Introduction.
10 Weird Techniques to increase Motivation. Have you ever felt like you lost motivation, even for the things you used to love? We’ve all been there. But what if I told you that there are some unusual, even weird, yet incredibly effective ways to rekindle your passion and zest for life?
This article will reveal 10 unconventional techniques that are effective in boosting motivation, taking a different approach from conventional theory. We’ll delve into the inspiring stories of world figures, offer actionable tips, and cultivate a new mindset that can help you regain your passion and purpose.
Technique 1: Mirror Talk.
Ever heard of the term “mirror talk”? This technique was used by boxing legend Muhammad Ali. Every morning, he would stand in front of the mirror and say, “I am the greatest!”
Talking to yourself in the mirror may sound silly, but it’s a technique used by athletes, public speakers, and even celebrities to boost their self-confidence. When you stand in front of the mirror and say positive words, you are subconsciously reprogramming your subconscious mind, and your mind begins to believe those words.
Why is this effective?
• Reprogramming the subconscious mind.
• Activating self-affirmation.
• Starting the day with positive energy.
Practical Tips:
• Do it every morning for 5 minutes.
• Use a strong affirmation sentence: “I can do this!”
• Look into your own eyes, feel the emotions that arise.
“Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better.” Maya Angelou.
Technique 2: Arranging a Workspace with Strange Colors.
Color can dramatically affect mood. Research from Verywell Mind proves that orange and yellow can increase energy and motivation. Yellow awakens energy, orange triggers creativity, and red increases courage.
A colorful workspace will affect the way you think and react to work. When the brain responds to color as something new, motivation also increases because you feel like you are in a pleasant space.
Try:
• Add bright colored elements to your desk (lamps, sticky notes, decorations).
• Use a desktop wallpaper that exudes energy.
• Avoid dull colors that lower energy.
Technique 3: Wear Unusual Clothes.
What if you wore something completely different today than usual? Clothes can affect our psychology. When you wear clothes that make you feel dashing or beautiful, that feeling spreads to the way you act. You feel more confident.
Try to look different on a day when you feel sluggish, to ward off boredom. Wear something that makes you feel unique. The world may not change, but the way you look at it can change completely.
Steve Jobs once said that wearing the same clothes every day helped him focus. But what if you reversed this? Wear clothes that are different from usual to trigger a new psychological response.
Why does it work?
• The brain notices the “difference” and triggers a sense of readiness.
• You feel “new” and more self-aware.
• Perfect for overcoming stuck feelings.
Tips:
• Wear clothes that make you feel powerful.
• You can also wear funny costumes to provoke laughter and enthusiasm.
Technique 4: Writing with the Left Hand (or Non-Dominant Hand).
This is a technique used by Leonardo da Vinci. Writing or drawing with your non-dominant hand can open up new pathways of creativity and strengthen focus. This exercise can also be a powerful means of reflection to transform negative thought patterns into positive ones that have not been realized so far.
It’s not about the results of the writing, but about the process. Writing with your left hand (if you are left-handed, then your right hand) forces your brain to get out of its comfort zone. You have to slow down, focus more, and be fully present. This process helps open new pathways in the brain that can trigger fresh ideas and awaken previously dormant motivation. Write a journal, quote, or even a poem every morning with your non-dominant hand for 10 minutes.
Benefits:
• Activates the side of the brain that is rarely used.
• Trains concentration.
• Gives the sensation of “processing” again.
How to Apply It:
• Write 5 sentences every morning with your non-dominant hand.
• Don’t worry about the results—focus on the process.
Technique 5: Play Music That Doesn’t Match Your Mood.
Usually, we listen to music that matches our mood. But what if you’re fighting that mood? When you’re feeling down, play energetic songs like EDM (Electronic Dance Music) or upbeat pop.
When you’re feeling down, listen to rock music or even a heroic soundtrack.
Our brains respond naturally to rhythm and beats. Music can raise adrenaline, emotions, and even zest for life.
According to Harvard Health, music can change your emotions and your brain’s dopamine levels.
Practical Steps:
• Create two playlists: “Anti Mood” and “Boost Me Up”
• Play them when you feel stuck or unmotivated.
Technique 6: Walk Backwards.
Sounds funny, right? But this technique is used in cognitive therapy for people with mild depression.
Walking backwards may seem strange, but this technique has a strong philosophy: sometimes, to move forward, we have to step back for a moment. Walking backwards for two minutes every day (in a safe place) can train focus, coordination, and presence.
More than that, you are symbolically saying to yourself: “I control the direction of my life.” This exercise gives you a chance to think back, slow down, and be aware of your steps. You will feel calmer and motivated again.
Benefits:
• Disrupts automatic thought patterns.
• Forces the brain to work more consciously.
• Releases endorphins from physical activity.
Tips:
• Try walking backwards for 2 minutes in the morning or evening. • Do it in a safe place, like your yard or a park.
Technique 7: Send a Letter to Your Future Self.
Imagine yourself 5 years from now. What would you like to hear from your current self?
Example: People like Barack Obama often write reflective letters to themselves in their journals.
Practical Tips:
• Write an email and schedule it to be sent via a service like FutureMe.org
• Use positive language: “Thank you for sticking around this far.”
Technique 8: Do Something You’re Afraid of for 10 Minutes.
Fear is often an invisible prison that blocks our steps. But have you ever tried to “get to know” that fear for just 10 minutes? Many people lose motivation because they are haunted by the fear of failure. But failure is part of the learning process. And how do you overcome the fear of failure?
For example, if you are afraid of public speaking, record a short video. If you are afraid of rejection, send an email offering. When you face the fear, it loses its grip on you. Little by little, you will feel stronger, more alive, and more motivated. It’s not about eliminating fear, but changing your relationship with it.
Real-life Examples:
• Mel Robbins popularized the 5 Second Rule, and she recommends taking action when fear arises.
Tips:
• Afraid of public speaking? Take a 10-minute voice note.
• Afraid to start writing? Open a blank document and write anything.
Technique 9: Create a Unique Morning Ritual Before Starting Your Day.
Imagine that you have a special “start button” to start your day. Morning rituals are not just routines, but symbols of mental and emotional readiness. For example, drinking lemon water while standing upright on the balcony, lighting a scented candle while writing a single affirmation sentence, or even dancing to a full song.
These rituals signal to your brain that the day has begun with enthusiasm and intention. If done consistently, this becomes a very powerful motivational anchor. You will feel more prepared, more positive, and more confident.
Serena Williams has a ritual of arranging her water bottles in a certain order before a match, proving that rituals help your brain feel “ready” without you even realizing it.
Try:
• Dance or recite poetry for 1 minute.
• Shout “Let’s go!” in the shower.
• Light an aromatherapy candle and write down 3 gratitudes.
Technique 10: Write “Reasons Why I Should Never Give Up”
When your motivation is low, it doesn’t mean you’re weak. It means you’re human. One of the most touching techniques is to write a “Reasons Why I Should Never Give Up” list. It could be the names of people you love, childhood dreams, your determination to change your life, or tough moments you’ve overcome.
Keep the list in your wallet, on your wall, or on your phone. When you falter, read it again. It’s not just a piece of writing—it’s a reminder of the biggest reasons you’re alive and moving forward.
Imagining failure is a Stoic approach used by Seneca and Tim Ferriss in the fear-setting technique.
Instead of just thinking positively, try to imagine the worst that could happen… and realize that you are still here, still have time, and still can act.
Tips:
• Create a “Worst Case” scenario on paper.
• Write: “If this happens, I will…”
• Close with a sentence of gratitude for your current situation.
Conclusion.
Sometimes, the methods that sound unreasonable are the most effective. In a world that is constantly changing and full of distractions, we need a new approach to keep our spirits up. A successful mindset is not always formed from big things.
It is often born from the courage to do small, unique, and even strange things. You don’t have to do them all. Pick 2-3 techniques that most intrigue you, and do them consistently for a week.
“People are not lazy. They simply have impotent goals – that is, goals that do not inspire them.” – Tony Robbins.
It’s Time for You to Try Something Weird.
Never underestimate the power of one small step taken today. Because from ordinary to extraordinary, those who dare to try, even though it’s strange in the eyes of others, are those who slowly change into extraordinary people.
It all starts with the courage to act differently.
Now it’s your turn. Choose one weird technique from the list above and practice it today.
Share your experience in the comments or send it to our email. Who knows, your story might inspire someone else.
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