You have a project due, a paper to write, or a workout planned. You want to do it, so why can’t you get started?
One of the biggest myths about productivity is that we need to feel motivated before we take action. For students with ADHD, waiting for motivation can mean waiting a very long time!
Instead of thinking about motivation, think about momentum.
Just like Newton’s Law says, an object in motion stays in motion, our brains often work the same way. The hardest part is getting started. Once you’re moving, it’s much easier to keep going.
Step 1: Set Up Your Environment
Create a workspace that helps you focus and reduces distractions.
Quick Tips:
- Spend 5 minutes clearing your workspace
- Gather everything you need before you begin
- Turn on “Do Not Disturb” and silence notifications.
Step 2: Get Moving
Movement helps wake up the brain and boost focus.
Quick Tips:
- Dance to a favorite song
- Take a short walk
- Do a minute of stretching or cross-body movements.
The goal isn’t exercise—it’s getting your brain and body into motion.
Step 3: Make a Plan Before You Stop
One of the best ways to start tomorrow is to plan today.
Before ending a work session, take a few minutes to write down the following:
- What still needs to be done
- Your first task for next time
- Any materials you’ll need
When you sit down again, you’ll already know where to start.
The Dopamine Connection:
Low motivation is often linked to low dopamine. Our brains naturally look for quick dopamine boosts, and screens are experts at providing them.
Instead of reaching for a phone, try a healthier dopamine boost:
- Listen to music
- Take a walk
- Stretch or exercise
- Enjoy a favorite snack or drink
- Take a quick shower
Consider creating your own -“Dopamine Toolbox”—a short list of activities that help you feel energized and ready to work.
Important to Remember………
Motivation doesn’t usually come first. Action comes first.
Start small. Move your body. Create a plan. Once the ball starts rolling, momentum can carry you much farther than motivation ever could.
Dynamis Learning can help boost motivation in your 6th-12th grade child. Email us by clicking HERE to set up a time to chat about what you are seeing at home and/or school. These are life skills that need to be developed sooner than later.
You have a project due, a paper to write, or a workout planned. You want to do it, so why can’t you get started?
One of the biggest myths about productivity is that we need to feel motivated before we take action. For students with ADHD, waiting for motivation can mean waiting a very long time!
Instead of thinking about motivation, think about momentum.
Just like Newton’s Law says, an object in motion stays in motion, our brains often work the same way. The hardest part is getting started. Once you’re moving, it’s much easier to keep going.
Step 1: Set Up Your Environment
Create a workspace that helps you focus and reduces distractions.
Quick Tips:
- Spend 5 minutes clearing your workspace
- Gather everything you need before you begin
- Turn on “Do Not Disturb” and silence notifications.
Step 2: Get Moving
Movement helps wake up the brain and boost focus.
Quick Tips:
- Dance to a favorite song
- Take a short walk
- Do a minute of stretching or cross-body movements.
The goal isn’t exercise—it’s getting your brain and body into motion.
Step 3: Make a Plan Before You Stop
One of the best ways to start tomorrow is to plan today.
Before ending a work session, take a few minutes to write down the following:
- What still needs to be done
- Your first task for next time
- Any materials you’ll need
When you sit down again, you’ll already know where to start.
The Dopamine Connection:
Low motivation is often linked to low dopamine. Our brains naturally look for quick dopamine boosts, and screens are experts at providing them.
Instead of reaching for a phone, try a healthier dopamine boost:
- Listen to music
- Take a walk
- Stretch or exercise
- Enjoy a favorite snack or drink
- Take a quick shower
Consider creating your own -“Dopamine Toolbox”—a short list of activities that help you feel energized and ready to work.
Important to Remember………
Motivation doesn’t usually come first. Action comes first.
Start small. Move your body. Create a plan. Once the ball starts rolling, momentum can carry you much farther than motivation ever could.
Dynamis Learning can help boost motivation in your 6th-12th grade child. Email us by clicking HERE to set up a time to chat about what you are seeing at home and/or school. These are life skills that need to be developed sooner than later.