While almost everyone has the motivation to pursue activities daily, some of us have to struggle. Somehow, some can't find that necessary inner zeal to be productive. Do you sometimes find yourself in a rut? Have you lost that spark in the morning to start the day?

What are some practical strategies to keep yourself motivated?

Schedule activities

Scheduling your activities should help invigorate your day. But you have to schedule not just things you love doing but also those that need to be done. What do you want to do first - pleasurable activities or boring ones? Tough choice.

At work, some parts of your job may not be interesting but you are still expected to do them. The strategy here is to commit on completing the required work regardless of how unexciting they may seem. You may start with the more monotonous activities and later reward yourself with what you love to do.

If your work has turned dull and routine, identify what you love most about your job and focus on doing it many times a day. You can still make your job interesting and fun if you perform what you enjoy.

But after work and on weekends, I suggest that most part of your day should revolve around what you love. Fill your day with activities that make you feel better. And delegate those you hate.

Set goals

What are your short-term and long-term goals? What do you want to accomplish in two weeks? How about in two years? What do you want to become? Do you want to finish a course or complete a carpentry project? Goals can guide your present and future endeavors and give you a glimpse of your desired destination.

Every day, do at least three things that can help you achieve your goals. For instance, if you want to achieve and maintain a certain body weight, you can set three goals. First, eating three small meals and snacks in between; second, exercising regularly by walking or running; and third, reducing high caloric foods such as ice-cream and chocolates.

Think of your goals before going to bed and on waking up. Even in your sleep, you can dream about the wishes of your heart. Apart from motivating you, goals can help you focus and avoid distractions.

Use motivators

Does soft music stimulate you? Or does rock or disco music provide that energetic push? Does listening to motivational speeches give you the urge to complete your project? Does picturing the outcome helps you roll-up your sleeves? Do books inspire every cell and tissue? Use motivators to awaken the sleepy soul within you. Music, exercise, or hobbies should begin that flicker of light within.

If despite these motivators, you remain bored and sluggish, do one thing - be active!

Most people believe that motivation should always precede action. But in reality you have to be active first, at least initially, to develop the necessary drive. Sometimes action should precede motivation and not the reverse all the time.

When you act with full vigor regardless of how you feel, you'll gradually develop that interest. Motivation happens when inertia is broken, when you start to sweat, when your muscles tighten. Once you find that inner fire, keep your momentum and continue what you do. Don't stop. Let the growing fervor engulf your whole system until you accomplish your project.

Keep motivated allies

Surround yourself with enthusiastic people. I know. Some of your close friends and family members including your partner may not be as motivated as you. As a result, you feel trapped and lost. But you have a choice to keep your fire burning. For instance, you can join a community organization or keep a group of motivated friends who can serve as your cheerleaders and ardent supporters.

Stay away from acquaintances, friends, and coworkers that make you feel groggy even after a good night's sleep. Lessen your contact with family members who annoy you. It's not worth it. I'm sure you love them and you don't want to cut off your ties. But you can't shortchange yourself. You deserve the best including the company of wonderful people.

Through these four practical strategies, let your excitement grow and claim those opportunities that are just patiently waiting for you.

Copyright © 2007. Dr. Michael G. Rayel - author (A 31-Day Series and First Aid to Mental Illness) psychiatrist, and inventor of emotional and social skills games -- The Oikos Game Series and The CEO. Since 2005, he has published Oikos' Insights! http://www.oikosinsights.com as an online resource for personal development. For more information, visit http://www.oikosglobal.com