Waves of Work: Turning Unmotivated into Motivated

We all reach points in our lives where we are just unmotivated.  Whether its because you feel like you follow behind your kids and hubby all day picking up messes, you're missing your old out of the home job, your overwhelmed by bills and your to do list, or your sick (or just sick and tired!).  But even when our motivation levels are on empty the work still has to be done, the unending glories of motherhood...

Here are a few ways to "get through it" and help push yourself: 

1.) "Waves of Work" ~ This one is particularly effective when you're sick or pregnant, simply go in waves, push yourself hard until you feel like you simply can't do any more, and then sit down and take a breath, play a Facebook game, chat with a friend.  When you feel like you've recovered a bit (or you need to go to the restroom or get up for more water, etc.) get up and push yourself through another wave.  It will take a little extra time but it will get done!

2.) "Fifteen Minute Timer" ~ Literally.  Put yourself in a "cleaning time out."  Set the timer for 15 minutes and test yourself to find out how much you can do!  I've seen this as competitions on mommy boards (and have competed!) and its very effective.  If you have kids add them to it too and have a friendly competition.

3.) "Circles" ~ Break the cleaning into different stages.  Do a circle around your living room and pick up all the toys.  Do another circle and pick up all the laundry.  Do another circle and pick up all the dishes.  Do another circle and...  See how many circles you need to get it done.  I typically take 3-5 circles with my two year old.

4.) "Chore Wars!" ~ A website that helps make cleaning fun.  http://www.chorewars.com/index.php  If you're a gamer its a fun twist on cleaning. 

5.) "Reward" ~ Offer yourself a reward for a clean house, a trip to the mall to window shop, a picnic at a park, a "luxury" dinner, an extra tv show.  Avoid high calories or spending lots of money though! hehe. 

What do you do to help yourself stay motivated and keep your house clean?