Motivation is not something you should learn or you can buy. Everyone struggles with staying motivated and reaching their goals. The reality is that refocusing, changing, or making a new start on something, no matter how small, is a big deal. But it's not impossible. With the right approach, you can definitely do it.

So how do you stay motivated and on track with your goal?

First, know your goal
Make sure the goal you are working for is something you really want, not just something that must be done. Ask yourself about the things you want to happen and then try to make it real. There must be something that you dream of, things that fascinate you. It's nice if you are completely honest with yourself and set the goals in the right way. Know your abilities and start working.

Make it specific
When you know what you want is a lot more easier to make it happen. Write all the ideas on your mind. Use some sketchbook, draw it if needed, or describe the potential reasons for that goal. It's easier to plan for and master a specific goal than a vague one. Make it specific by defining what you want to achieve.

Break it down
Making any change takes self-discipline. You need to pay constant attention so you don't get sidetracked. One way to make this easier is to break a big goal into small steps. Reaching frequent, smaller goals is something to celebrate. It gives you the confidence, courage, and motivation to keep running — or doing whatever it is you're aiming to do. So reward yourself.

Stay on Course
Once you've decided on your first set of goals, keep the process going by reviewing and updating your To-Do List on a daily basis. Periodically review the longer term plans, and modify them to reflect your changing priorities and experience. (A good way of doing this is to schedule regular, repeating reviews using a computer-based diary.)

Recommit to your goal if you slip up
If you slip up, don't give up. Forgive yourself and make a plan for getting back on track.
Pat yourself on the back for everything you did right. Don't beat yourself up, no matter how far off track you get. Most people slip up when trying to make a change — it's a natural part of the process. Writing down daily tasks and mini-goals helps here too. By keeping track of things, you'll quickly recognize when you've slipped up, making it easier to refocus and recommit to your goal.

Share with a friend
Someone's ideas can be very inspirational. Don't hesitate to talk with your close friends about your work, your goal. Ask for their opinion and the get your own.

Don't Give Up!
Finding the motivation to do it isn't necessarily easy, but it is always possible. You can stay motivated by writing down your goals, sticking to your schedule, and reminding yourself of what led you to set your goal in the first place. Change is exciting — we'd all be very bored without it.