Everyone feels down at some point, but sometimes, it can be hard to shake off those feelings and rediscover your motivation. Many teenagers struggle with this aspect of mental health because they’re constantly confronted with changes and challenges that destabilize their sense of self. If they suffer from mental health concerns, like depression or anxiety, self-motivation becomes even more difficult. Fortunately, there are some simple strategies you can use to motivate yourself and get back on track.
If you’re looking for self-motivation tips to get yourself back on the right track, check out these motivational tips for teens from the team at Ascend.
Why Self-Motivation Matters
Self-motivation is crucial for achieving success, reaching goals, and overcoming obstacles. When you motivate yourself, you have the energy and drive to take action toward a variety of desired outcomes without relying on outside influences. On the other hand, without motivation, you might feel stuck, which can lead to negative thoughts, feelings of anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness. Learning self-motivation tips can help anyone overcome these feelings and stop a downward spiral that only gets harder and harder to escape.
Five of the Most Effective Motivational Tips for Teens
1. Set Small & Achievable Goals
When you set small and achievable goals, you’re more likely to accomplish them, which can boost your motivation and confidence. Start by setting a few small goals for the day, such as:
- Finishing homework
- Reading a chapter in a book
- Making a new friend
Every time you achieve a goal, give yourself time for celebration and congratulation to acknowledge the accomplishment before moving forward.
2. Practice Positive Self-Talk
Your thoughts and beliefs can have a big impact on your motivation and mood. Whenever you notice negative self-talk, try to replace it with positive affirmations. Say things like:
- “I can do this”
- “I’m capable of achieving my goals”
- “I’ve accomplished difficult tasks in the past, I can do this again”
- “I am a strong person”
However, you don’t always have to motivate yourself. Seeking positive support from others can help bolster and validate your search for confidence.
3. Find Inspiration from Others
Sometimes, you can motivate yourself by finding inspiration in others who have achieved success or faced challenges. Look for positive role models in your life, such as family members, teachers, or coaches. You can also find inspiration in books, movies, or websites that share stories of motivation and resilience.
4. Take Care of Your Physical Health
Your physical health can also impact how you’re feeling mentally. Make sure to eat a healthy diet, get enough sleep, and engage in physical activity. A mental health routine is essential to ensuring every part of you is ready to perform.
If you don’t enjoy traditional exercise, you can also find fun and creative ways to get your body moving and motivate yourself. Try a virtual yoga class, a dance video game, or a walking club.
5. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a technique that helps you focus on the present moment to reduce stress and anxiety. Practicing mindfulness through meditation, deep breathing, or yoga is a great motivational tip for teens because it can calm the mind and minimize negative thoughts. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take 5–10 minutes to practice mindfulness and recenter yourself.
Reach Out to Ascend for Teen Mental Health Treatment
Hopefully, these self-motivation tips can help you succeed. But if you’re still struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges which disrupt your motivation, it may be time to seek professional help. At Ascend, our teen residential treatment centers offer individualized mental health treatment for teens. Our compassionate and experienced staff can help you motivate yourself and learn strategies to improve your mental health and well-being.
Contact us today by calling 310.388.3713 or reach out to our team online to learn more about our teen programs and services.
