Motivation - When Things Are Difficult - PMI Shorts #10

An Interview with David Womack, Jan Hailey, and Katie Lawrence

Every time you press a button on your computer, a second one almost seems to ask, “Are you sure that’s what you want to do?” Life often feels the same way—full of unexpected twists and moments of hesitation, especially when things get tough. In a recent conversation on PMI Shorts, David Womack, Jan Hailey, and Katie Lawrence shared insights on how to stay motivated when the going gets hard. Here’s a breakdown of their discussion and some practical tips for both leaders and individuals facing challenging times.

Understanding the Challenges

At the start of their chat, the team acknowledged that difficult periods are unavoidable. Whether it’s the pressure of a high volume of patients, the chaos of a snowstorm in the Midwest, or simply the slow post-holiday transition, stress and overwhelm can creep in quickly. As Katie pointed out, in environments like healthcare, the sheer number of demands can make it seem impossible to keep up—even with the best-laid plans. The reality is that life rarely gives us the perfect moment to pause; instead, it throws challenges our way constantly.

Motivating a Team When It’s Tough

When managing a team during these stressful periods, one of the most important lessons is flexibility. Katie reminded us that while having a detailed plan is crucial, we must also accept that humans are not perfectly predictable machines. It’s about finding the balance between structure and the necessary room for error.

Leaders are encouraged to:

• Plan, Execute, Reflect: Start with a clear plan, take action, then review what worked and what didn’t.
• Allow for Grace: Understand that setbacks are normal and that a little deviation doesn’t mean the entire effort has failed.
• Tailor Your Approach: Every team member reacts differently. Some may thrive on change, while others might need more reassurance and structure.

This approach not only helps maintain trust but also keeps the team moving forward, even when plans go off course.

Self-Motivation: Taking Care of Yourself First

One of the most powerful analogies shared was the reminder to “put your own oxygen mask on first.” Leaders often get so caught up in managing their teams that they neglect their own needs. Yet, taking time for self-reflection and self-care is crucial. When you’re overwhelmed, it’s important to step back—whether that means taking a short walk, doing a quick mental reset, or simply acknowledging that you’re only human. By doing one thing at a time and reflecting on each step, you ensure that you remain effective, both for yourself and for those you lead.

Practical Tips for Staying Motivated

Here are a few actionable takeaways from the discussion:

• Do One Thing at a Time: Instead of trying to tackle everything at once, focus on accomplishing one task. This simple step can reduce overwhelm and boost confidence.
• Plan, Execute, Reflect: Cycle through these steps regularly. Acknowledge what worked, learn from what didn’t, and adjust your approach accordingly.
• Adapt and Be Flexible: Embrace the unexpected. When plans change or go off track, use it as an opportunity to learn and grow.
• Listen Actively: Both to yourself and to your team. Effective listening can often reveal the solutions you need before the problems escalate.
• Prioritize Self-Care: Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Make time for your own mental and emotional well-being.

Final Thoughts

When things get tough, motivation can feel elusive. Yet, by embracing flexibility, fostering clear communication, and ensuring you take care of yourself first, you can navigate even the most challenging times. Whether you’re leading a team or managing your own workload, remember that progress is made one step at a time—and sometimes, doing just one thing right is all it takes to keep moving forward.

What strategies do you rely on when motivation feels out of reach? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!