Let's talk motivation! 5 tips on creating a motivational bunker at work

You see the funny thing about motivation is that it truly has to come from within. Others can #motivAIDE you but only you can #mivate yourself! (That cute play on words comes from the book SHIFT by Gary Keller, Jay Papasan, and Dave Jenks).

If you start with that awareness, then the next step is figuring out how to turn your work space into your own motivational bunker. It doesn't matter if you work from home, at a cubicle, or at a formal office... hell even if you mainly work in your car (as many of my Realtor friends do), there's always still small things you can do to help keep your spirits up when you need that extra push. Here's a few:

1. Leave affirmational notes or reminders around your office, phone screen, car visor, etc.

For example, on my desk (eye level BEHIND my laptop) I have a note that reminds me to ask myself "What things fill my cup?". This helps me remain intentional with who and what I'm spending time on.

2. Decorate and make it "homey".

This may sound silly but even a couple small pieces of personal items can help remind you that you are MORE than your job/career. You have an entire life waiting for you at the end of the workday. In my office I have a rosary and a couple faith-based paintings. In my car I have a pair of mini boxing gloves designed with the Haitian flag . These little touches remind me of who I am and the strength within me on tougher days.

3. Have a couple special items in your space to remind you of your *WHY*.

On my window sill is a photo of my husband and I at one

of our happiest moments, and on one of my walls is my vision board for how I want my #bestlife to look, so that it always stays in my heart.

4. Keep love notes from others to help lift you up when you need it.

In the first picture above you see an entire window FULL of cards and letters from my #highvibetribe... seeing the cards displayed is enough to make me smile and if I need an extra pick me up I can grab a couple and read through the notes that my friends across the country have written for me. Borrow others' #belief in you and your abilities, when your belief in yourself may be running low.

5. Keep a journal handy.

Sometimes we just need to release the negative thoughts and worry, but aren't ready to say them out loud. Having a journal close by can help you to write down the things weighing on you and just release them into a quiet private space. Journaling can also be used for the opposite purpose... start a #gratitudejournal for yourself where you can write down 3 things that you're grateful for each day. Be specific... try to keep it to things that have happened in the last 24-48 hours so that you are being very mindful to focus on recent positive things that have happened to you. Whether it's a notepad, pocket journal, or actual notebook... the idea is to just get yourself writing and enjoy the free flow of thought. You can even use the Notes app on your phone if that's easier. I love the ColorNote app personally and use it all the time! (#teamandroid, sorry not sorry lol)

I'd love to hear what are some ideas of how YOU keep yourself motivated at work? Share with other readers in the comments below. If you put any of these ideas into practice, please let me know as well and share a picture if it's not too personal for you to do so!