Most everyone is excited when they start a new job… you’re full of energy and enthusiasm with lots of good ideas and eager to get going. Then, as time goes by, you’re less motivated, maybe dulled by the routine, or just bored. It happens to all of us. So, what can you do to get re-charged and productive again?

No one is motivated 100% of the time, but there are things you can do to climb out of the slump and take action. Here are some tips to regain your motivation at work:

• Challenge yourself to “just start.” If you’re just sitting there, unable to tackle the task at hand, just do the first step, whatever that is. Many times, that will get you into the flow and you’ll be able to follow through. Try setting a timer on your phone for 30 seconds and when it goes off, you have to do the first thing on the list. Once you’ve started, you’ll build momentum.
• Change your scenery. Take a break and walk around the building or chat with a co-worker in another department for a few minutes to give your mind a break from the same old routine.
• Remember why you’re working there. Of course, it’s a job and you’re getting paid. But, why are you pursuing a career in hospitality? What makes you excited about this path in the beginning? Remind yourself what you like about it and pat yourself on the back for getting started in your career.
• Always try to maintain a positive mindset. Your thoughts have a profound impact on how your day, your career, and even your life go. If you keep thinking negatively, that cycle will likely continue. Focus on the things you like and surround yourself with like-minded people. Positivity breeds more positivity.
• Set a big goal …Maybe your “ideal” 5-year plan. Be as specific as you can and you’ll discover a fresh perspective to your day. You’ll experience greater output and better performance because you’ll be working toward something you really want.
• Break your tasks/goals down into small pieces. That way, you can intentionally chip away at the larger goal and still see your accomplishments almost daily. As you cross off each small task, you’ll get a boost every time.
• Make sure you review your progress regularly. Acknowledge what you’ve achieved and it will become clear what you still need to do. This is a great way to reduce stress and not feel overwhelmed.
• Depending on what job you have, it can really help to listen to music while you’re working. Some people have great success listening to a playlist that gets you in the right mood to power through your work.
• Be mindful of what you’re eating and drinking. Having a lot of sugary drinks and snacks can leave you feeling cloudy and make it hard to concentrate. Too much caffeine can make you nervous and jittery. Eating well will keep you going and focused throughout the day.
• Do the tasks you dread, first. Getting them out of the way gives you the rest of the day to do the things you most enjoy. Focus on the elements of your work that you really like doing.
• Learn something new. Take advantage of online classes, certifications, and workshops that expand your skills and expose you to other aspects of the hospitality industry. You just might discover a new interest or ability that leads you in an exciting, new direction.
• Practice gratitude. Try to shift your perspective and recognize the good things about your job, your team, and your company. You have a job, a paycheck, and benefits… and you’re working in an industry devoted to helping guests have a great time. It’s all good. 
• Reward yourself. Get in the habit of celebrating (or at least acknowledging) your successes. Keep track of them, look at the list often, give yourself a pat on the back and share the good news with family, friends, and co-workers. Go out for lunch, buy yourself some flowers, share a coffee break with a team member and take a few minutes to enjoy the good stuff.
• Find a Mentor. Find someone in the hospitality industry that will have actionable advice on how to move forward in your career. You can swap stories; compare experiences and amp up your skills.
• Eliminate distractions. If you can’t seem to stop scrolling on Facebook or Twitter or checking email every couple of minutes, get rid of it. Put your phone in a drawer, or in your car and disable email notifications on your computer. Without temptation, you can’t be tempted. 
• Find a buddy to keep you accountable. Talk to someone who may also be struggling and share what you’ve accomplished each day. Set deadlines, even if they’re arbitrary, and block out time on your calendar when you will get certain tasks done.

Once you’ve adopted some of these tips and are back on track, team up with energetic and passionate, motivated people.  With some personal reflection, you’ll find what works for you and be ready to find new purpose, energy, and excitement to move on in your career.