Finding Your Mojo: How to Keep Going When Motivation Dips
As the year winds down, the festive season rushes in, and life gets busier than ever, it’s easy to lose your momentum. Whether it’s staying active, eating well, smashing work deadlines, or training for a marathon, motivation can feel like it’s slipping away. Add cold, damp mornings and the pre-Christmas chaos, and your usual enthusiasm might be hibernating.
So how do you keep your mojo alive without forcing it? Here's how to reignite your spark when the going gets tough.
1. Reconnect with Your "Why"
Why did you set this goal? Whether it’s feeling amazing in your body, building a business, or simply showing up for yourself, your "why" is the fuel that keeps you going. Write it down or create a visual reminder to keep it front and centre when your energy wanes.
2. Celebrate the Small Wins
When life feels overwhelming, big goals can feel unreachable. Break things down into bite-sized actions. Maybe it’s a short strength session instead of a long workout, meal prepping for two days instead of a week, or even just ticking one thing off your to-do list. These little wins create momentum and remind you that progress—no matter how small—matters.
3. Shake Up the Routine
Monotony kills mojo. If your usual approach feels uninspiring, try something new. Swap your running route for a strength training circuit, update your playlist, or explore a nourishing seasonal recipe. Newness sparks excitement, even for things you’re not currently loving.
4. Don’t Let Perfection Be the Enemy
Sometimes we feel stuck because we think, "If I can’t give 100%, why bother?" But consistency isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up in some way, even if it’s just 10%. A quick stretch, a healthy breakfast, or 10 minutes of fresh air can shift your mindset and keep the habit alive.
5. Lean Into Seasonal Self-Care
Instead of resisting winter, embrace its gifts. Start your day with a warming herbal tea, light a candle for cosy evenings, or layer up and enjoy the brisk outdoors. The key is to focus on what feels good in this season rather than wishing for easier days. Strength training is a great fit for winter—it’s effective, energising, and can be done indoors!
6. Be Kind to Yourself
Remember that motivation ebbs and flows—it’s natural. If you’re not at your peak, it doesn’t mean you’re failing. Allow yourself to rest, recharge, and come back stronger. Progress happens over time, not all at once.
7. Get Accountability and Support
Sometimes all it takes is a nudge from a friend, coach, or group. Share your goals with someone who’ll encourage you or join a community where you feel supported. Motivation often grows when shared.
8. Visualise the Payoff
Picture yourself six months from now, looking back at how you showed up during this challenging season. Whether it’s crossing the finish line, feeling calm through the holidays, or maintaining your wellbeing, holding onto the end result can spark just enough energy to keep you going.
9. Mix Rest with Action
Balance is everything. Winter is naturally a slower season, so use it to recharge while keeping a gentle rhythm of action. Alternate active days with slower ones, ensuring you’re not burning out or giving up entirely.
Whatever your current goals—whether it’s smashing your training, building a business, or just staying steady through a busy season—know that losing your mojo is a temporary phase, not a permanent state. With small adjustments and a bit of self-compassion, you’ll find your spark again.
Remember, energy doesn’t come from doing it all perfectly; it comes from doing it your way.