Real Self Motivation

We are all motivated by various things. Money, the lack of money, success, the sales manager, our spouse, or possibly money. However, for the most part these motivators are long term. What might one do to get motivated today, right now.

First of all, it is hard to get or stay motivated if there is no plan or goal. Have you established a goal for today? 10 cold calls? 50 mailing pieces? 5 call backs? 3 presentations? Research product ideas for 3 calls from yesterday? $500 in profit? Whatever the goals are, write them down. It is also a plus to have weekly, monthly, even annual goals on some of these quantifiable aspects of your sales effort.

So now that we know what the goals are, back to the original question. How do we motivate our slightly lazy selves to get going and get sales growing. Since we are in the motivation business, it would seem like this would be the easy part, but we all know it isn't.

I like to make the goal real personal. One that worked for me was the dessert incentive. I am a sweet fanatic. Dessert after lunch and dinner is mandatory. The deal I made with myself was that unless I hit my daily goal, no dessert. You might have your own very important evening desire. I can think of other things that could be used for this purpose other than dessert.

The same thing works with weekly or monthly goals. Do you need (want) a new all digital video recorder, maybe an upgrade on your Ipod, or a weekend in Palm Springs? Don't wait for your company to set up a contest or incentive. Do it for yourself. There is undoubtedly a makable number of dollars that you could earn next month that would justify rewarding yourself with the prize you desire. Set the goal. Set the prize. Go for it!