How To Bring Yourself To Do Something You Really Don’t Want To Do

How To Bring Yourself To Do Something You Really Don’t Want To Do

There may be times when you face tasks or challenges that seem daunting or downright unappealing. But don’t get discouraged – there are strategies to help you overcome that reluctance and tackle even the most dreaded tasks. So, let’s explore effective techniques to overcome resistance and achieve your goals.

1. Start with the Smallest Step.

When you’re facing a task you really don’t want to do, it can help to begin with the smallest, easiest step. This approach reduces the sense of overwhelm and gets you into action. For example, if you’re dreading cleaning your entire house, start by picking up just one room or even a single corner. Once you’ve completed that small task, you’ll find it easier to continue with the rest.

2. Set a Fun Reward.

Rewarding yourself is a great way to motivate action. Decide on a treat or something enjoyable you’ll allow yourself once the task is completed. It could be something simple like enjoying your favorite snack, watching an episode of your favorite show, or spending time doing a hobby you love. This reward becomes a positive incentive that makes the task more bearable.

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4. Find a Buddy.

Sometimes, tackling a task you don’t want to do is much easier when you have a friend to do it with you. It’s like having a partner in crime, and it can turn a chore into a social experience. You can chat, share the load, and even turn it into a fun activity together. Plus, you’ll hold each other accountable, making it less likely for either of you to procrastinate.

5. Turn on Some Tunes.

Music has a magical way of changing our mood and energy levels. Create a playlist of your favorite songs, ones that make you feel upbeat and motivated. Play this music while you work on the task you’re avoiding. The rhythm and melodies can help you stay focused and make the time pass more quickly.

6. Time Yourself.

Set a timer and challenge yourself to work on the dreaded task for a fixed amount of time. It’s like a game, where you’re racing against the clock. Knowing that you only have to endure the task for a specific period can make it seem less daunting. When the timer goes off, take a short break or reward yourself, and then you can decide if you want to continue or take another timed session.

7. Visualize the Finish Line.

Take a moment to close your eyes and visualize how it will feel once the task is completed. Imagine the sense of accomplishment, the relief, and the weight lifted off your shoulders. Visualization can help you connect with the positive emotions associated with completing the task, making it a more appealing prospect.

8. Break It Down.

When a task feels overwhelmingly large, break it into smaller, more manageable parts. Instead of trying to clean the entire house in one go, focus on cleaning one room at a time or even one specific task within a room. By breaking it down, you make progress more achievable and less intimidating.

9. Celebrate Progress.

Don’t wait until you’ve finished the entire task to celebrate. Acknowledge your achievements along the way. Completing even a portion of the task is progress, and you should take a moment to pat yourself on the back. This positive reinforcement can keep you motivated and moving forward.

10. Think About Future You.

Imagine your future self as a friend you care about. Doing the task you don’t want to do now is an act of kindness toward that future self. It’s like looking out for a friend’s well-being. By framing it this way, you can build a sense of responsibility and motivation to make things easier for your future self.

11. Make It a Game.

Turning a task into a game can inject some fun and motivation into it. Think of creative ways to challenge yourself within the task. Set clear rules, time limits, and rewards. For example, if you’re cleaning your home, time yourself to see how quickly you can tidy up each room, and then treat yourself to a favorite snack or a short break once you complete a room. This playful approach can make the task feel less like a chore and more like an enjoyable challenge.

12. Get Inspired.

When faced with a daunting task, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. To overcome this, seek inspiration from others who have triumphed over similar challenges. Look for success stories, watch motivational videos, or read books and articles about people who have accomplished tasks they initially didn’t want to do. Hearing about their journeys and how they conquered their obstacles can ignite your motivation and belief in your ability to succeed.

13. Set Clear Intentions.

Before diving into a task, take a moment to define your intentions. Ask yourself why this task matters and what you hope to achieve by completing it. Having a clear sense of purpose can make the task feel more meaningful and less like a burden. Write down your intentions if it helps, and refer back to them whenever you need a reminder of why you’re doing this.

14. Declutter Your Workspace.

If your task involves a physical space, don’t underestimate the power of decluttering and organizing your workspace. A tidy and organized environment can have a significant impact on your productivity and mindset. Take a few minutes to clear away any unnecessary items and create a clean, uncluttered workspace. It will help you focus better and make the task seem less daunting.

15. Use Positive Self-Talk.

Pay attention to your inner dialogue as you tackle the task. Negative self-talk can be a significant barrier to progress. Whenever you catch yourself thinking negatively or doubting your abilities, consciously replace those thoughts with positive and empowering affirmations. Remind yourself of past successes and your capability to handle challenges. Positive self-talk can boost your confidence and keep you motivated throughout the task.

16. Practice Mindfulness.

Mindfulness techniques can be incredibly helpful when dealing with tasks you’d rather avoid. Practice staying present in the moment, focusing your attention on the task at hand. Techniques like deep breathing or short meditation sessions can help you stay calm and centered, making it easier to engage with the task without feeling overwhelmed by thoughts of its difficulty or monotony.

17. Remember, You’ve Got This.

Lastly, remind yourself that you’re more capable than you think. Reflect on past challenges you’ve overcome. You’ve faced difficulties before, and this task is just another hurdle. Confidence in your abilities can be a powerful motivator, reminding you that you can handle this task, too.

Gail is Bolde's social media and partnership manager, as well as an all-around behind-the-scenes renaissance woman. She worked for more than 25 years in her city's local government before making the switch to women's lifestyle and relationship sites, initially at HelloGiggles before making the switch to Bolde.
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