Monday Motivation: 19 September
Got the Monday blues? Reclaim the day and set the tone for the entire week with these helpful, motivational tidbits:
“When I hear somebody sigh, ‘Life is hard’, I am always tempted to ask, ‘Compared to what?’” – Sydney Harris
Rising prices, pandemics, conflicts, load-shedding … there are a lot of things out of our control that may be getting you down at the moment, but sometimes the best thing we can do is to simply laugh.
Finding humour in the worst of situations can change your outlook from negative to positive, boosting your morale and productivity. Hence, we’re taking a comedic approach on this week’s edition of “Monday Motivation”!
Life isn’t a bed of roses, it’s true, but there are some people who do not have to put up with the thorns like others do. And sure, you might not be a millionaire, but you’re probably richer than most.
Take note and reflect upon the things you have in your life and be grateful; never take them for granted, because you wouldn’t be where you are now without them. And wherever possible, share them with those less fortunate – by improving their lives without selfishness or reluctance, you are improving your own.
“Age is of no importance unless you’re a cheese” – Billie Burke
Nothing is more belittling or demotivating than being the victim (or witness) of ageism. Ageism is when someone discriminates against an individual or group based on their age. Even if the perpetrator’s remarks were said in jest, they can stoke the fears of anxiety and depression. For example, being told you’re not “with it” when it comes to the latest fashion trends or being “too old and infirm” to carry out a certain task can really bump down your spirits.
Experts say that the best ways to overcome ageism are being active, such as spending time outdoors, getting involved in community activities, or simply continuing with your hobbies as usual. Maximise your independence where possible – assure people of your capabilities; let them know that you will ask for help or assistance if you really need it, rather than having them assume wrongly.
Above all, don’t be afraid to speak out if someone’s being ageist towards you (or someone else), and don’t forget to lead by example: it’s okay to drop a self-deprecating joke about your age once in a while, but you also don’t want your autonomy and self-confidence to take a dive when somebody else sees this as a sign to make similar “jokes” in return.
“If you think you are too small to make a difference, you haven’t spent the night with a mosquito” – Dalai Lama
Ever lay awake at night because of a bothersome mosquito buzzing around you? That mosquito makes all the difference between getting a good night’s sleep and being sleep-deprived (alternatively, running around in the darkness trying to find and swat the darn thing).
Yet in a way, we can learn from the mosquito: it’s persistent, it’s hungry, and it will make an impact on somebody else when it comes into contact with them. In other words, it knows its significance. In both the professional and personal aspects of your life, don’t ever think of yourself as insignificant, as a mere cog in the machine – you have enough worth to make a difference.
No one is bigger than you; the only thing that’s bigger is your potential, and if you believe in yourself, you can realise that potential in no time.
“Be like a postage stamp: stick to a thing ‘til you get there” – Josh Billings
Ever been in a position where you tell yourself, “Yup, I know when I’m licked”? It’s that feeling you get when you’re so demotivated that you either give up halfway or before you even start.
When it comes to trying out a new opportunity or skill, your inner saboteur may already be hard at work in goading you into self-defeat. But, like a postage stamp, you just have to keep holding on until you arrive at the point where you want to be. Don’t get waylaid by your doubts and insecurities; keep a cool head, remain hopeful, and persevere, knowing that the worst is behind you.
