you should tackle this head on with some support such as 1-2-1 coaching.
If it’s something else – for example, you aren’t convinced about the business idea – then think through what research you would need to do to make a sound decision.
6) Carve out some ‘me time’
Finally, take a break – have a bit of downtime to recharge your batteries – this can often give you much needed clarity of thought.
Ask a friend to have the kids so you can enjoy a couple of child-free hours, organise a girly spa day or just be ‘you’ for a few hours sitting in a café relaxing. Sometimes we lose our zing at work because we are tired, stressed or feeling down and we need to lighten our load.
Answered by our monthly career agony aunt Fiona Clark from Inspired Mums. If you have a question you’d like Fiona to answer, please email her or call her on 07789 597209. If you feel you’ve lost your sense of career direction or lack confidence, contact Fiona to find out how 1-2-1 coaching can help.
Need more advice? Download Inspired Mums’ free e-book For mums stuck in a career rut – 8 steps to finding work you love on their website. You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter.
