Momentum
Keep On Keeping On…
Have you ever felt that surge of buzzing energy, that full-body excitement that propels you into taking action?
That feeling is motivation - the spark, the initial push that gets us started. I love that feeling of bustling excitement, endless creativity, and idealistic potential that fuels the first steps toward a goal. The feeling that everything is possible - it’s exhilarating. But like most people, somewhere along the way, that initial surge begins to simmer.
So, what happens when the excitement fades and the motivation isn’t as strong ?
Enter momentum.
Like in physics, where momentum is defined by both its magnitude (the energy behind it) and its direction (the path it’s moving along), momentum in life is a force that drives us forward. It’s not just about how fast we are going - it’s about where we are headed. Momentum is about continuous movement forward.
Just like an object’s momentum can be altered by external forces (like friction or a change in direction), our momentum can shift depending on where we focus our energy. If your direction starts to feel off, or your momentum feels like it might be slowing down, it might be time to reconnect with your initial goals and realign your focus.
Maintaining Momentum
Once you’ve got momentum, the goal is to keep it alive. Momentum doesn’t need to be a constant, overwhelming rush of energy. Instead, it’s about sustaining forward movement, no matter how small. Just like in physics, objects in motion stay in motion unless acted upon by an outside force, momentum in life can keep you moving forward as long as you stay consistent and true to your direction.
Some ways that may help keep momentum going:
Simplify Larger Goals
Break down big tasks into smaller, more achievable steps. Each small win creates the energy needed to accomplish the next task. Progress doesnt have to be fast, it just has to keep moving forward. Smaller steps can help with making tasks more achievable. Each small win can create the energy to accomplish the next task.
Create Sticky Habits
Consistency is key. Good habits bring you closer to accomplishing your goal by ensuring you are in a forward direction. Habits are the steady force that push you even when motivation dips.
Track Your Wins
Note your progress, no matter how small. Tracking wins help reinforce forward momentum and reminds you of the progress made.
Momentum is not just about the rush of starting - it’s about the ability to continue moving forward, especially when there might be friction or the initial excitement fades. Like Newton’s Cradle, where each ball in motion causes the others to keep moving, your momentum has the potential to carry you forward when you keep consistent with action steps. Any movement forward, no matter how small, is movement in the right direction.
