If you’ve ever tried meditation, you’re no stranger to the peace and clarity it can bring into your life. But let’s face it – there are days when motivation takes a backseat, making it a challenge to spend even a few minutes in silent meditation. Rest assured, you’re not alone in your quest to discover ‘how to find the motivation to meditate.’ In this post, we’ll delve into nine practical tips that will rekindle that spark and keep you coming back to your meditation practice day after day.
Alright, let’s dive straight into the heart of meditation motivation – discovering your ‘why.’
1. What’s Your ‘Why’ For Meditation
You would not set sail on a ship without knowing your destination, right? Well, your meditation journey is quite similar. You need a clear ‘why’. First things first, let’s acknowledge that meditation isn’t just some trendy hobby. It’s a powerful tool, a secret weapon for your mind. But without a purpose, it’s like having a map with no clear destination, no “X marks the spot” to guide us.
So why is meditation important for you? Are you after stress reduction? Are you looking for spiritual growth? Are seeking to sharpen your focus? Or do you want to simply relax after a tiring day and have some ‘me’ time? What is it that you want out of your meditation practice? Your ‘why’ will keep you motivated and keep you on track to pursue your meditation practice. So take a moment and ponder on your ‘why’ and jot it down as your meditation mission statement.
2. Set Realistic Goals – Dream Big, Start Small
You know those big, audacious dreams you have about meditation? The ones where you meditate like a Zen master for hours on end? Yeah, those dreams are fantastic, but I have a little secret for you: the path to those dreams starts with baby steps.
Why start small? Well, consider this: the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. If you’re new to meditation, aiming for daily thirty-minute sessions right off the bat might feel like signing up for a marathon when you’re still learning to jog. It’s okay to take it slow and steady.
So, what are some small goals that can give your motivation a booster shot? How about committing to a daily five-minute meditation session? It’s short, sweet, and entirely doable.
Setting achievable goals helps you build confidence and create a sense of accomplishment. Every five minutes of meditation adds up, and before you know it, you’ll be meditating like a pro. The key here is to celebrate your small victories, like the mini meditation milestones they are.
3. Choose a Meditation Style That Matches Your Personality
When it comes to finding your meditation style always remember there is no one-size-fits-all in meditation, and that’s the beauty of it. You’re unique, and so is your meditation style. So, have fun exploring, and find the flavor of meditation that resonates with your soul.
So, let’s talk flavors, shall we? Here are a few delicious meditation styles that might tickle your taste buds:
- Guided Meditation
- This is like having a wise friend walk you through your meditation, providing gentle guidance and imagery. It’s great for beginners who like a bit of hand-holding.
- Mindfulness Meditation
- The trendiest flavor in the meditation world! It’s all about staying present, noticing your thoughts, and letting them flow like leaves in a stream. It’s perfect for those who want to calm their ever-racing mind.
- Loving-Kindness Meditation
- If you’re all about spreading love and positive vibes, this one’s for you. It’s like a warm, fuzzy hug for your heart. You send good wishes to yourself and others, and it’s like planting seeds of love in your soul.
- Transcendental Meditation
- Imagine this as a journey to the deepest corners of your mind. It’s like a magical mystery tour of your inner universe, where you uncover untapped potential and creativity.
- Body Scan Meditation
- If you’re the kind of person who loves a good massage or a hot bath, this is like a massage for your mind. You’ll scan your body, releasing tension and melting into a puddle of relaxation.
I encourage you to try a few different styles and see which one feels the most appropriate for you.
4. Where To Meditate – Your Zen Zone
Your environment plays a pivotal role in your meditation practice. When you enter your Zen Zone, your mind gets a signal that it’s time to unwind. As you step into that space your mind instantly whispers, “Relax, you’re home.
So, how do you make your Zen Zone? Here are some tips:
- Keep It Simple
- Your Zen Zone doesn’t need to be lavish. It could be a nook by the window or a cozy corner of your bedroom. You can choose to have a cushion or a comfortable chair, a soft throw, and a scented candle can work wonders.
- Eliminate Distractions
- Make sure your space is free from distractions. Turn off your phone or put it on silent mode. Clear away clutter and keep it clean. Choose a place where you won’t be easily disturbed.
- Personalize It
- Your Zen Zone is a reflection of you. Add personal touches like a meaningful quote, a photo, or a piece of art that resonates with your journey.
- Set The Ambiance
- Soft lighting, calming colors, and soothing scents can enhance your meditation experience. You can also incorporate plants or meaningful decor to create a serene atmosphere.
5. When To Meditate – Finding The Right Time
Are you a morning lark or a night owl? Do you live by your planner or simply go with the flow? No matter your style, there’s a perfect time to meditate just for you. The beauty of meditation is that it’s not about the clock, it’s about the connection.
- Early Bird Bliss
- If you’re the type who greets the dawn with a smile, consider setting your alarm clock a tad earlier. The world hasn’t quite woken up, and neither have your to-do lists. A morning meditation can set the tone for your entire day.
- Midday Mindfulness
- Midday meditation can recharge your mental batteries, when the day’s momentum starts to overwhelm you, take a breather. Lunch breaks at noon are perfect windows for a midday meditation session.
- You can close your office door or even a quick escape to your car spend a few minutes in mindful contemplation and return to your desk feeling rejuvenated.
- Evening Calm
- If the idea of morning alarms makes you cringe, you are an evening meditator. An evening meditation can wash away the day’s stress, preparing you for a restful night.
- The Schedule Shifter
- For the free spirits and the unpredictable schedules, finding the right time can be a bit trickier. The schedule shifter knows no boundaries and often meditates when the moment feels just right.
- It might be a quiet corner of a park, a bench in the office courtyard, or the cozy nook in your favorite cafe. The key is to grab your meditation window when it presents itself.
6. Embrace Accountability
So, you’ve been meditating solo, and that’s awesome. But ever thought about adding a dash of social support to your practice? It’s like turning your solo violin performance into a symphony orchestra – way more fun and impactful.
Now, you might be wondering, how does accountability boost motivation? Well, imagine this: on a chilly morning when your cozy bed competes with your meditation cushion, your accountability partner or group is the gentle nudge you need to choose meditation. It’s not just about letting yourself down but also your meditation companions.
Here’s the deal: finding an accountability partner or a meditation group can be a game-changer for your motivation. It’s like having a friendly cheerleader squad for your meditation adventures.
- Meditation Buddy
- This is like having your ‘meditation mate’. You both commit to your meditation practice and check in with each other regularly. It’s like having a workout buddy but for your mind. When you know someone is counting on you to meditate, you’re more likely to show up on the cushion.
- Meditation Group
- Think of this as a tribe of like-minded individuals on a similar quest for inner peace. Joining a meditation group or class can provide a sense of community and shared purpose. It’s a space where you can share your struggles and triumphs, learn from others, and grow together.
7. Reward Yourself For Regular Practice
You can reward yourself for consistent meditation practice. It’s like a little pat on the back from yourself, saying, “Hey, great job meditating today!”
The concept is simple. When you set a goal for your meditation practice, whether it’s a streak of consecutive days or a specific time duration, promise yourself a reward for achieving it. This isn’t bribery; it’s more like positive reinforcement.
The key here is to choose a reward that resonates with you and genuinely feels like a treat. When you have something to look forward to after your meditation practice, it adds an extra layer of motivation. Some examples:
- Fancy Coffee or Chocolate
- It can be that piece of chocolate that you have been saving or a fancy cup of coffee from your favorite cafe. The point is to indulge in something that brings a smile to your face.
- Nature Walk
- Nature is the ultimate healer, and a peaceful walk in a nearby park or along the beach can be a rejuvenating reward. Breathe in the fresh air, feel the sun on your face, and enjoy the moment.
Remember, it’s not about the size of the reward; it’s about the joy it brings.
8. Stay Flexible & Be Kind To Yourself
No matter how dedicated you are, life has a way of throwing curveballs your way. Sometimes, you might sit down for your meditation, and your mind is like a carnival, with thoughts and distractions running wild. And that’s okay. It happens to all of us. In the world of meditation, even the most seasoned practitioners have off days.
Be kind to yourself, like you would to a close friend. Understand that some days will be easier, and some will be harder. Remember, meditation is a practice, and it’s called that for a reason. It’s about progress, not perfection. Be flexible in your approach. If you can only meditate for a few minutes one day, that’s okay.
As you sit down to meditate, let go of the need to control every thought and emotion. Embrace the beautiful chaos of your mind. It’s all part of the process.
9. Hiring a Meditation Teacher / Coach
If you’re finding it tough to stay motivated for your meditation practice or if you’re new to meditation and could use a helping hand, consider the wonderful option of having a meditation coach or teacher alongside you. This can make a world of difference and turbocharge your meditation journey by offering you the guidance, structure, and motivation to turn meditation into a consistent and fulfilling part of your life.
A meditation coach can be your rock, providing the much-needed emotional support essential for tackling the challenges and emotional moments that can surface during your meditation sessions. Moreover, they’re skilled in showing you how to weave mindfulness into your everyday life, helping you reap the practical benefits of meditation in your daily routines.