Table of Contents

  • 1. Don't Confuse Motivation with Passion

2. Outline First

3. create small, attainable goals, 4. make it a daily practice.

  • 5. Don't Be Perfect—Vomit on the Page

6. Focus on the Reader

7. practice self-care, 8. announce the book, 9. recognize and face your fear, 9 ways to boost your writing motivation (that actually work).

need motivation to write an essay

No one wakes up every single day with the motivation to write —not even Authors with major bestsellers under their belt (like me).

There will be days when you simply don’t feel like staring at a blank page.

As someone who’s been there, here’s my writing advice : push through and do it anyway.

Even on the days when you don’t feel like it. Otherwise, it’s easy to fall into a pattern of procrastination.

One day of “not feeling like writing” can easily turn into 2, then 10…until eventually, you give up entirely.

I’ve seen so many Authors give up the first, second, or even third time they tried to write a book—mostly because they lost their motivation and gave in to procrastination or fear.

If you want to publish a book , you have to dig deep and find the motivation to write every single day. Even if it’s terrible. Even if you hate it.

The only way to become a better writer—and to finish your book—is to push through those hard moments.

Here are 9 proven ways to motivate yourself to write—even when you don’t want to.

9 Proven Ways to Motivate Yourself to Write

1. don’t confuse motivation with passion.

Forget everything you’ve ever learned about writing “out of passion.” If you wait to feel passionate about what you’re writing, you’ll never finish writing your book.

You can’t rely on passion. It comes and goes too easily. You’re not going to feel passionate every single day.

The same goes for writing inspiration. There’s rarely a bolt of lightning that makes the words flow.

Writing is hard. That’s why a lot of aspiring Authors give up before they’ve finished their first draft.

Motivation doesn’t always mean loving what you’re doing. Sometimes it means digging your heels in and just doing it.

For example, I don’t always love going to the gym, but I do it anyway. And in the end, I’m glad I did (after I’m done).

Don’t confuse passion for motivation.

It’s okay to write when you don’t “feel motivated” if what you really mean is, “I’m not stoked about doing this right now.”

You don’t have to be stoked about it. You just have to start writing.

If you feel passionate, that’s great. But don’t expect more of yourself than necessary.

If you’re writing, you’re motivated. Period. You’re doing it.

At its core, writing is just communicating ideas. It doesn’t have to be more complicated than that.

Of course, you want the ideas you capture to be relevant to your book. That’s why you should always outline first—so you can capture all your ideas about a specific section before you move on to the next one.

Then, when you do sit down to write, you’ll already have all the relevant ideas gathered. That makes things a lot easier.

An outline is also your greatest defense against fear and writers’ block . It’s a lot harder to get stuck when you’ve got a roadmap guiding the way.

Scribe’s suggested outline is different from the one you might have learned in school. It’s not a bullet point list of every step of the argument.

We’ve found that traditional outlines aren’t flexible enough for most Authors. Plus, sometimes, you can’t get to that level of detail until you’re actually in the middle of writing.

What makes our outline different is that it’s designed specifically to help you write your book.

In fact, our writing process has helped thousands of Authors write successful nonfiction books. It works.

All it takes is 3 simple steps:

  • Brainstorm your chapters
  • Make a table of contents
  • Fill in the outline structure with your chapter’s hook, thesis, supporting content, stories and examples, key takeaways, and a callback to the hook.

If you want a template or more details, you can find them here .

Once you see your book in outline form, writing it will seem easier.

Conceptually, you’re not writing a whole book anymore. You’re looking at a clear collection of ideas and stories, most of which are already in your head.

You’ll be more motivated to write once you’ve broken your book into manageable pieces. It’s easier to climb a mountain when you take it one step at a time.

The reason an outline is so powerful is that it helps you see your book in terms of smaller, more attainable goals. You should do the same with all of your writing goals.

Many people start out thinking, “I have to write as much as possible.” Or, they set a high word count goal, like 1,000 words per day. And when they don’t reach those goals, they get disappointed. They feel like a failure.

That’s the worst way to motivate yourself to write.

With large goals, it’s easy to get intimidated (that’s usually when writer’s block sets in). But attainable goals make it easier to get over that hump.

Remember, motivation has nothing to do with passion. If you’re writing at all , you’re already motivated.

You don’t have to go overboard and shoot for the moon just to show you’re passionate about your book. When people do that, it’s usually because they’re trying to prove something to themselves.

You won’t prove anything by setting unattainable goals.

Rewire your brain and think small. Set goals that will set you up for success.

I recommend writing 250 words per day. That word count is low enough to be easily achievable. It leaves you with no excuses.

You could write 250 words on your phone between meetings. You could even dictate 250 words to your phone while you’re in the shower.

If you do end up writing more than 250 words, that’s great. Keep going as long as you want.

But if it’s one of those days where writing feels like a slog, you can still meet that word count and avoid being disappointed with yourself.

It’s more important to be consistent with writing than to have epic writing sessions.

When I was writing full-time, I blocked off 4 hours a day to write—but I rarely used that whole time to actually write. I read or did other things related to writing.

It’s hard to write for hours on end. And like most things in life, you’ll get diminishing returns.

Aim for 250 words every day, and stick with it. And remember, if you’re doing it, you’re motivated.

Notice that I said you need to write 250 words every single day . That’s because you’ll be much more motivated to write when it becomes a daily practice.

In addition to the 250 words per day, I recommend that you come up with a writing routine to help keep you on track.

Pick a designated writing time and stick to it every day. Are you better at writing in the morning, or do you like to write right before bed? Maybe it’s easier to squeeze 250 words in over your lunch break.

There’s no right or wrong answer. Just pick a time whenever you do your best writing and stick with it.

The same goes for your writing place. Maybe you write well in a quiet office. Or, maybe it’s easier for you to focus in a coffee shop.

We worked with one Author who wrote in his Tesla while it was charging in his garage. He put the same playlist on every day, turned up the volume, and spent the next 45 minutes writing.

The reason you need a writing routine is the same reason you teach your kids to brush their teeth every morning.

They may grumble or whine, but once they get into the habit, they do it anyway—no matter how much they don’t want to.

It works the same way when you’re writing a book. Writing habits keep you motivated to write and do it again the next day.

A writing routine gives you the fuel to keep going, even when you think your tank is running low. When writing becomes an automatic part of your day, it’s a lot harder to procrastinate.

5. Don’t Be Perfect—Vomit on the Page

Don’t intimidate yourself by trying to be a perfect writer.

First of all, there’s no such thing.

Second, if you do that, you’ll never finish your book because you’ll never live up to your own expectations.

I’m dead serious. I’ve seen countless Authors get stuck writing the first draft of their book. They’ll get off to a good start—but then they’ll re-read what they’ve written, delete it, and start over.

They do that 50 times and eventually give up (spoiler: they never finish their book).

Don’t fall into the same trap of unrealistic expectations . Just aim to get words on a page.

In fact, don’t even think of your writing as “writing a book.” You’re not writing a book. You’re just collecting your thoughts.

That’s why I call my first drafts “ vomit drafts .” I spew words and thoughts onto a page. I don’t stop to edit, re-read, or think about how the writing flows.

printer printing

Like vomit, it’s not pretty. But after you’ve written all your ideas out, you’ll feel so much better.

Plus, it’s a lot easier to motivate yourself to write when you free yourself from the need to be perfect.

When you write a vomit draft, you don’t give yourself time to stare at a blank page. There’s no room for intimidation.

You just start writing and let whatever’s inside your brain come out. It’s not going to be perfect. In fact, it will probably be terrible.

But that’s okay. Most first drafts are terrible. Even books that go on to become bestsellers started as terrible first drafts.

Embrace it. Realize that bad writing is a natural part of the writing process.

A first draft is exactly what the name implies—a first step.

Your book will go through multiple drafts before anyone even sees it.

Of course, you’ll eventually have to wade through the vomit. You’ll have to trim, add, and edit . And you’ll probably have to move things around and rethink the structure of your chapters . That’s normal.

For now, stop worrying about how good or bad your writing is and start capturing your ideas. You can make them sound great later.

Don’t edit as you go. Just write. Vomit on the page.

It’s a lot easier to fix writing when you actually have writing to fix.

Many people find it easier to motivate themselves during the “vomit” phase. Once you get into the groove of spewing 250 words per day, it can be refreshing.

The part that’s harder is when you have to go back through all that writing to turn it into a coherent, well-written book.

Here’s my advice when you reach that phase: hold on to your motivation by keeping your focus on the reader.

You’re writing a nonfiction book for a reason. What made you want to do this in the first place?

At some level, it’s because you want to help your readers solve their problems.

If you’re writing a memoir , it’s because you want to share your story with people who can benefit from hearing it.

If you’re writing a knowledge-share nonfiction book , you’re trying to prove to your readers that you’re the person that can meet their needs.

Whatever kind of book you’re writing, your reader is at the heart of your motivation.

If you feel stuck or don’t feel like writing, remember that. Think about the people you’re going to help and how their lives will change because of your book.

When readers pick up a nonfiction book, they aren’t looking for perfection or a sublime writing style . They’re looking to learn information that’s going to make their lives better.

Here are 4 essential writing principles to help you deliver information in a way readers will appreciate:

  • Keep your writing short. Readers tune out when you wander.
  • Keep your writing simple. Readers want content they can easily understand, even if the ideas are complex.
  • Keep your writing direct. Get to the point, and make each sentence a single, direct statement.
  • Keep it about the reader. Ask yourself this question about everything you write: “Why does the reader care?”

Imagine having a conversation with a client or a close friend. What would you tell them, and how would you deliver the information?

Don’t make writing harder than it has to be. To stay motivated, imagine speaking directly to your reader and making an impact on their lives.

If you’re still unmotivated after all that, you might want to reconsider your intentions. If it’s that hard to motivate yourself, maybe writing a book isn’t something you really want to do.

This may seem odd to include in an article on motivational writing tips, but if you want to motivate yourself, you have to take care of yourself.

If you’re super stressed out or exhausted, you’re not going to function well. And you’re definitely not going to feel motivated to write.

I won’t lie. Writing can be a slog. And completing a book will take an emotional, mental, and sometimes physical toll on you. If you don’t take care of yourself, it’s easy to lose steam.

There are many ways you can take care of yourself. For example, you can:

  • Get plenty of sleep
  • Take nature walks
  • Talk to a therapist
  • Visit an energy healer or masseuse
  • Try acupuncture
  • Go for regular float sessions
  • Sit in a sauna
  • Take a bath with Epsom salts

Basically, take time to do things that will make your body and mind feel better. You want to develop good writing habits, not become a writing machine.

To do that, you need to check in with yourself from time to time to make sure you’re at the top of your game.

Being refreshed will make you a better writer. Self-care will revitalize you so you can come back the next day, ready to meet your writing goals.

While some people thrive on routines and self-care, others are more motivated by external accountability.

If you’re one of those people, I recommend announcing that you’re working on a book.

Tell people on social media. Write a guest post for your favorite blogger. Email your friends and family.

Whatever method works best for you, use it to announce your intention to the world.

And if you’re serious about writing, I recommend announcing your book on the platform that makes you the least comfortable.

Yes, that may seem like a lot of pressure. But it’s important to identify any points of resistance you have and push through them.

You’ll get a lot of positive feedback, which will help you become more motivated. And when your motivation wavers, you’ll be reminded that there are people eagerly awaiting your book.

I believe that every person has a book in them. But one of the major things that holds people back from writing those books is fear .

They’re afraid that their book won’t be good enough, original enough, or meaningful enough. They’re afraid of looking stupid or making people angry.

Those kinds of fears are normal, but you shouldn’t let them get in the way.

You have a story that’s worth telling. The only way to truly motivate yourself to tell it is to conquer your fear.

If you allow those fears to stick around, they only lead to procrastination , frustration, and surrender.

If you want to overcome your fear, I recommend facing them head-on. Write down all your fears about the writing process, self-publishing, or fears about how people will react once they read the book.

Evaluate each fear and recognize what those fears mean. Fear has a point and a purpose. It’s an indicator of risk.

Every Author who writes a book worth reading is taking a risk. If you’re scared, congratulations. It means you have something worth saying.

Fear isn’t the problem. The problem is when you let fears take over.

Keep in mind what your book is going to do for you and what it’s going to do for your readers.

Then, make a plan for facing your fears. For example, if you’re afraid you’ll never finish writing your book, use that fear as motivation. Create a writing routine and resolve to stick with it through the whole writing process.

Read This Next

Elevating Your Nonfiction Audiobook: 7 Strategies for an Engaging Listening Experience

How James Patterson Uses Co-Authors to Write Dozens of Books Per Year

Never Stop Launching [How to Make Your Book Successful]

The Writing King

  • Code of Conduct
  • All Services
  • Testimonials
  • Case Studies
  • Writing Courses
  • Commentaries
  • Influencers
  • Site Overview
  • Book Proposal
  • Ghostwriting
  • Social Media

6 Strategies to Boost Your Writing Motivation: Fueling Impressive Creativity

Writers Block Can Stop the Creative Juices Cold

Table of Contents

Writing Motivation

Understanding Writer’s Block

The infamous antagonist in every writer’s tale is the daunting writer’s block . This mysterious phase hinders our writing motivation, leaving us staring at blank pages. However, it’s a common phenomenon shared by many creative minds globally. The first step towards defeating this adversary is understanding its root causes, which can range from harsh critiques to an unfavorable writing environment.

But remember, overcoming writer’s block is a journey, not a destination. The process helps us grow as writers, teaching us resilience and determination. By understanding what triggers your block, you can devise strategies to boost your writing motivation and keep writer’s block at bay.

The Importance of a Writing Routine

Creating a writing routine is an underestimated but powerful strategy to fuel your writing motivation. A common myth surrounding the creative process is that inspiration will spontaneously strike. However, in most cases, discipline serves as the breeding ground for creativity.

Scheduling regular hours for writing breeds familiarity, easing the flow of ideas and gradually boosting your writing motivation. Over time, this practice can transform writing from a Herculean task to an integral part of your routine.

Creating the Ideal Writing Environment

The significance of a conducive writing environment in nurturing your writing motivation cannot be overstated. A serene, distraction-free setting can do wonders for your creativity, allowing your thoughts to flow seamlessly onto the paper.

Remember, the definition of an ideal writing environment varies for each individual. For some, it may be a quiet home office, while others might find their creative juices flowing in a bustling café. The key is to identify what works best for you and to consistently utilize this space to bolster your writing motivation.

Embracing Feedback and Criticism

As writers, we pour our heart and soul into our work, which can make criticism hard to swallow. However, learning to accept feedback is instrumental in our growth as writers and can play a significant role in boosting our writing motivation.

Constructive feedback can help you identify areas of improvement, guiding your writing journey towards success. As you embrace critique, it becomes a source of writing motivation, pushing you to refine your craft and reach new heights.

The Role of Health and Well-being in Writing

In our quest to boost writing motivation, we often overlook the significance of our health and well-being. However, a healthy mind and body serve as the foundation for creativity. Lack of sleep, poor nutrition, or emotional stress can significantly impede our writing motivation.

Engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and ensuring adequate sleep can do wonders for your creative output. Furthermore, practices like meditation and mindfulness can also enhance focus and mental clarity, fueling your writing motivation in the process.

Building a Supportive Writing Community

As writers, we tend to thrive in solitude, but this can sometimes lead to isolation. Connecting with a supportive writing community can provide much-needed encouragement, feedback, and a sense of belonging. These interactions can act as a catalyst, boosting your writing motivation and helping you navigate the challenges of the writing process.

Writing groups, online forums, workshops, and seminars are great platforms to connect with fellow writers. Sharing experiences, gaining insights, and receiving constructive feedback from this community can be instrumental in enhancing your writing motivation.

Setting Goals and Celebrating Achievements

Setting tangible goals can serve as a roadmap guiding your writing journey. It gives you a clear direction, maintains focus, and most importantly, boosts your writing motivation. Whether it’s writing a certain number of words each day, completing a chapter in a week, or finishing a manuscript in a year, having clear goals gives you something concrete to work towards.

Equally important is celebrating your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Each milestone, each completed goal is a testament to your dedication and hard work. Celebrating these victories can immensely boost your writing motivation, encouraging you to keep pushing forward.

How to Get Motivated to Write a Story

Starting a new story can be exciting, but it can also be daunting. Sometimes the challenge is figuring out where to begin, how to develop your characters, or where your plot should go. Other times, it might just be a struggle to find the motivation to write a story.

The first step is to create a writing schedule. Consistency is key when it comes to writing, especially when you’re working on a story. By setting aside dedicated time each day or week for writing, you’re signaling to yourself that this task is important and worth your time.

Next, envision your story’s end. Having a clear goal in mind can be a powerful motivation to write a story. This doesn’t mean you need a detailed outline from start to finish, but knowing where you’re headed can help propel you forward.

Character development is a vital part of story writing. Get to know your characters as you would a friend. Understand their motivations, their strengths, their weaknesses, their desires. The more you understand your characters, the more real they will feel, and the more motivated you will be to bring their story to life.

Dive into the world of your story. Create a mental picture of the setting, immerse yourself in the details, the culture, the environment. The more connected you are to your story’s world, the more you’ll want to spend time there, enhancing your motivation to write a story.

Finally, don’t be afraid of the first draft. It’s supposed to be a rough representation of your story. Give yourself permission to write imperfectly. Remember, every writer, no matter how experienced, starts with a first draft. You can always edit a bad page, but you can’t edit a blank one.

Boosting your motivation to write a story often involves a combination of planning, passion, and patience. Each step you take forward, even if it feels small, is progress. Trust in the process, keep your vision clear, and let your creativity flow.

How to Motivate Yourself to Write an Essay

Essay writing can be a formidable task, especially when it’s hard to find the right motivation. Fortunately, with some strategic planning and a positive mindset, you can tackle this assignment head-on and find the motivation to write an essay.

The first step is to understand the purpose and the significance of your essay. Understanding why you are writing and how your essay could contribute to your academic or professional goals can be a significant motivator. Try visualizing the benefits of completing the essay, such as receiving a good grade, learning more about a topic you’re interested in, or improving your writing skills.

Next, break down your essay into manageable parts. This could include the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Planning out your essay and tackling each section one at a time can make the overall task seem less daunting and increase your motivation to write an essay.

Research plays a pivotal role in essay writing. Start by gathering your sources and extracting relevant information. The act of discovering new information can be exciting and can often spark interest and motivation. If your topic is something you’re genuinely curious about, even better.

One effective method is to create a rough outline. This helps in organizing your thoughts and gives you a roadmap to follow, which can be very motivating. You’ll see your progress as you complete each section, which can be incredibly satisfying.

Finally, set realistic goals for yourself and take regular breaks. Essay writing is a marathon, not a sprint. Trying to complete it in one go can be overwhelming and demotivating. Set a goal for each writing session, and once you reach it, reward yourself with a short break.

Finding the motivation to write an essay can be a challenge, but with the right mindset and strategies, it can become an enjoyable and rewarding process. Remember, every essay you write is a stepping stone to becoming a better writer and critical thinker. Keep going, stay focused, and you’ll get there.

How to Motivate Yourself to Write a Book

Writing a book is no small task. It requires dedication, passion, and, most of all, a lot of motivation. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, how to motivate yourself to write a book, these tips might just help you along the journey.

Firstly, recognize the reason you want to write a book. Is it to share a story that’s been burning inside you? Or perhaps to become an authority in your field? Identifying your “why” is a critical first step in fueling your motivation.

Secondly, develop a writing routine that suits your lifestyle. One of the major reasons people lose motivation to write a book is because they try to fit their writing into an irregular schedule. Consistency is key, and setting aside specific times to write each day or week can make a significant difference.

Breaking the book into smaller, manageable sections can make the task less overwhelming. Think about your book in terms of chapters, or even individual scenes. Celebrate each small victory as you complete these segments, and you’ll find your motivation naturally increasing.

Remember that writing a book is a journey. Like any long trip, it helps to have a roadmap. A clear outline of your book can guide you through the writing process and help you stay focused and motivated. Knowing where you’re going gives you a clear path to follow, reducing feelings of being overwhelmed or stuck.

Connecting with other writers can also be very inspiring. Join a local writers’ group or an online community. Hearing about others’ writing experiences, struggles, and victories can give you the push you need to keep going.

Lastly, don’t forget to reward yourself. Writing a book is a significant accomplishment. Celebrate your milestones, no matter how small they may seem. Each word, sentence, and paragraph brings you closer to your goal.

Above all, remember why you started this journey in the first place. Reconnecting with your initial spark of inspiration can rekindle your motivation when you’re feeling stuck. Writing a book is a marathon, not a sprint, so take your time, stay patient, and keep your motivation to write a book alive.

Exploring New Genres and Styles

Sometimes, a dip in writing motivation can simply be a sign of creative fatigue. Exploring new genres and styles can rekindle your interest and spark creativity. It not only breaks the monotony but also expands your writing skills, boosting your writing motivation in the process.

Dabbling in poetry when you usually write prose, or trying your hand at fantasy when you typically write realistic fiction, can provide a fresh perspective. Such experimentation can rejuvenate your writing motivation, equipping you with a renewed vigor to weave your stories.

As we delve into these strategies, it’s essential to remember that writing is a journey, not a race. Boosting writing motivation is about embracing this journey with all its ups and downs. It’s about evolving as a writer, one story, one word at a time. So keep exploring, keep experimenting, and let your writing motivation guide your way to countless stories waiting to be told.

The path to sustained writing motivation might seem elusive, but with the right strategies, it’s entirely attainable. Whether it’s creating an ideal writing environment or learning to embrace feedback, the journey to maintaining consistent creative motivation is deeply personal and unique to each writer.

Writing isn’t merely a task; it’s an exploration of our creative psyche. It’s about discovering our unique voice and sharing it with the world. And the key to this exploration lies in finding and maintaining our writing motivation. So, keep writing, keep exploring, and keep creating. Your next masterpiece is just around the corner.  

Click here to schedule your free book discovery call today!

9 Responses

' src=

This is a good article with tips for any writer. I’m in need of much motivation to keep up blogging for better.

' src=

This is a great article! Thank you for all the tips. I will start implementing your suggestions right away!

' src=

I am glad that I read your post. I just received news today that my university application has been accepted. As you know, a lot of essay writing will go on. I will visit your blog more often for excellent tips like this.

' src=

The focus on routine, feedback, and trying new genres for writing motivation is both practical and inspiring. Thanks for these actionable insights!

' src=

Loving this post and man have I experienced writers block more often than I’ve wanted. I’ve found that when it happens to just back away and give my brain a break. It helps me to get the motivation I need to start writing again.

' src=

I have had my share of writer’s block. Staring at my laptop, not knowing anything to write.

' src=

I am a writer but have never did anything other than writing essays that have been that big. I still enjoy reading, learning and writing.

LIfe is a motivator of its own with the changes it takes place and feelings involved ones writing style can also change. I love to write yet have yet to go beyond an essay but maybe one day. Reading, learning and life experiences all help with writing style being complete. THanks for sharing

' src=

Your post on finding and maintaining writing motivation is a valuable resource for writers who sometimes face challenges in staying inspired and productive. The tips and strategies you offer, along with your personal insights, provide practical guidance for overcoming writer’s block and staying motivated. Thanks for sharing this helpful piece – it’s a great source of encouragement and motivation for fellow writers. Keep up the excellent work in providing valuable advice for your audience!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

©  2024 The Writing King. Copyright © 2024 The Writing King

Goodbye Self Help text logo colourful

How to Get Motivated to Write an Essay: 9 Easy Steps

Writing essays is an essential part of school and college life, but most people dread writing them.

Especially if you’re not a prolific writer, it can be hard to structure them, to put pen to paper, and to get them done efficiently.

Staying focused on homework can be hard enough!

In this guide, I’m giving you my best tips for how to get motivated to write an essay, which assumes that you currently don’t have the motivation now.

Follow these steps to set up each of your essays, and then conquer them one by one.

You’ll find that once you do, you feel more accomplished, more able to stick to a plan, and much more able to stay focused on homework!

writing-essay-on-typewriter

Study Tools You Need RIght Now

need motivation to write an essay

1. Choose an Enjoyable Topic, if Possible

If you’re going to be motivated to write an essay, the easiest way to do so is by choosing a topic that means something to you.

Sure, some essays already have the topic handed out and in that case, you don’t have much of a choice, but many times you do.

You’ll be confined to a specific area, probably – whether it’s choosing an influential person in history, a book written by a woman, etc.

But within the bounds of what you can choose, make sure to choose something that is meaningful to you and gets you at least somewhat excited to research and explore the topic.

This helps you to feel like you’re motivated to write an essay because you genuinely want to learn more rather than being forced to.

2. Outline the Essay including the Introduction and Conclusion

In this step, you’re going to set up the essay to make it as easy as possible to think about.

This is one of my biggest tips when it comes to sticking to a plan .

This helps get you motivated to write the essay because it makes it seem less daunting.

Most essays have an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.

You need to work out how many body paragraphs you will need based on the points you are going to make in the essay.

Write this outline down to help you with the next step and to see that you can approach the essay by these individual sections rather than feeling like you need to sit down and just write an essay all at once.

writing-essay-on-notebook-paper

3. Chunk the Word Count Down

Once you have your outline down, it’s time to figure out how many words should go in each section.

For instance, if I were doing a 1000 word essay, I would probably do 100 for an introduction, 200 for 4 body paragraphs each and 100 for a conclusion.

However you break it down is up to you and how many words you want the final essay to be.

This seems like extra work up front, but writing an essay that is properly outlined and has word counts attached to it can give you motivation because you see that it is already starting to come together before you even start writing. Suddenly, it seems a lot easier and that’s what encourages us to forge ahead.

4. Break Down the Work Over Multiple Days

As long as you’re not someone who has waited until the last day to write your essay (and if you have then this is not for you), break down the work over multiple days and plan it out so it’s not all on one day.

For instance, if you had 5 days and 5 sections, you could do a section a day, or if you only have 2 days, you could split it up in half.

Use a tool like Click Up or Trello, found in my productivity tools list , to help you plan.

This means you don’t have to work up the motivation to write your essay all at once, but only have to work up the motivation to write a certain number of words, which some people find easier.

5. Organize Your Research and Notes

Figure out where your lack of motivation to write your essay is coming from.

Chances are, the whole thing seems overwhelming and that’s one of the reasons you don’t start.

I always like to organize my research into easy-to-read notes, and many times I’ve used index cards to write down each fact and then you can arrange the index cards into the structure you want your essay to take later on.

You have to first digest the material you have researched in order to put it into an essay, so make sure to do this crucial step in between researching and writing, otherwise you’ll be left with a pile of books with no notes and trying to write the essay from memory of exactly what the quote was about photosynthesis on page 66 on the book with the blue cover.

I know that these steps feel like they’re adding more stress to your essay writing experience, I promise that once you do them you will feel so much more motivated to get it done.

typewriter-to-write-an-essay

6. Look Up Quotes

Especially if you’re writing for a high school paper, a lot of times it can be a good idea to start with a quote in your introduction.

Regardless, looking for quotes surrounding your topic is a great idea to give yourself some inspiration to write an essay and give you the motivation to start.

Remember that the quote doesn’t always have to exactly be about your topic or have the exact wording of your topic, but maybe it’s from an important person that you’re writing about in your essay or they’re talking about a general concept that you’re including in your essay.

We’ve got some great options to get you started in these quotes on staying focused and these quotes on never giving up .

7. Read Related Essays or Past Essays

It’s unlikely this is your first essay, in which case you should read over your past essays to remind yourself how you structured them and look at examples of when you finished essays, including any feedback that teachers gave you.

You can also read related essays on the subject that you look up online or the teacher hands out from past students, but you need to be very careful to only read this and not make any notes that could lead to you plagiarizing, even on accident.

It may be an idea to read essays in an unrelated topic, just so you can get more ideas for structuring an essay but won’t be in danger of stealing someone else’s words or ideas.

8. Plan Writing Sessions with a Friend

If it’s truly the motivation to write the essay that you struggle with and not the difficulty, team up with a friend and plan writing sessions where you set goals for how far along in your essays you want to be by the end of it.

You shouldn’t share notes to the point that you end up with the same essay, but working across from someone who is also working on the essay can be a huge motivator so you don’t feel left behind.

This also works more broadly if you decide to work in the library where other people are also working on various assignments, as the atmosphere of productivity can be one of the things that encourages you to improve your own productivity even further.

books-on-writing-essays

9. Choose a Reward for When You Finish

If getting a good grade on the essay isn’t a good enough motivator, choose a reward for yourself for when you finish the essay to help keep you motivated to study .

It could be a cake that you bake yourself, it could be a friend that you hang out with, it could be a weekend trip you plan.

It could be something small like a television show you watch or, if the essay is part of a longer string of assignments, taking an hour break afterwards.

Whatever it is, push yourself through writing the essay in order to get to the reward at the end.

How to Get Motivated to Write an Essay: 9 Easy Steps via @allamericanatlas

Subscribe for new content!

I agree to receive email updates and promotions.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

The Write Practice

Motivation to Write: The 7 Fundamental Needs of Writers And How to Leverage Their Motivational Power

by Jeff Elkins | 0 comments

If you write long enough, at some point you are going to experience a lag in productivity. Whether you call it “writer’s block” or “resistance” or just “a slump,” the moment will come when you struggle to put words on the page, and you just can't find motivation to write through the struggle. One way to overcome that lag is to lean into what motivates you.

Motivation to Write: The 7 Fundamental Needs of Writers And How to Leverage Their Motivational Power

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

In 1943 in his paper “The Theory of Human Motivation,” Abraham Maslow proposed that our needs fall into a hierarchy. Maslow said that we pursue physiological needs first, then our need for safety, then our need for belonging, then our need for approval and acceptance, and then finally our need for self-actualization.

The basic idea behind Maslow’s Hierarchy is that we are motivated by our needs. Maslow believed that the most basic needs must be met before a person could devote energy to the higher needs.

I think this is true for us as writers as well. We are motivated by foundational needs that drive our desire to write .

But rather than those needs falling into a hierarchy we all share, I believe there are seven foundational needs writers have.

We each experience one or more of these foundational needs. These needs aren't necessarily better or worse than one another. They are simply different.

My goal with this article is not to present a polished theory of author motivations. I didn’t work through a data-driven scientific process to develop these seven needs. I built this list through self-examination and observation of other writers.

Rather, my goal is to provide a potential path out of a slump.

If we understand what our foundational needs are, we can leverage those needs to push through difficult times in writing. My hope is that by reading through these seven categories of needs, you will see yourself in a few of them, and then be able to use those needs as a tool to increase your productivity as a writer.

The 7 Fundamental Needs of Writers

In myself and my friends who write, I’ve noticed the following seven foundational needs driving our productivity:

1. The Need for Narrative Fulfillment

I was told from a young age that I was a good singer. My mother often signed me up for choirs and volunteered me to sing solos in church. When I went away to college, I started as a music major because I had this deep need to know if what I’d been told and what I believed about my musical ability was true. As a child, I’d been told a story — you are a musician — and I needed to finish it.

It took me a year to figure out that I was not meant to major in music and that being a musician was not my story.

The writers I’ve met who feel this way talk about how they began writing at a young age. They started scrolling down stories as soon as they were able to write. This founding story created a need in them to finish the narrative of the young kid who was a writer at a young age.

If this is you . . .

When you hit a slump in your writing and need motivation to write, remind yourself that this is part of who you are. This is your story. You’ve been writing since you were young. This is who you are. It might be hard at the moment, but that will pass. So sit down and get to work.

2. The Need for Self-Understanding

I am a mystery to myself. Often I am surprised by my own feelings or thoughts. Routinely I don’t know how I feel about something until I sit down to write about it. My thoughts crystalize when I write.

In this way, writing is about self-discovery.

The writers I’ve met who feel this way will often talk about writing to discover something about themselves. They feel like there is something beautiful hiding inside of them and the only way to release it is to write it out of its cage. It is as if they are sculptors standing in front of unshaped marble and writing is their hammer and chisel.

When you hit a slump in your writing and need motivation to write, remind yourself that you are just at a tough part of the marble, but that there is something beautiful lurking under the surface, and the only way to get it out is to start banging away at it.

3. The Need to Champion a Cause

The prophet Jeremiah said his prophecy was like a fire in bones. He couldn’t possibly hold it inside. It had to come out or it would burn him alive. Jeremiah had a message that he couldn’t help but share.

The writers I’ve met that feel this way are often obsessed with a single topic. Even if they want to diversify, they can’t. Everything they write eventually comes back to their message.

I’ve heard journalists talk this way about the truth. It is something they have to uncover. They can’t let it alone.

I’ve heard fiction writers talk this way about certain characters. No matter how hard they try, their protagonist always takes a certain shape or battles a specific issue.

When you hit a slump in your writing and need motivation to write, go back to your message. Pretend you are sharing it with someone for the first time. Relish in it. Let your passion for it fuel your work.

4. The Need to Fulfill a Calling

When I was in seminary, I heard a lot of people talk about “calling.” The idea behind calling is that there is some force outside of you (your god, or the muses, or something unknown) that is urging you to do something.

Many of my fellow students at seminary would talk about how they struggled with this call. They didn’t want it at first and wished they could reject it, but the voice continued to urge them forward.

The writers I’ve met that feel this way often can’t pinpoint why they want to write; they just know they can’t escape this voice that continues to call to them. It is different from the need for narrative fulfillment because it isn’t about a story they’ve started with their lives. In fact, sometimes this calling is a diversion from the path they’ve been on.

These writers feel pulled by something outside of themselves.

When you hit a slump in your writing and need motivation to write, ask the force calling you if you are done. If the answer is “yes,” then breathe a sigh of relief. If the answer is “no,” then stop fighting your calling, embrace it, and get back to work.

5. The Need to Measure Up

After discovering I had no business studying music in college, I started preparing for medical school by changing my major to fit a pre-medical studies emphasis. My father was a famous surgeon. He died the summer after my sophomore year and I felt I needed to somehow follow in his footsteps. I had a deep desire to measure up to him.

The writers I’ve met that feel this way have a history of writing. They have family members who write, or they’ve been to school for writing, or they have parents urging them to write.

This need is based on exterior expectations. Those expectations may be tangible or self-applied. Either way, these writers have a need to meet them.

When you hit a slump in your writing and need motivation to write, use those expectations to push you forward. People are counting on you. People believe in you. You have a legacy to fulfill. Like a prince with a kingdom to rule, take your place on the throne and get to work.

6. The Need to Belong

I played football in high school. Our team was amazing. We went to the state championship game multiple times. Several of my classmates went on to play in the NFL.

I, on the other hand, was terrible. I spent most seasons on the bench. I was okay with that because I wasn’t actually there for the football. I was there for the camaraderie. I played because I loved being a part of the team.

The writers I’ve met that feel this way love being a part of editing groups . This doesn't mean they are bad writers like I was a bad football player. Many of them are amazing writers.

It's just not the writing that is driving them.

They love sharing their writing with fellow writers. They love commiserating and discussing ideas. They love message boards and social networking groups.

For them, writing is as much about belonging to a group of writers as it is about the writing.

When you hit a slump in your writing and need motivation to write,  reach out to other writers and ask them what they are working on. Offer to read their work. Let their energy feed your fire. Ask them to hold you accountable. Embrace the fact that writing is a team sport for you.

7. The Need to Serve Others

While I discover things about myself when I write and I have some soapboxes I like to stand on, I started writing fiction as a way to bring extra money into the house.

I’ve got five kids. Four years ago, I lost my job and for a brief moment, I had no idea how I was going to care for their needs. As I searched for a new job, I desperately looked for something I could do that might become a secondary source of income so that if I found myself unemployed again, I wouldn't be stuck with nothing.

Writing was the only thing I was capable of doing.

There are moments I love writing and there are moments I hate writing. I didn’t write as a child and there isn’t a history of writing in my family. I’ve got people depending on me, people I love deeply, and I don’t have many talents besides my ability to tell stories. Writing is one way I serve them .

When you hit a slump in your writing and need motivation to write, picture the people you are writing for. Imagine them and let your commitment to them fuel your writing. Picture them in your mind, remember how much you love them , and then let your writing flow as an act of service.

Motivation to Write

It is likely as you read through this list that you found yourself in more than one of the seven foundational needs. That’s great because it gives you more needs to leverage when you get into a slump. No one need is better than another. They are all simply tools we can use to push us forward.

It is also possible that you didn’t find yourself in any of the needs I listed above. If that’s true, I’d love to hear what is motivating you. Tell us in the comments what pushes you to write and how you use it to motivate your work.

What motivates you to write?  Let us know in the comments .

Take a moment and focus on your foundational need. With that need in mind, give yourself a motivational pep talk. Then, free write about anything that comes to mind.

Write for fifteen minutes . Without editing, share your work in the comments . Be sure to leave feedback for your fellow writers, too!

' src=

Jeff Elkins

Jeff Elkins is a writer who lives Baltimore with his wife and five kids. If you enjoy his writing, he'd be honored if you would subscribe to his free monthly newsletter . All subscribers receive a free copy of Jeff's urban fantasy novella "The Window Washing Boy."

How to Prepare for Writing a Book: 4 Steps

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Submit Comment

Join over 450,000 readers who are saying YES to practice. You’ll also get a free copy of our eBook 14 Prompts :

Popular Resources

Best Resources for Writers Book Writing Tips & Guides Creativity & Inspiration Tips Writing Prompts Grammar & Vocab Resources Best Book Writing Software ProWritingAid Review Writing Teacher Resources Publisher Rocket Review Scrivener Review Gifts for Writers

Books By Our Writers

The Girl Who Wrote on Water

You've got it! Just us where to send your guide.

Enter your email to get our free 10-step guide to becoming a writer.

You've got it! Just us where to send your book.

Enter your first name and email to get our free book, 14 Prompts.

Want to Get Published?

Enter your email to get our free interactive checklist to writing and publishing a book.

Top tips for staying motivated while writing essays

So, you’re staring at a blank word document yet again, desperate for anything that can motivate you and get your essay finished at this all important time. Fortunately, we have got those all-important motivational tips to get you through this tough time and fill up that blank document with the 2,000 words due next week.

1. Cut Out All Distractions

We all do it. Take a quick look at Facebook, catch up on a group chat or watch a quick video and suddenly it’s been 20 minutes. It might be a simple fix, but the best thing you can do is block out all distractions, even if you’re really tempted. Just think, the sooner you can get your essay finished, the sooner you can escape the clutches of the library and enjoy your freedom!

2. Drinks and Snacks

Keep your energy levels up. Raid the shops for their finest sweets, energy drinks or anything to keep you awake. Keep your fluids up and drink plenty of water! However, we do recommend not drinking too many energy drinks - you'll be buzzing all night long. 

3. Set a quota

Decide before you start working on how much you’re going to write. The key to this is deciding how many words you’re going to get down, rather than how much time you’re going to spend doing it as it’s likely most of it will take up doing research and reading books.

4. Think about your investment

If all else fails, remind yourself that you’re paying £9,000 a year to study for your degree (it works out at about £250 per seminar/lecture) . Realising that you’re getting in huge debts should give you that all needed drive to finish your essay on time and make it the best it can be.

Sign up with

Or login with your details

need motivation to write an essay

6 Writing Motivation Tips That Work (Even if You’re Busy)

by Silvia Bastos

on Aug 22, 2024

Feeling low on writing motivation? All you need is the right toolkit. Here are six tips that’ll change your writing game forever.

You have lots of ideas you want to share with the world, but


The motivation to sit down and write just isn’t there.

You open your laptop with great intentions, but end up getting trapped by your Instagram feed.

Maybe you even start writing — but ten minutes later succumb to an uncontrollable urge to get up and organize your spice rack.

Or perhaps you’re just tired. And who can blame you? You have so much going on in your life that when you get home from work all you need is your couch and your Netflix — not more work.

Therefore, you can’t help but wonder:

How do other bloggers and writers find enough motivation to write every day and finish writing entire articles and books?

Here’s the truth you don’t hear that often:

Writing Motivation Doesn’t Just Happen: You Have To Go Get It

Most successful freelance writers  and bloggers have busy lives too.

Surprising as it may seem, they also struggle with tiredness, procrastination, and lack of writing motivation. No matter how successful you become, you will always have days when you feel uninspired, overcome with imposter syndrome , or when even watching the grass grow will seem more fun than writing.

So… what’s the secret?

It’s simple:

You can’t just rely on writing motivation to magically appear — you need to know how to create it .

The good news is, this is often easier than you think.

6 Hacks to Help You Regain Your Writing Motivation

Imagine that you’re building a new shelf. If you realize you have the wrong screwdriver for those screws, do you sit in misery and hope the problem will solve itself?

Of course not. You probably wouldn’t waste hours trying to force the screwdriver until it fits, either.

No, you would go to the shop and either buy new screws, or a new screwdriver (or if you’re lazy like me, go through all your kitchen knives and see if any does the trick).

The same happens with writing: when you feel stuck, you just need to find the right tool that will get you unstuck. And very often, if you hit the nail in the head ( pun intended), you’ll be back into a flow in a matter of minutes.

Here are six very simple tips and mindset tweaks that have not only helped me regain writing motivation in my toughest moments, but also allowed me to create my best work ever.

1. Find Your Why, Then Stick With a How

For the first few months after I started my blog , I felt lost and unmotivated.

I kept reading articles about writing and blogging and trying different strategies a few days at a time, until I realized I was seeing no results.

It was frustrating.

Eventually, tired of shifting and indecision, I decided to invest in a blogging course — and everything changed. Sure, I could probably find all the advice I wanted online; but committing to one method and following it through to the end helped me eliminate all my doubts, stress, and decision pressure, and as a consequence my mind was finally free to be creative.

However, having a strategy isn’t enough.

Yes, taking that course has led me to develop my voice, write hundreds of articles, get thousands of subscribers, and sell my first online course. Without it, I wouldn’t be where I am.

But the truth is, despite technically knowing the path, I still lose motivation sometimes. I still get tired, busy, and stuck, and I still have bad days. In those moments, what keeps me going is knowing my purpose as a writer: to touch, inspire, and share knowledge that will help my readers become the best version of themselves.

To me, building a solid foundation of writing motivation takes two steps:

Ask yourself why you want to write

What’s the change you want to make in your readers? How will writing improve your life? How will it fulfill you? What’s the dream that will fuel your motivation on this journey?

Writer Benjamin Hardy created a journaling exercise where you identify something you want, and then you ask yourself “What about __________ is important to me?” enough times until you get to the “deepest why” behind it.

Here’s an example:

[Thing I want:] Writing. [Question:] What about writing is important to me? [Thing I want:] Expressing myself. [Question:] What about expressing myself is important to me? [Thing I want:] Sharing my experiences with others. [Question:] What about sharing my experiences with others is important to me? [Thing I want:] Making people feel seen and understood. [Question:] What about making people feel seen and understood is important to me? [Thing I want:] Bringing awareness to our shared humanity and making the world a better, kinder place.

Whether your dream is self-publishing a bestseller on Amazon or starting a blog to support people with breast cancer, set writing goals that mean something to you, and then…

Find a strategy that allows you to fulfill your why

Exploring different alternatives and learning from different sources is useful when you start, but if you want to see real results, at some point you’ll have to choose one strategy and stick with it. Therefore, find a course, a program, or a method, and follow it through to the end.

It doesn’t matter if it’s the best one out there — what matters is that it will remove stress and decision fatigue, and you’ll stay at one thing for long enough until it starts working.

Key takeaways:

  • Ask yourself why  you want to write (use the “deepest why” exercise to help you);
  • Find a strategy that allows you to fulfill your why and stick it without getting derailed.

2. Spice It Up

Sometimes, no matter how sure we are about our purpose and strategy, we will still face most writers’ worst enemy:

Writer’s block .

When I get stuck with a difficult article, it can be hell to make myself go back to work the next day.

There’s nothing more demotivating than believing that you’ll never be able to write anything good again, that you’re a fraud and all your ideas suck.

It was Anne Lamott’s mind-shifting perspective on writer’s block that changed it all for me:

“I no longer think of it as block. I think that is looking at the problem from the wrong angle. If your wife locks you out of the house, you don’t have a problem with your door. The word block suggests that you are constipated or stuck, when the truth is that you’re empty.” — Anne Lammot in Bird By Bird: Instructions On Writing And Life

Next time you feel out of ideas or can’t solve a problem, try to fill that emptiness with something fresh by spicing up your writing routine.

For example, I often struggle with getting my brain going first thing in the morning. Therefore, instead of starting with my most important work, I often start the day by replying to emails from subscribers. This removes the pressure to be perfect and makes me confident that I can type something that doesn’t totally suck.

Here are a few ideas you can use:

  • If you write nonfiction articles for a living, spice it up with some creative writing  exercises ;
  • If you’re working on a long novel, take a break to work on your metaphor skills ;
  • If you usually type on your computer, grab a journal or fill a stack of note cards with ideas instead;
  • If you work from home, spend the day writing at a coffee shop;
  • If you’re used to reading books and articles for writing inspiration, try listening to a writing podcast , watching a movie, or going to an art exhibition instead;
  • If you’ve been stuck for hours and nothing comes out, take a break.

Key takeaway:

When facing writer’s block, freshen up your writing routine with some new elements.

3. Take It One Step At a Time

One of the most common ways to lose your writing motivation is by setting big goals in a moment of optimism and then end up feeling overwhelmed.

I recently set myself a goal to write 50 guest posts in the space of two months.

Most of my writer friends tell me I’m crazy. Some days I agree, and I can feel my heart skipping a beat at the thought of the challenge ahead of me.

But there is one thing that keeps me sane:

Focusing on the next small step.

After some thinking and planning, I decided that the first step towards writing 50 guest posts was to write three headlines a day until I had a list of 50. So I just focused on that first step and chose not to worry about the rest until the right time came.

“Write three headlines” is not as scary as “start writing 50 guest posts.”

As I saw my progress, my motivation kept growing. To make sure I kept at it, I tracked my progress in my journal. Then, I gradually added more complex goals:

  • Reading five blog posts a day,
  • Writing for three hours in the morning,
  • Sending one pitch per day,
  • Keeping track of my word count,

The key is to build up gradually: start really simple, build consistency, let that fuel your confidence, and then keep placing one foot in front of the other.

  • Set a clear goal (bonus: write it down where you can see it every day);
  • Define the steps you need to take to get there;
  • Focus on one step at a time.

4. Big Problems First

Before I started working on my 50 guest posts goal, I was writing on average one article every two weeks. Now, I have to gradually build up to two per day.

The amount of writing time I have available hasn’t changed — therefore, the only option was to write faster.

In her book 2,000 to 10,000 , Rachel Aaron explained how she increased her writing speed to 10,000 words in a single day by spending five minutes before every writing session deciding what she would be writing about and scribbling it on a piece of paper.

“I didn’t describe anything, I didn’t do transitions or dialog, I wasn’t writing, I was simply noting down what I would write when the time came,” she explains.

As it has been proven that our brains are at their most creative first thing in the morning , I applied Aaron’s brilliant writing tip  and started outlining my articles in my journal before breakfast.

Let me tell you this: never before has a 15-minute writing tip made me so clear-headed and inspired to start my writing day. Not only has this removed a lot of my resistance to start writing, but it also increased my writing speed from 500 to up to 1,500 words per hour.

Nothing will motivate you more than knowing exactly what you’ll be writing about before you start writing it — after that, all you need to do is type it.

Spend five minutes before each writing session thinking about what you are going to write; this will make it easier to get you started.

5. Create Your Focus Vortex

It’s time to address the elephant in the room:

How do you fight the procrastination that keeps you from writing?

The lure of just another YouTube video, the popping notification, the inviting weather outside


Distractions can be one of the main culprits in keeping you from writing.

In an interview with Tim Ferris , Neil Gaiman shared his writing motivation secret that keeps him from procrastinating. It goes like this:

In order to make himself write, he takes his notepad to his cabin in the garden where there is absolutely nothing to do. There, he gives himself two options: he can either write, or do nothing at all. Eventually, doing nothing becomes too boring, and writing becomes the most appealing option.

I don’t have a cabin (or a garden, for that matter), but I have earphones: when I want to focus, I put on some music, and I stick a post-it to my laptop letting people know that I’m in my focus vortex and I can’t be disturbed.

The result? Reducing distractions is a great motivator: not only do I achieve more in less time, but I have much more fun in the process.

Create a writing environment that is free of distractions and encourages focus.

6. Fuel Your Mind

Productivity and motivation require an energized mind. Having an energized mind requires an energized body.

Do you see what I’m getting at? This might seem out of place, but it’s probably the most important item on this list: if you want to stay motivated, you need to fuel your body and your mind with the right foods, regular movement, and inspiring food for thought.

When I started noticing how intimately my health and well-being were connected to my productivity and writing motivation, I gradually started tweaking my habits and routine to optimize my creative power.

Here are a few changes I made:

  • Whenever I feel tired and unmotivated, instead of drinking coffee or stressing out, I drink a glass of water and do a sun salutation — it works like magic!
  • As I’m more productive in the morning, I started waking up at 5:30 every day and spend around an hour writing on my journal to unlock new ideas and brainstorm problems;
  • Every day after breakfast I take a walk with my partner where we discuss ideas for our blog, which keeps us fit and allows us to come up with our best ideas.

I’m not telling you to do the same things as me; all I’m saying is that there is a connection between body and mind.

So get up from the couch, roll your shoulders back, drink a tall glass of orange juice, and take a walk around your neighborhood while you listen to your favorite motivational speaker.

Fuel your mind and body with good foods, physical movement, and intellectually nourishing activities.

Reignite Your Writing Motivation

Whether you feel lazy, unmotivated to write, facing writer’s block, or simply stuck in a procrastination whole, the problem is not you: all you need is to find the right tool to get you unstuck.

Therefore, after you finish reading this article, don’t get trapped in a self-commiseration loop; instead, pick one of the steps above and commit to giving it a try today.

And who knows — your best work might be just around the corner.

Mindset , Writing

Photo of author

Silvia Bastos

The ultimate toolkit for becoming one of the highest-paid writers online. Premium training. Yours for free.

Written by silvia bastos, latest from the blog.

need motivation to write an essay

How to Increase Website Traffic (& Get 200+ Million Visitors)

need motivation to write an essay

Copywriter Salary: Hourly, Daily, Weekly, & Monthly Rates (2024)

need motivation to write an essay

10 Social Media Campaigns to Inspire Your Own in 2024

need motivation to write an essay

With over 300k subscribers and 4 million readers, Smart Blogger is one of the world's largest websites dedicated to writing and blogging.

Best of the Blog

© 2012-2024 Smart Blogger — Boost Blog Traffic, Inc.

Terms  |  Privacy Policy  |  Refund Policy  |  Affiliate Disclosure

help for assessment

  • Customer Reviews
  • Extended Essays
  • IB Internal Assessment
  • Theory of Knowledge
  • Literature Review
  • Dissertations
  • Essay Writing
  • Research Writing
  • Assignment Help
  • Capstone Projects
  • College Application
  • Online Class

How To Get Motivated to Write An Essay: 5+ Useful Tips for You

Author Image

by  Antony W

February 16, 2023

how to get motivated to write an essay explained

There’s no magic bullet to writing essays that inspire . And that means it’s an assignment that’s easier said than done. But before you find the task boring, let us show you how to get motivated to write an essay. 

Everyday, hundreds of students struggle to write essays, whichever the type. They’ll mostly read the prompt, make short notes from it, do research, and create an essay outline. Then when it comes to the actual writing, they go blank, completely.

Isn’t that a familiar situation? And can you relate with it?

Unfortunately, writer’s block is something every student will grapple with at one point in time. But that doesn’t mean it’s hard to beat.

So in this guide, I’ll give you some handy tips you can use to write comprehensive essays, even when you feel like you don’t have the motivation to put your claims, ideas, and arguments on a paper.

No motivation to write an essay yourself? No problem. Our experts are here to get you the help you need. Click the link below and let us help. 

How to Get Motivated To Write An Essay And Finish On Time

Below are simple tips that can help you write high quality essays in the shortest time possible, even if means you’re in your very last minutes.

1. Create an Essay Outline First

Even if you’ve done the finest research and you have a way with words, your essay won’t mean anything much to your instructor if it doesn’t feature an outline.

It doesn’t matter what type of essay the prompt requires you to write. You’ll need to create an outline to handle the assignment.

Irrespective of the essay word limit, you want to divide your essay into three sections: the opening paragraph, the body paragraphs, and the concluding paragraphs. That's the  perfect essay outline   you will ever need. 

The body section can have as many paragraphs as possible, usually depending less on the word limit and more on the arguments you’d like to present.

And an outline is an important element for one very important reason: It helps you to organize your thoughts in a manner that makes sense, making the essay easy to read right from the introduction to the final full stop.

2. Read the Prompt, Do Research First and then Write, Don’t Do All at the Same Time

Essay writing can be as hard and boring AF if you do everything at once. But since you’re interested in making the process as flawless, engaging, and interesting as possible, consider doing the assignment in parts.

First, read the prompt to understand what your professor requires. The prompt may be long or short depending on the topic in question.

In any case, you want to make short notes in a notebook or notepad so you have only the most important information at your fingertips.

Step away from the assignment for a few hours and then go to the second step.

Second, do your research. Collect as much information as possible from the best scholarly sources. List your primary and secondary sources in a bibliography as these will be your references as you write.

Again, take a break from the assignment for a few hours. Come back later and move om to the third step.

Third, come back and write your essay. At this point, you have read the prompt, made short notes of the most important points, and completed your research. All that’s left is to write your essay.

As you can see, we’ve divided this into three sections, each with a few hours break in between. This is important because it break down the monotony of writing the assignment in one sitting and makes the project interesting to work on.

3. Write Your Essay in Bits

It’s possible to write a long essay on one sitting, but that’s not something you can do if you don’t have the motivation to complete the assignment in one night.

So instead of pouring all your energy to the paper and getting bored when you’re only halfway done, consider writing in parts.

This isn’t about how much time you’re going to spend writing. It’s about how many words you can get down within a given period.

First, use the essay outline and the information collected from research to create a rough draft. Introduce the topic, highlight your thoughts (arguments) in a logical order in the body section, and then write a strong conclusion for the essay.

Take a short break and come back to the essay later. Now write it in-depth, making sure you provide sufficient academic evidence to back up your arguments or support your claims.

4. Ask Your Course Mates to Help You Understand the Topic

Some students lack the motivation to write essays because they can’t understand the topic provided in the prompt.

If this is anything like you, then you should consider asking for help from your fellow students.

While you may not understand the topic in question, there’s a high chance that your fellow students understand the concept. So spend some time discussing the assignment with them.

Don’t forget to ask questions where necessary, as this will not only clear your doubts about the topic but also allow you to collect some strong points that you can include while proofreading your essay .

 5. Write in the Best Writing Spot

Your usual spot may not be fit for writing all types of essays, and especially the more complicated ones.

Maybe sometimes you’re too bored to sit in the same environment and get the essay done. In such a case changing location can be a motivating factor.

It doesn’t matter if you’ll write the essay from under a tree, in your bedroom, in the library, or in your friend’s classroom. Just find a spot that you find comfortable for the moment.

Some students even write better with the music on. This is especially true if you’re around other students and want to cancel out noise coming from the surroundings. If you prefer this option, you can get yourself some noise cancelling headphones.

6. Seek Academic Writing Assistance

 There’s more to writing an essay than just putting words on a paper. And to be honest, the task is almost always overwhelming.

Do you need help with your Essay? 

Get in touch with your professional team of writers. 

So if you lack the motivation to write the paper because it’s too demanding, you can seek for essay writing help from Help for Assessment.

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

Would you like to explore a topic?

  • LEARNING OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL

Or read some of our popular articles?

Free downloadable english gcse past papers with mark scheme.

  • 19 May 2022

The Best Free Homeschooling Resources UK Parents Need to Start Using Today

  • Joseph McCrossan
  • 18 February 2022

How Will GCSE Grade Boundaries Affect My Child’s Results?

  • Akshat Biyani
  • 13 December 2021

How to Write the Perfect Essay: A Step-By-Step Guide for Students

 alt=

  • June 2, 2022

need motivation to write an essay

  • What is an essay? 

What makes a good essay?

Typical essay structure, 7 steps to writing a good essay, a step-by-step guide to writing a good essay.

Whether you are gearing up for your GCSE coursework submissions or looking to brush up on your A-level writing skills, we have the perfect essay-writing guide for you. 💯

Staring at a blank page before writing an essay can feel a little daunting . Where do you start? What should your introduction say? And how should you structure your arguments? They are all fair questions and we have the answers! Take the stress out of essay writing with this step-by-step guide – you’ll be typing away in no time. đŸ‘©â€đŸ’»

student-writing

What is an essay?

Generally speaking, an essay designates a literary work in which the author defends a point of view or a personal conviction, using logical arguments and literary devices in order to inform and convince the reader.

So – although essays can be broadly split into four categories: argumentative, expository, narrative, and descriptive – an essay can simply be described as a focused piece of writing designed to inform or persuade. đŸ€”

The purpose of an essay is to present a coherent argument in response to a stimulus or question and to persuade the reader that your position is credible, believable and reasonable. 👌

So, a ‘good’ essay relies on a confident writing style – it’s clear, well-substantiated, focussed, explanatory and descriptive . The structure follows a logical progression and above all, the body of the essay clearly correlates to the tile – answering the question where one has been posed. 

But, how do you go about making sure that you tick all these boxes and keep within a specified word count? Read on for the answer as well as an example essay structure to follow and a handy step-by-step guide to writing the perfect essay – hooray. 🙌

Sometimes, it is helpful to think about your essay like it is a well-balanced argument or a speech – it needs to have a logical structure, with all your points coming together to answer the question in a coherent manner. ⚖

Of course, essays can vary significantly in length but besides that, they all follow a fairly strict pattern or structure made up of three sections. Lean into this predictability because it will keep you on track and help you make your point clearly. Let’s take a look at the typical essay structure:  

#1 Introduction

Start your introduction with the central claim of your essay. Let the reader know exactly what you intend to say with this essay. Communicate what you’re going to argue, and in what order. The final part of your introduction should also say what conclusions you’re going to draw – it sounds counter-intuitive but it’s not – more on that below. 1ïžâƒŁ

Make your point, evidence it and explain it. This part of the essay – generally made up of three or more paragraphs depending on the length of your essay – is where you present your argument. The first sentence of each paragraph – much like an introduction to an essay – should summarise what your paragraph intends to explain in more detail. 2ïžâƒŁ

#3 Conclusion

This is where you affirm your argument – remind the reader what you just proved in your essay and how you did it. This section will sound quite similar to your introduction but – having written the essay – you’ll be summarising rather than setting out your stall. 3ïžâƒŁ

No essay is the same but your approach to writing them can be. As well as some best practice tips, we have gathered our favourite advice from expert essay-writers and compiled the following 7-step guide to writing a good essay every time. 👍

#1 Make sure you understand the question

#2 complete background reading.

#3 Make a detailed plan 

#4 Write your opening sentences 

#5 flesh out your essay in a rough draft, #6 evidence your opinion, #7 final proofread and edit.

Now that you have familiarised yourself with the 7 steps standing between you and the perfect essay, let’s take a closer look at each of those stages so that you can get on with crafting your written arguments with confidence . 

This is the most crucial stage in essay writing – r ead the essay prompt carefully and understand the question. Highlight the keywords – like ‘compare,’ ‘contrast’ ‘discuss,’ ‘explain’ or ‘evaluate’ – and let it sink in before your mind starts racing . There is nothing worse than writing 500 words before realising you have entirely missed the brief . 🧐

Unless you are writing under exam conditions , you will most likely have been working towards this essay for some time, by doing thorough background reading. Re-read relevant chapters and sections, highlight pertinent material and maybe even stray outside the designated reading list, this shows genuine interest and extended knowledge. 📚

#3 Make a detailed plan

Following the handy structure we shared with you above, now is the time to create the ‘skeleton structure’ or essay plan. Working from your essay title, plot out what you want your paragraphs to cover and how that information is going to flow. You don’t need to start writing any full sentences yet but it might be useful to think about the various quotes you plan to use to substantiate each section. 📝

Having mapped out the overall trajectory of your essay, you can start to drill down into the detail. First, write the opening sentence for each of the paragraphs in the body section of your essay. Remember – each paragraph is like a mini-essay – the opening sentence should summarise what the paragraph will then go on to explain in more detail. đŸ–Šïž

Next, it's time to write the bulk of your words and flesh out your arguments. Follow the ‘point, evidence, explain’ method. The opening sentences – already written – should introduce your ‘points’, so now you need to ‘evidence’ them with corroborating research and ‘explain’ how the evidence you’ve presented proves the point you’re trying to make. ✍

With a rough draft in front of you, you can take a moment to read what you have written so far. Are there any sections that require further substantiation? Have you managed to include the most relevant material you originally highlighted in your background reading? Now is the time to make sure you have evidenced all your opinions and claims with the strongest quotes, citations and material. 📗

This is your final chance to re-read your essay and go over it with a fine-toothed comb before pressing ‘submit’. We highly recommend leaving a day or two between finishing your essay and the final proofread if possible – you’ll be amazed at the difference this makes, allowing you to return with a fresh pair of eyes and a more discerning judgment. đŸ€“

If you are looking for advice and support with your own essay-writing adventures, why not t ry a free trial lesson with GoStudent? Our tutors are experts at boosting academic success and having fun along the way. Get in touch and see how it can work for you today. 🎒

1-May-12-2023-09-09-32-6011-AM

Popular posts

Student studying for a English GCSE past paper

  • By Guy Doza

girl learning at home

  • By Joseph McCrossan
  • In LEARNING TRENDS

gcse exam paper

  • By Akshat Biyani

student taking gcse exam

What are the Hardest GCSEs? Should You Avoid or Embrace Them?

  • By Clarissa Joshua

homeschooling mum and child

4 Surprising Disadvantages of Homeschooling

  • By Andrea Butler

Want to try tutoring? Request a free trial session with a top tutor.

More great reads:.

Benefits of Reading: Positive Impacts for All Ages Everyday

Benefits of Reading: Positive Impacts for All Ages Everyday

  • May 26, 2023

15 of the Best Children's Books That Every Young Person Should Read

15 of the Best Children's Books That Every Young Person Should Read

  • By Sharlene Matharu
  • March 2, 2023

Ultimate School Library Tips and Hacks

Ultimate School Library Tips and Hacks

  • By Natalie Lever
  • March 1, 2023

Book a free trial session

Sign up for your free tutoring lesson..

Don't waste your time. I have already found the best essay company and agreed on a 15% discount on the first order. Enjoy!

  • 9 Tips for Writing a Brilliant Motivational Essay

Whether you are a high school student caught in the crossroads of your educational journey or an undergraduate debating on a graduate degree, several steps must be taken, from choosing a college or master’s program to applying for your dream job.

On the other hand, choosing is the easy part; getting into the college of your choice is a different story. Most colleges and universities require students to have excellent grades and write a motivational essay describing why they want to pursue his\her desired major at their university.

Writing college motivational essays is a required part of any educational institution’s application process. Then again, some employers require job applicants to submit inspirational articles along with their resumes.

A motivational statement allows you to show off a little more of your personality and explain why you are qualified for the university course or job position in question. This is an opportunity to stand out and demonstrate your integrity and your ability to turn your knowledge into a successful career.

This article will teach you how to write a motivational essay that will help you get into your dream university or land your dream job.

Table of Contents

9 Tips to Write a Motivational Letter

need motivation to write an essay

There are a few things to keep in mind when writing inspirational statements to help you write a good paper. Many students struggle to find the motivation to write an article or are simply stumped when asked “What motivates you in life?”. Motivational papers are not as complicated as you may believe. To write a perfect inspiration paper, use the following tips:

1. Research the Institution to which you are applying

It is not in your best interest to simply copy and paste motivational essay examples or templates from the internet. The first step is to learn how merit-based admissions work at your preferred college. If you already have outstanding grades, you have to figure out what other aspects of your life could boost those grades.

Many universities, for example, seek students who have good grades, participate in extracurricular activities, have some volunteer experience, and are involved in social initiatives in school and their community.

Researching your preferred university will assist you in writing a tailored inspirational essay that will showcase all of your personality and goals. It’ll also broadcast how your social and volunteer work will continue to be a factor when you get into the university. Knowing about the university and including that information in your inspirational paper will be a breath of fresh air for the reader. It will give them the impression that you are confident in your decision.

Be sure to sprinkle some positivity and determination in your motivational statement.

2.  Be Creative

I know this may seem obvious to most people but it is still critical. The first two or three sentences of your motivational letter are crucial to the reader. Remember that the person reading your inspirational statement has most likely read thousands of others before it. Keeping the reader’s attention early on will thus benefit you.

Assume your college motivation letter isn’t exciting and doesn’t hook the reader from the first sentence. The reader is likely to close the letter and decline your application at that point.

You want the first paragraph of your motivation essay to keep them guessing and interested in reading until the end. You can include a mysterious story about your motivations and leave the culmination until the end.

3. Get Personal in your Motivational Essay

Make your motivation letter specific to the employer or university to which you are applying. Your letter should reflect your distinct style and personality. Your employers or university are interested in getting to know you better and no one knows you better than yourself. So, don’t just look up some motivational essay examples and use them as your own. The inspiration article should include the things that make you tick, your passions, and more!

Many students prefer to entrust the writing of motivational letters to a professional writing service. However, I can assure you that this is a bad option because you should write the motivation essay yourself.

4. Adopt a Straightforward and Succinct Tone

The objective of a letter of motivation, as the name implies, is to demonstrate your motivation for attending college to the school board or the reasons why you deserve a job to an HR manager who will read it. Avoid using long phrases and, instead, get right to the point. Explain in simple terms what you’re looking for and what you have to offer. Concentrate on what is vital; the rest will be addressed later.

5. Clearly Explain your Motivation

Make it a point to convince the school board or recruiter that this is the right college or job for you. Hit the nail on the head as many times as possible. Demonstrate that this is, without a doubt, the best place for you. Make use of all of your persuasion skills.

If you’re a student who can’t seem to motivate yourself to write the letter, think of it more as your motivation for earning a degree paper. This way of thinking will make you come up with points that are straightforward for your motivational letter.

If you’re writing an inspirational paper to apply for a job position, make sure it includes all of the qualities listed in the job description. Explain how each of the qualities relates to you.

6. Share your Professional Goals

In your inspirational essay, don’t be afraid to put yourself in the future. Outline your career goals and how the university or job offer is a step in the right direction. Also, talk about what you’ve accomplished and what you’re proud of.

7. Find The Right Balance

Of course, you must present yourself in the best possible light and persuade the recruiter that you are the right person for the job but don’t be too smug. At the same time, don’t undervalue yourself or appear overly modest. Try to summarize your accomplishments but avoid bragging about them. Please keep it simple; don’t fill the entire page with your achievements; instead, choose the ones that are relevant to the university or job requirements.

8. Back up what you’re saying

Simply stating that you are organized or that you have a sense of responsibility is not enough. Avoid overused phrases and explain why you’re organized. In your inspirational letter, provide some examples. When writing your motivational paper, one approach is to write as if you were a narrator. Narrating allows you to see yourself through the eyes of another person, telling the story of your life and goals.

9. Ensure that your Essay is Grammatically Sound 

When it comes to writing motivational letters, grammar errors are a no-no. So, double-check and have someone else read your inspirational paper because they may spot grammatical errors that you’ve missed. Also, it would be best if you avoided abbreviations and technical jargon. Do not try to sound like you’re writing a school assignment; instead, use the most elegant yet straightforward language and tone to make your point.

Don’t make writing a motivational statement more difficult than it should be. Focus on the essential things and let the rest go. Keep in mind that the college or company is curious to learn more about you. So, stay relaxed and make use of the tips we have mentioned above and you will be on your way to a brilliant motivation letter.  For more information on college writing tips and essay writing services, check other articles on Essay Advisor .

  • A List of Useful Homework Help Websites for College Students
  • Six Obvious Mistakes Essay Writing Service Users Make
  • 6 Reasons You Shouldn’t Buy Pre Written Essays
  • Difference Between American And Australian Education Systems
  • How to Write a College Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide
  • The Difference Between ENL vs ESL Writers: Which One to Choose?

Related Posts

  • 5 Reasons for Why Essay Writing Services Are Legal
  • How to Check If an Essay Writing Service is Trustworthy or Not?
  • Is There a Chance to be Expelled From College If You Buy Essays Online
  • Useful Tips on How Not to Get Caught While Using Professional Writing Help
  • How to Write a Compare and Contrast Essay In 8 Steps
  • How Companies Providing Writing Essay Services Will Look in the Future?
  • Top 6 Benefits of Using Paper Writing Services

Related Posts

  • How It Works
  • Prices & Discounts

How to Motivate Yourself to Write a College Essay

Adela B.

Table of contents

Share this article

Achieve Academic Success with Expert Assistance!

Crafted from Scratch for You.

Ensuring Your Work’s Originality.

Transform Your Draft into Excellence.

Perfecting Your Paper’s Grammar, Style, and Format (APA, MLA, etc.).

Calculate the cost of your paper

Get ideas for your essay

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.

  • Knowledge Base

The Beginner's Guide to Writing an Essay | Steps & Examples

An academic essay is a focused piece of writing that develops an idea or argument using evidence, analysis, and interpretation.

There are many types of essays you might write as a student. The content and length of an essay depends on your level, subject of study, and course requirements. However, most essays at university level are argumentative — they aim to persuade the reader of a particular position or perspective on a topic.

The essay writing process consists of three main stages:

  • Preparation: Decide on your topic, do your research, and create an essay outline.
  • Writing : Set out your argument in the introduction, develop it with evidence in the main body, and wrap it up with a conclusion.
  • Revision:  Check your essay on the content, organization, grammar, spelling, and formatting of your essay.

Instantly correct all language mistakes in your text

Upload your document to correct all your mistakes in minutes

upload-your-document-ai-proofreader

Table of contents

Essay writing process, preparation for writing an essay, writing the introduction, writing the main body, writing the conclusion, essay checklist, lecture slides, frequently asked questions about writing an essay.

The writing process of preparation, writing, and revisions applies to every essay or paper, but the time and effort spent on each stage depends on the type of essay .

For example, if you’ve been assigned a five-paragraph expository essay for a high school class, you’ll probably spend the most time on the writing stage; for a college-level argumentative essay , on the other hand, you’ll need to spend more time researching your topic and developing an original argument before you start writing.

1. Preparation 2. Writing 3. Revision
, organized into Write the or use a for language errors

Here's why students love Scribbr's proofreading services

Discover proofreading & editing

Before you start writing, you should make sure you have a clear idea of what you want to say and how you’re going to say it. There are a few key steps you can follow to make sure you’re prepared:

  • Understand your assignment: What is the goal of this essay? What is the length and deadline of the assignment? Is there anything you need to clarify with your teacher or professor?
  • Define a topic: If you’re allowed to choose your own topic , try to pick something that you already know a bit about and that will hold your interest.
  • Do your research: Read  primary and secondary sources and take notes to help you work out your position and angle on the topic. You’ll use these as evidence for your points.
  • Come up with a thesis:  The thesis is the central point or argument that you want to make. A clear thesis is essential for a focused essay—you should keep referring back to it as you write.
  • Create an outline: Map out the rough structure of your essay in an outline . This makes it easier to start writing and keeps you on track as you go.

Once you’ve got a clear idea of what you want to discuss, in what order, and what evidence you’ll use, you’re ready to start writing.

The introduction sets the tone for your essay. It should grab the reader’s interest and inform them of what to expect. The introduction generally comprises 10–20% of the text.

1. Hook your reader

The first sentence of the introduction should pique your reader’s interest and curiosity. This sentence is sometimes called the hook. It might be an intriguing question, a surprising fact, or a bold statement emphasizing the relevance of the topic.

Let’s say we’re writing an essay about the development of Braille (the raised-dot reading and writing system used by visually impaired people). Our hook can make a strong statement about the topic:

The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability.

2. Provide background on your topic

Next, it’s important to give context that will help your reader understand your argument. This might involve providing background information, giving an overview of important academic work or debates on the topic, and explaining difficult terms. Don’t provide too much detail in the introduction—you can elaborate in the body of your essay.

3. Present the thesis statement

Next, you should formulate your thesis statement— the central argument you’re going to make. The thesis statement provides focus and signals your position on the topic. It is usually one or two sentences long. The thesis statement for our essay on Braille could look like this:

As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness.

4. Map the structure

In longer essays, you can end the introduction by briefly describing what will be covered in each part of the essay. This guides the reader through your structure and gives a preview of how your argument will develop.

The invention of Braille marked a major turning point in the history of disability. The writing system of raised dots used by blind and visually impaired people was developed by Louis Braille in nineteenth-century France. In a society that did not value disabled people in general, blindness was particularly stigmatized, and lack of access to reading and writing was a significant barrier to social participation. The idea of tactile reading was not entirely new, but existing methods based on sighted systems were difficult to learn and use. As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness. This essay begins by discussing the situation of blind people in nineteenth-century Europe. It then describes the invention of Braille and the gradual process of its acceptance within blind education. Subsequently, it explores the wide-ranging effects of this invention on blind people’s social and cultural lives.

Write your essay introduction

The body of your essay is where you make arguments supporting your thesis, provide evidence, and develop your ideas. Its purpose is to present, interpret, and analyze the information and sources you have gathered to support your argument.

Length of the body text

The length of the body depends on the type of essay. On average, the body comprises 60–80% of your essay. For a high school essay, this could be just three paragraphs, but for a graduate school essay of 6,000 words, the body could take up 8–10 pages.

Paragraph structure

To give your essay a clear structure , it is important to organize it into paragraphs . Each paragraph should be centered around one main point or idea.

That idea is introduced in a  topic sentence . The topic sentence should generally lead on from the previous paragraph and introduce the point to be made in this paragraph. Transition words can be used to create clear connections between sentences.

After the topic sentence, present evidence such as data, examples, or quotes from relevant sources. Be sure to interpret and explain the evidence, and show how it helps develop your overall argument.

Lack of access to reading and writing put blind people at a serious disadvantage in nineteenth-century society. Text was one of the primary methods through which people engaged with culture, communicated with others, and accessed information; without a well-developed reading system that did not rely on sight, blind people were excluded from social participation (Weygand, 2009). While disabled people in general suffered from discrimination, blindness was widely viewed as the worst disability, and it was commonly believed that blind people were incapable of pursuing a profession or improving themselves through culture (Weygand, 2009). This demonstrates the importance of reading and writing to social status at the time: without access to text, it was considered impossible to fully participate in society. Blind people were excluded from the sighted world, but also entirely dependent on sighted people for information and education.

See the full essay example

Receive feedback on language, structure, and formatting

Professional editors proofread and edit your paper by focusing on:

  • Academic style
  • Vague sentences
  • Style consistency

See an example

need motivation to write an essay

The conclusion is the final paragraph of an essay. It should generally take up no more than 10–15% of the text . A strong essay conclusion :

  • Returns to your thesis
  • Ties together your main points
  • Shows why your argument matters

A great conclusion should finish with a memorable or impactful sentence that leaves the reader with a strong final impression.

What not to include in a conclusion

To make your essay’s conclusion as strong as possible, there are a few things you should avoid. The most common mistakes are:

  • Including new arguments or evidence
  • Undermining your arguments (e.g. “This is just one approach of many”)
  • Using concluding phrases like “To sum up…” or “In conclusion…”

Braille paved the way for dramatic cultural changes in the way blind people were treated and the opportunities available to them. Louis Braille’s innovation was to reimagine existing reading systems from a blind perspective, and the success of this invention required sighted teachers to adapt to their students’ reality instead of the other way around. In this sense, Braille helped drive broader social changes in the status of blindness. New accessibility tools provide practical advantages to those who need them, but they can also change the perspectives and attitudes of those who do not.

Write your essay conclusion

Checklist: Essay

My essay follows the requirements of the assignment (topic and length ).

My introduction sparks the reader’s interest and provides any necessary background information on the topic.

My introduction contains a thesis statement that states the focus and position of the essay.

I use paragraphs to structure the essay.

I use topic sentences to introduce each paragraph.

Each paragraph has a single focus and a clear connection to the thesis statement.

I make clear transitions between paragraphs and ideas.

My conclusion doesn’t just repeat my points, but draws connections between arguments.

I don’t introduce new arguments or evidence in the conclusion.

I have given an in-text citation for every quote or piece of information I got from another source.

I have included a reference page at the end of my essay, listing full details of all my sources.

My citations and references are correctly formatted according to the required citation style .

My essay has an interesting and informative title.

I have followed all formatting guidelines (e.g. font, page numbers, line spacing).

Your essay meets all the most important requirements. Our editors can give it a final check to help you submit with confidence.

Open Google Slides Download PowerPoint

An essay is a focused piece of writing that explains, argues, describes, or narrates.

In high school, you may have to write many different types of essays to develop your writing skills.

Academic essays at college level are usually argumentative : you develop a clear thesis about your topic and make a case for your position using evidence, analysis and interpretation.

The structure of an essay is divided into an introduction that presents your topic and thesis statement , a body containing your in-depth analysis and arguments, and a conclusion wrapping up your ideas.

The structure of the body is flexible, but you should always spend some time thinking about how you can organize your essay to best serve your ideas.

Your essay introduction should include three main things, in this order:

  • An opening hook to catch the reader’s attention.
  • Relevant background information that the reader needs to know.
  • A thesis statement that presents your main point or argument.

The length of each part depends on the length and complexity of your essay .

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

  • It gives your writing direction and focus.
  • It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

A topic sentence is a sentence that expresses the main point of a paragraph . Everything else in the paragraph should relate to the topic sentence.

At college level, you must properly cite your sources in all essays , research papers , and other academic texts (except exams and in-class exercises).

Add a citation whenever you quote , paraphrase , or summarize information or ideas from a source. You should also give full source details in a bibliography or reference list at the end of your text.

The exact format of your citations depends on which citation style you are instructed to use. The most common styles are APA , MLA , and Chicago .

Is this article helpful?

Other students also liked.

  • How long is an essay? Guidelines for different types of essay
  • How to write an essay introduction | 4 steps & examples
  • How to conclude an essay | Interactive example

More interesting articles

  • Checklist for academic essays | Is your essay ready to submit?
  • Comparing and contrasting in an essay | Tips & examples
  • Example of a great essay | Explanations, tips & tricks
  • Generate topic ideas for an essay or paper | Tips & techniques
  • How to revise an essay in 3 simple steps
  • How to structure an essay: Templates and tips
  • How to write a descriptive essay | Example & tips
  • How to write a literary analysis essay | A step-by-step guide
  • How to write a narrative essay | Example & tips
  • How to write a rhetorical analysis | Key concepts & examples
  • How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples
  • How to write an argumentative essay | Examples & tips
  • How to write an essay outline | Guidelines & examples
  • How to write an expository essay
  • How to write the body of an essay | Drafting & redrafting
  • Kinds of argumentative academic essays and their purposes
  • Organizational tips for academic essays
  • The four main types of essay | Quick guide with examples
  • Transition sentences | Tips & examples for clear writing

What is your plagiarism score?

The Fall 2025 Graduate Program Application is open! Apply by the early action deadline on October 3, 2024.

Tips for Writing Your Motivational Statement and Essays

While it’s one of our favorite parts of the application reading experience, we know that writing essay components can be anxiety-inducing for applicants. As you start or continue your application , we hope you find this guidance on the motivational statement and essays helpful.

Motivational Statement

All students applying to the Master of Public Policy (MPP) , MA in Public Policy (MA) , MS in Computational Analysis and Public Policy (MSCAPP) , and MA in Public Policy with Certificate in Research Methods (MACRM) programs are required to submit a 300-word motivational statement answering the questions: Why policy? Why Harris? (Or a version of these questions more specific to your program).

Some suggestions as you are thinking about your answers to these questions:

Answer the prompt. Don’t worry about using precious space to introduce yourself—jump right into answering the question. 

Write first, edit later. Get your ideas onto the page—whether that means bullet points, idea webs, or a journal entry. Don’t worry about crafting the perfect opener, meeting the word count, or checking grammar when you are first getting started.  

Reflect. Think about the professional, personal, or academic experience that has inspired you. 

Be specific. When answering Why Harris? , be specific to the University of Chicago and Harris. Analyze why certain programs, centers, classes, or professors made you want to apply here. 

Optional Essay Questions

Although the Motivation Statement is required, the essay questions are optional. For all optional essay questions, we aren’t just interested in the “right answer,” but how you are thinking about and approaching these complex questions.

Students applying to the Master of Public Policy (MPP) program may pick any of the three questions below. Completing question three will allow you to be considered for Pearson fellowships open only to MPP students.

Students applying to the MA in Public Policy (MA) , MS in Computational Analysis and Public Policy (MSCAPP) , and MA in Public Policy with Certificate in Research Methods (MACRM) programs may choose to complete optional essays 1 and

Option 1: Challenge—Describe briefly the biggest challenge you have ever faced. How did you tackle it and what did you learn? (max 300 words)

Tip: In essay one, you may write about a personal, professional, or academic challenge when answering this question. Perhaps more than the challenge itself, we are interested in how you tackled the challenge, and what you learned in the process.

Option 2: Community—Where do you see yourself getting involved in the community during your time at Harris—either at the University of Chicago or in the city of Chicago? (max 300 words)

Tip: If you are answering essay two, please make sure to speak specifically to Harris or UChicago.

Option 3: Pearson—If you would like to be considered for  The Pearson Fellowship , please answer the following: In reflecting on the complexities of past and present protracted global conflicts, please analyze what singular global conflict most puzzles you personally, and discuss why.

Tip: Please note that “global conflict” can refer to a range of conflicts (i.e. inter/intra state; those involving non-state actors, etc.) and a range of issues associated (i.e. refugee crises, religious conflict, gang violence, drug wars, domestic violence, etc.). Remember to consider: Is the conflict actually puzzling? For example, does it involve actors acting against their own best interest, or operating irrationally?​ And finally, for the purposes of this essay, you will not need to cite sources.

We hope you find these tips helpful as you move your application forward.

Upcoming Events

Get to know harris a virtual information session, coffee chat in madison, wi.

Valencia Coffee 799 University Ave Madison , WI 53715 United States

Get to Know Harris! Public Sector Scholarship

  • How to Apply
  • Why Public Policy
  • Financial Aid
  • Academic Advising
  • Disability Resources
  • Room Reservations
  • Academic Calendar
  • Faculty Resources
  • Faculty Access
  • Human Resources
  • News and Events
  • Alumni Directory
  • Get Involved

CollegeBasics

6 Unique Tips for Writing a Brilliant Motivational Essay

5 unique tips to writing a brilliant motivational essay

Fortunately, in the contemporary world we live in, we can pursue have numerous education paths.

However, choosing college and career path is only half the battle.

The hard part is gaining admissions into the school of your dreams. Make no mistake: this is not an easy task. Most schools require not only outstanding grades, but also a thorough motivational essay explaining your motives for pursuing your chosen major at their institution.

This is the opportunity to stand out and show your character and ability to turn your education into a successful venture.

In the following article, we will give you some writing tips and practical advice on how to write a superb essay for college admissions and earn that acceptance letter.

1. Do your research

One of the most common mistakes people make when writing a motivational essay is creating a template piece for every college they apply to. This is a huge no-no, and here’s why: each academic establishment has its own agenda and preferences.

Some appreciate social initiatives and volunteering experience, some look for passion and determination to succeed, while others pay more attention to grades and test scores.

Try to research your chosen school as much as possible and write a unique essay accordingly. Sometimes colleges provide specific questions they want to see answered in your essay, so be sure to read the instructions carefully. Edit your work so the readers will feel the school’s spirit in your essay. It’s a good start to help your application stand out from the crowd.

2. Be personal

This part may surprise you: you don’t need to be an excellent writer. Sites like EduBirdie might save you some time, but they skip over the real reasons colleges want a motivational letter. Colleges want to get to know you — the person behind the application forms, documents, and numbers.

They want to see what your aspirations are, what you like to do, why you decided to pursue this particular path, and what you consider your strengths to be.

A generic, standard letter with no personality simply won’t. Don’t just repeat your application verbatim — embrace your life and interests and show off the real you! Try to present yourself in an informal way; don’t worry about formalities.

Let the university staff get to see your unique character and way of thinking; perhaps you can include a relevant joke or an anecdote from your life that is connected with your choice of profession, etc.

A strong personal approach goes a very long way here — trust us.

3. Drafts are important

First impressions matters. In the case of college applications, your first impression is in your motivational essay . Of course, you want to give a good first impression. Proper grammar, sentence structure, and punctuation are the key. This is why editing and revising your text is crucial.

Play around with word choice, ensure the paragraphs are clear and concise, and pay close attention to sentence structure. You can even use an Online Word Counter Tool to help you size up your draft properly.

Online programs like Grammarly are great for checking spelling and other possible issues in your writing. If the admission committee reads an essay with a clear sense of purpose, excellent grammar, and determination, they will see the applicant as a good fit because they understand the applicant’s goals and abilities. Don’t underestimate the power of proper styling and grammar.

4. Survey your essay

This may seem like an odd tip, but it can help with your essay quite a lot. If you’re unsure about the motivational essay you’ve written, or maybe you’re looking for ways to make it more memorable, try creating an online survey. You can put it out to the masses on social media, or even ask a few close friends to take a read and give you their thoughts.

Ask their opinion on your writing: what points are the strongest, what areas did you struggle, and how could you improve. This will provide you with real feedback to identify any issues you may have overlooked.

5. Get to the point

It may seem alluring to include every seemingly-relevant detail in your motivational essay. However, this can make the whole piece come across as vague and all over the place. Pick a couple of routes to follow, assess your best qualities, and decide what areas of your life and background you wish to include.

Don’t try to cram in every idea that crosses your mind; this will only clutter your essay! One good suggestion is to ask your friends and family to list your best characteristics, skills, and talents, then pick a few of most common to include in your essay.

6.Professional goals matter

While showing personality in your essay is essential, don’t forget to talk about your professional goals. Clearly state your motivation for choosing this career path and why you’re most suited for it. Explain why you are the best candidate for the program. Don’t overdo it by showing off or praising yourself too much.

Instead, talk about what personality traits will help you success, and where you plan on going with the degree you earn.

Remember, balance is the key to a good motivational essay; putting less information than needed is just as bad as putting too much. Getting too personal and informal will harm your application,but so will being too bland and official.

The secret is to maintain balance, and include only the points that matter. The most important advice is be yourself and be inspired.

For more great college tips, check out the other blogs on College Basics.

You may also like

helpful-college-hints-tips

Seven Ways to Make your College Essay Stand Out

Australian and American flag blended together

8 Differences Between Aussie and American Schools

need motivation to write an essay

Example of a College Essay that Needs Revision

need motivation to write an essay

Top 5 Most Difficult IB (International Baccalaureate) Subjects

hand of accounting student touching tablet

8 Reasons Why You Should Study Accounting Degrees

need motivation to write an essay

8 Best Essay Writing Services According to Reddit and Quora

About the author.

need motivation to write an essay

CB Community

Passionate members of the College Basics community that include students, essay writers, consultants and beyond. Please note, while community content has passed our editorial guidelines, we do not endorse any product or service contained in these articles which may also include links for which College Basics is compensated.

Pitchgrade

Presentations made painless

  • Get Premium

113 Motivation Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Motivation is the driving force behind our actions, thoughts, and behaviors. It is what pushes us to achieve our goals, overcome obstacles, and persevere through challenges. Writing an essay on motivation can be a great way to explore the topic and gain a deeper understanding of what motivates us as individuals.

To help you get started, here are 113 motivation essay topic ideas and examples that you can use as inspiration for your own writing:

  • The importance of setting goals and staying motivated
  • How to find motivation in times of adversity
  • The role of motivation in achieving success
  • The impact of motivation on mental health and well-being
  • Motivation and its connection to self-esteem and confidence
  • The difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation
  • How to stay motivated when facing setbacks and failures
  • The relationship between motivation and procrastination
  • The role of motivation in education and learning
  • Motivation and its influence on job satisfaction and performance
  • The power of positive thinking and motivation
  • The impact of motivation on physical health and fitness
  • How to cultivate motivation in yourself and others
  • The role of motivation in leadership and management
  • Motivation and its effect on creativity and innovation
  • The connection between motivation and goal-setting
  • Motivation and its influence on decision-making
  • The relationship between motivation and self-discipline
  • Motivation and its impact on relationships and communication
  • The role of motivation in overcoming fears and insecurities
  • How to maintain motivation over the long term
  • The impact of motivation on personal growth and development
  • Motivation and its connection to happiness and fulfillment
  • The role of motivation in achieving work-life balance
  • Motivation and its effect on mental toughness and resilience
  • How to use motivation to overcome challenges and obstacles
  • The relationship between motivation and perseverance
  • Motivation and its influence on creativity and problem-solving
  • The role of motivation in building resilience and coping with stress
  • Motivation and its impact on decision-making and risk-taking
  • How to motivate others to achieve their goals
  • The connection between motivation and self-awareness
  • Motivation and its influence on emotional intelligence
  • The role of motivation in building a growth mindset
  • Motivation and its impact on self-care and self-love
  • How to use motivation to overcome self-doubt and insecurity
  • The relationship between motivation and passion
  • Motivation and its connection to purpose and meaning
  • The role of motivation in building confidence and self-esteem
  • Motivation and its influence on resilience and adaptability
  • How to cultivate motivation through mindfulness and meditation
  • The impact of motivation on creativity and innovation
  • Motivation and its connection to curiosity and exploration
  • The role of motivation in building relationships and community
  • Motivation and its influence on leadership and teamwork
  • How to use motivation to overcome fear of failure
  • The relationship between motivation and self-compassion
  • Motivation and its impact on mental health and well-being
  • Motivation and its influence on personal growth and development
  • How to maintain motivation during challenging times
  • The connection between motivation and resilience
  • Motivation and its connection to goal-setting and achievement
  • The role of motivation in building self-discipline and willpower
  • Motivation and its impact on decision-making and problem-solving
  • How to use motivation to overcome procrastination
  • The relationship between motivation and creativity
  • Motivation and its influence on emotional intelligence and self-awareness
  • Motivation and its connection to passion and purpose
  • How to cultivate motivation through positive thinking and affirmations
  • The impact of motivation on personal and professional success
  • The role of motivation in building healthy habits and routines
  • Motivation and its connection to self-care and self-love
  • How to maintain motivation during times of uncertainty
  • The connection between motivation and perseverance
  • Motivation and its connection to self-awareness and mindfulness
  • Motivation and its influence on decision-making and risk-taking
  • How to use motivation to overcome fears and insecurities
  • Motivation and its impact on personal and professional success
  • How to cultivate motivation through gratitude and appreciation
  • Motivation and its influence on decision-making and problem-solving

In conclusion, motivation is a powerful force that drives us to achieve our goals and overcome obstacles. By exploring the topic of motivation through essays, we can gain a deeper understanding of what motivates us as individuals and how we can cultivate motivation in ourselves and others. Whether you choose to write about the importance of setting goals, the role of motivation in achieving success, or the impact of motivation on mental health and well-being, there are endless possibilities for exploring this fascinating topic in your writing. So go ahead and choose a topic from the list above, or come up with your own idea, and start writing your motivation essay today!

Want to research companies faster?

Instantly access industry insights

Let PitchGrade do this for me

Leverage powerful AI research capabilities

We will create your text and designs for you. Sit back and relax while we do the work.

Explore More Content

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service

© 2024 Pitchgrade

Home — Essay Samples — Psychology — Personality Psychology — Motivation

one px

Essays on Motivation

🌟 the importance of writing a motivation essay 📝.

Motivation is like that extra sprinkle of magic dust that gives us the boost we need to achieve our goals and dreams ✹✹. It's the driving force behind our actions and the fuel that keeps us going when things get tough. Writing an essay about motivation allows us to delve deeper into this fascinating topic and explore its various aspects. So, why not grab your pen (or keyboard) and let's dive into the world of motivation! đŸ’Ș📚

🔍 Choosing the Perfect Motivation Essay Topic đŸ€”

When it comes to choosing a topic for your motivation essay, there are a few things to consider. First, think about what aspect of motivation you find most intriguing. Is it personal motivation, motivation in the workplace, or maybe the psychology behind motivation? Once you have a general idea, narrow it down further to a specific angle that interests you the most.

💡 Motivation Argumentative Essay đŸ’Ș📝

An argumentative essay on motivation requires you to take a stance and provide evidence to support your viewpoint. Here are ten exciting topics to get those creative juices flowing:

  • The role of intrinsic motivation in academic success
  • The impact of extrinsic rewards on employee motivation
  • Does social media affect motivation levels in teenagers?
  • The connection between motivation and self-esteem
  • How does motivation differ between genders?
  • The influence of music on motivation levels
  • Does money truly motivate people in the workplace?
  • The effects of positive reinforcement on motivation
  • The link between motivation and mental health
  • How does goal-setting impact motivation?

đŸŒȘ Motivation Cause and Effect Essay 📝

In a cause and effect essay, you explore the reasons behind certain motivations and their outcomes. Here are ten thought-provoking topics to consider:

  • The causes and effects of procrastination on motivation
  • How does a lack of motivation impact academic performance?
  • The relationship between motivation and success in sports
  • The effects of parental motivation on children's achievements
  • How does motivation affect mental well-being?
  • The causes and effects of burnout on motivation levels
  • The impact of motivation on work-life balance
  • How does motivation affect creativity and innovation?
  • The causes and effects of peer pressure on motivation
  • The relationship between motivation and goal attainment

💬 Motivation Opinion Essay 💭📝

In an opinion essay, you express your personal thoughts and beliefs about motivation. Here are ten intriguing topics to spark your imagination:

  • Is self-motivation more effective than external motivation?
  • Are rewards a necessary form of motivation?
  • Should schools focus more on intrinsic motivation?
  • The role of motivation in achieving work-life balance
  • Is motivation a learned behavior or innate?
  • The impact of motivation on personal growth and development
  • Does motivation play a significant role in overcoming obstacles?
  • Is fear an effective motivator?
  • The role of motivation in maintaining a healthy lifestyle
  • Can motivation be sustained in the long term?

📚 Motivation Informative Essay 🧠📝

An informative essay on motivation aims to educate and provide valuable insights. Here are ten fascinating topics to explore:

  • The psychology behind motivation and its theories
  • How to stay motivated in challenging times
  • The impact of motivation on personal and professional success
  • Motivation techniques for achieving fitness goals
  • The role of motivation in leadership and management
  • Motivation in the context of mental health and well-being
  • The history of motivation research and key figures
  • Motivation strategies for students and educators
  • Motivation and its connection to creativity and innovation
  • Motivation in different cultural and societal contexts

📜 Thesis Statement Examples 📜

Here are a few thesis statement examples to inspire your motivation essay:

  • 1. "Motivation, whether intrinsic or extrinsic, plays a pivotal role in driving individuals towards achieving their goals and aspirations."
  • 2. "This essay explores the multifaceted nature of motivation, examining its psychological underpinnings, societal influences, and practical applications."
  • 3. "In a world filled with challenges and opportunities, understanding the mechanisms of motivation empowers individuals to overcome obstacles and reach new heights of success."

📝 Introduction Paragraph Examples 📝

Here are some introduction paragraph examples for your motivation essay:

  • 1. "Motivation is the driving force behind human actions, the invisible hand that propels us toward our goals. It is the spark that ignites the fire of determination within us, pushing us to overcome obstacles and realize our dreams."
  • 2. "In a world where challenges often outnumber opportunities, motivation serves as the compass guiding us through life's intricate maze. It is the unwavering belief in our abilities and the fuel that keeps our ambitions burning bright."
  • 3. "Picture a world without motivation—a world where dreams remain unfulfilled, talents remain hidden, and aspirations remain dormant. Fortunately, we do not live in such a world, and this essay delves into the profound impact of motivation on human lives."

🔚 Conclusion Paragraph Examples 📝

Here are some conclusion paragraph examples for your motivation essay:

  • 1. "As we conclude this journey through the realm of motivation, let us remember that it is the driving force behind our accomplishments, the cornerstone of our achievements. With unwavering motivation, we can surmount any obstacle and turn our aspirations into reality."
  • 2. "In the grand tapestry of human existence, motivation weaves the threads of determination, perseverance, and success. This essay's culmination serves as a testament to the enduring power of motivation and its ability to shape our destinies."
  • 3. "As we bid farewell to this exploration of motivation, let us carry forward the knowledge that motivation is not just a concept but a potent force that propels us toward greatness. With motivation as our guide, we can continue to chase our dreams and conquer new horizons."

📄 Motivation Research Paper Outline 📄

I. introduction 🌟.

  • Definition of Motivation
  • Importance of Studying Motivation
  • Research Questions or Hypotheses
  • Objectives of the Study
  • Significance of the Study
  • Scope and Limitations

II. Literature Review 📖

  • Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
  • Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory
  • Self-Determination Theory
  • Research on Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation
  • Studies on Workplace Motivation
  • Impact of Motivation on Performance and Productivity
  • Gaps in the Literature

III. Research Methodology 🔬

  • Qualitative, Quantitative, or Mixed Methods
  • Sampling Techniques
  • Sample Size
  • Surveys, Interviews, Observations, etc.
  • Data Analysis Techniques
  • Ethical Considerations

IV. Results and Discussion 💬

  • Tables, Graphs, and Charts
  • Interpretation of Data
  • Comparison with Previous Studies
  • Theoretical Implications
  • Practical Implications

V. Conclusion 🏁

  • Summary of Findings
  • Conclusions Drawn from the Study
  • Recommendations for Future Research
  • Limitations of the Study

VI. References 📚

  • Citations of all Sources Used

VII. Appendices 📑

  • Additional Material (e.g., Survey Instruments, Interview Guides)

John Proctor’s Motivation in Arthur Miller’s The Crucible

Finding of what motivates you: nick vujicic, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences

+ experts online

Motivation Letter (bachelor of Business Administration)

The main types of motivation, motivation and its various types, pushing beyond limits: finding motivation to succeed, let us write you an essay from scratch.

  • 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
  • Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

My Motivation to Study Medical/health Administration

Life as a student-athlete, learning styles and motivation reflection , my motivation to undergo a masters program in business, entrepreneurship, and technology, get a personalized essay in under 3 hours.

Expert-written essays crafted with your exact needs in mind

My Letter of Motivation: Electrical and Electronics Engineering

Assessment of my motivation and values, overview of the motivational theories for business, autonomy, mastery, and purpose: motivation, applying work motivation theories to business situations, drive-reduction theory and motivation, the impact of motivation and affect on judgement, my motivation to study biomedical engineering in the netherlands, research of the theories of motivation: expectancy theory and the equity theory, understanding of my personal motivation, the motivation letter for you, herzberg two-factor theory of motivation, motivation in different aspects of our lives, the importance of motivation in human resource management, my motivation to get a bachelor degree in nursing, my potential and motivation to excel in the field of medicine, my motivational letter: mechanical engineering, motivation letter for computer science scholarship, effective management and motivation of employees, your motivation to do sports.

Motivation is the drive or desire to achieve a goal or take action. Motivational states are commonly understood as forces acting within the agent that create a disposition to engage in goal-directed behavior.

Intrinsic, extrinsic, unconscious, and conscious.

Theories articulating the content of motivation: Maslow's hierarchy of needs, Herzberg's two-factor theory, Alderfer's ERG theory, Self-Determination Theory, Drive theory.

  • Motivation can come from both internal (intrinsic) and external (extrinsic) sources.
  • Different people are motivated by different things, such as rewards, recognition, or personal satisfaction.
  • Setting specific, achievable goals can increase motivation levels.
  • Motivation can fluctuate based on external factors like stress, fatigue, or distractions.
  • Motivation is closely linked to productivity and success in various aspects of life.

The topic of motivation is important because it plays a crucial role in determining individual behavior, performance, and overall well-being. Understanding what motivates people can help in creating effective strategies for personal growth, goal achievement, and boosting overall satisfaction and success. It is a key aspect of psychology, education, management, and various other fields that aim to enhance human performance and well-being.

Relevant topics

  • Growth Mindset
  • Procrastination

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Bibliography

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

  • Instructions Followed To The Letter
  • Deadlines Met At Every Stage
  • Unique And Plagiarism Free

need motivation to write an essay

Become a Writer Today

Essays About Motivation Leads to Success: Top 5 Examples

If you’re writing an essays about motivation leads to success; you will be inspired by our guide’s essay examples and prompts. 

Motivation is the ultimate key to success. The journey toward any goal is always fraught with hardships that tempt you to quit. But with the right motivation, you can keep sight of your goals and make it to your finish line. The search to find the source of people’s motivation and how to sustain its momentum has been a favorite subject among psychologists and management experts. This interest has engendered several motivation theories applied across society, whether at home, school, or work.

Read on for great essays and prompts on motivation leading to success, and find yourself filled with the motivation to get your essay done.

IMAGE PRODUCT  
Grammarly
ProWritingAid

5 Top Essay Examples

1. the power of positive self-talk by teri karjala, 2. the goldilocks rule: how to stay motivated in life and business by james clear, 3. caffeine, exercise and the brain: how ‘doping’ with psychoactive drugs can boost motivation by ian mcmahan, 4. how to motivate your problem people by nigel nicholson, 5. how to overcome self-doubt and a lack of motivation by leo babauta, 9 helpful writing prompts on essays about motivation leads to success, 1. what motivates you, 2. rewards as tools for motivation, 3. how to develop self-motivation, 4. maslow’s hierarchy of needs, 5. motivating children to succeed, 6. using motivation to succeed in fitness, 7. creating a motivationing atmosphere at home, 8. rejection as a powerful driver for motivation, 9. motivating team members.

“Powerful and positive self-talk can change your entire mindset, which can affect your actions. That, in turn, can have a massive impact on how successful you are on any journey you take or any obstacle you face.”

Practicing positive self-talk can help turn self-doubt into concrete positive actions toward your goals. There are several ways to establish a habit of positive self-talk that will fuel our motivation. Such habits include steps as simple as changing how we address ourselves and physical activities, such as exercising and volunteering for social activities. 

“It is hard to imagine a situation that would strike fear into the hearts of more people than performing alone on stage and failing to get a single laugh. And yet Steve Martin faced this fear every week for eighteen years.”

The essay chronicles the success of American comedian Steve Martin, offering an excellent example of someone who has applied the so-called Goldilock’s Rule. Goldilock’s Rule states that people’s motivation is at its peak when they face manageable challenges. Psychologists also add that immediately receiving positive feedback will also motivate people to work their way to success with more determination than ever.

“When motivation is low and perceived effort high, the couch wins. So if a cup of tea or coffee can get you out and exercising, Marcora’s research suggests it’s worth a try.”

This article describes how your fitness and body toning goals would have been easier by keeping motivated. It also describes the quick fix that could eradicate psychological barriers to exercise: the mildly stimulating “drug” called caffeine.

Looking for more? Check out these essays about personal growth .

“Everyone knows that good managers motivate with the power of their vision, the passion of their delivery, and the compelling logic of their reasoning. Add in the proper incentives, and people will enthusiastically march off in the right direction.”

By coaxing problem employees to do better, managers are not only demotivating them further but are stoking the fire in an already dysfunctional relationship. This is the last thing managers would like to do if they still want to unlock employees’ intrinsic motivation and channel it toward the company’s goals. Before seeing problem employees as the main cause of the problem, managers must look inward and be more flexible in setting goals.

“It can be hard to get moving when you are stuck. This is how I felt in 2005 when I couldn’t change any of my habits. It was really hard to motivate myself when I didn’t think I would succeed, when I felt horrible about myself. But I took one small step, and it felt good.”

We all have that day when a lack of motivation strikes us. This article reassures us that experiencing sluggishness and self-doubt is okay. But instead of wallowing in self-pity, we can still make that bad day count by taking a small step and changing our perception of ourselves and the world around us.

What motivates you to wake up early to get to school, do your homework, or study intently for an exam? In this essay, write about the factors that figure in your motivation equation. Next, enumerate your techniques or attempts to build motivation for your goals. How do you deal with a low motivation level on a bad day? Do you take some rest or force your effort? Finally, share with your readers how much you have progressed in building motivation and what more you want to achieve.

Several studies have uncovered the enormous benefits of rewards in motivating people. First, delve into these studies and discover the scientific explanation behind the effects of rewards on people’s motivation and success. Then, write about the kinds of rewards that have proven effective. Finally, write about rewards you have received that fuelled you to improve yourself and your outlook to add a personal touch.

Self-motivation is a strong sense of motivation that comes from within a person rather than from external factors. This essay focuses on activities and habits that can empower your readers to be self-motivated. For example, it is proven that a deep and daily reflection of goals keeps one focused on following a routine built for that goal, regardless of the difficulties.

Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory is the most popular motivation theory. So, elaborate Maslow’s theory, which proposes that a person has to fulfill five basic needs to keep motivated — physiological, safety, social, esteem, and self-actualization. Also discuss the motivation theories derived from Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, such as Alderfer’s ERG Theory, Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory, and McLelland’s Acquired Needs Theory, among others. Explore how they relate with each other or even pick out which improvised theory best captures and works with your situation at school or work.

Essays About Motivation Leads to Success: Motivating children to succeed

Adults at home and school have a big role in instilling in children the importance of motivation as the key to success. For this essay, share the motivational methods your parents and teachers employ to help you keep motivated. Then, assess how these methods effectively or ineffectively build your inner sense of motivation. 

Many of us might have added fitness goals into our New Year’s resolution. And most might have deferred it or abandoned it altogether. Provide your readers with tips on how they can conquer laziness and hit the gym. Of course, the most challenging part is staying motivated in this routine. So compile tried and tested techniques from wellness and fitness experts, and encourage your readers to chronicle their fitness journey so they can appreciate their progress over time. 

This may be a challenge for parents who are working from home. Once parents feel the weight of the responsibilities at home, their motivation for work tends to slip away. So, provide recommendations on how working parents can set healthy boundaries between housework and professional work to deliver on their priority tasks. 

Now, if you want your essay to cater to students, you could also write your experience in distance learning – if any – during the pandemic. Talk about your challenges, strategies for overcoming them, and recommendations to enhance students’ motivation in distance learning. 

Several success stories are made possible because of rejection. For your essay, learn how popular figures embraced rejection. How did they harness it to generate the energy they need to reach their dreams? Finally, offer your readers, particularly those who may be experiencing rejection, some encouraging words to help them get through such trying times. 

How do you deal with uncooperative team members? Unfortunately, some team leaders just allow such instances to pass. But for leaders determined to uplift their team members’ motivation, what can they do? For your essay, offer proven practical approaches to help members align with team goals. Use case studies from the experiences of long-time leaders and managers.

For more writing tips, learn about persuasive writing . Also, check out our round-up of the best essay checkers to ensure your piece is error-free.

Motivation Essay for Students and Children

500+ words essay on motivation.

Everyone suggests other than the person lack motivation, or directly suggests the person remain motivated. But, no one ever tells what is the motivation of how one can stay motivated. Motivation means to face the obstacle and find an inspiration that helps you to go through tough times. In addition, it helps you to move further in life.

Motivation Essay

Meaning of Motivation

Motivation is something that cannot be understood with words but with practice. It means to be moved by something so strongly that it becomes an inspiration for you. Furthermore, it is a discipline that helps you to achieve your life goals and also helps to be successful in life .

Besides, it the most common practice that everyone does whether it is your boss in office or a school teacher or a university professor everyone motivates others in a way or other.

Role of Motivation

It is a strong tool that helps to get ahead in life. For being motivated we need a driving tool or goal that keeps us motivated and moves forward. Also, it helps in being progressive both physically and mentally.

Moreover, your goal does not be to big and long term they can be small and empowering. Furthermore, you need the right mindset to be motivated.

Besides, you need to push your self towards your goal no one other than you can push your limit. Also, you should be willing to leave your comfort zone because your true potential is going to revel when you leave your comfort zone.

Types of Motivation

Although there are various types of motivation according to me there are generally two types of motivation that are self- motivation and motivation by others.

Self-motivation- It refers to the power of someone to stay motivated without the influence of other situations and people. Furthermore, self-motivated people always find a way to reason and strength to complete a task. Also, they do not need other people to encourage them to perform a challenging task.

Motivation by others- This motivation requires help from others as the person is not able to maintain a self-motivated state. In this, a person requires encouragement from others. Also, he needs to listen to motivational speeches, a strong goal and most importantly and inspiration.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Importance of Motivation

Motivation is very important for the overall development of the personality and mind of the people. It also puts a person in action and in a competitive state. Furthermore, it improves efficiency and desire to achieve the goal. It leads to stability and improvement in work.

Above all, it satisfies a person’s needs and to achieve his/her goal. It helps the person to fight his negative attitude. The person also tries to come out of his/her comfort zone so that she/ he can achieve the goal.

To conclude, motivation is one of the key elements that help a person to be successful. A motivated person tries to push his limits and always tries to improve his performance day by day. Also, the person always gives her/his best no matter what the task is. Besides, the person always tries to remain progressive and dedicated to her/his goals.

FAQs about Motivation Essay

Q.1 Define what is motivation fit. A.1 This refers to a psychological phenomenon in which a person assumes or expects something from the job or life but gets different results other than his expectations. In a profession, it is a primary criterion for determining if the person will stay or leave the job.

Q.2 List some best motivators. A.2 some of the best motivators are:

  • Inspiration
  • Fear of failure
  • Power of Rejection
  • Don’t pity your self
  • Be assertive
  • Stay among positive and motivated people
  • Be calm and visionary

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Which class are you in.

tutor

  • Travelling Essay
  • Picnic Essay
  • Our Country Essay
  • My Parents Essay
  • Essay on Favourite Personality
  • Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
  • Essay on Knowledge is Power
  • Essay on Gurpurab
  • Essay on My Favourite Season
  • Essay on Types of Sports

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Download the App

Google Play

IMAGES

  1. How To Motivate Yourself To Write An Essay

    need motivation to write an essay

  2. Motivation Essay Sample Free Essay Example

    need motivation to write an essay

  3. Motivation Essay example

    need motivation to write an essay

  4. How To Get Motivated to Write An Essay: 5+ Useful Tips for You

    need motivation to write an essay

  5. Motivation Essay

    need motivation to write an essay

  6. My Motivation for Studying Free Essay Example

    need motivation to write an essay

VIDEO

  1. How Would you want to be treated? #lifelessons #motivation #motivationalspeech #wisdom #mindset

  2. WRITE YOUR OWN NARRATIVE: Powerful Motivation

  3. WRITE YOUR OWN LEGACY

  4. Why You Have No Motivation to Write (And How to Fix It)

  5. HOW TO WRITE A MOTIVATION LETTER/ STATEMENT OF PURPOSE. READING OUT 7 MOTI. LETTERS

  6. How to Write a Paper or Essay

COMMENTS

  1. 9 Ways to Boost Your Writing Motivation (That Actually Work)

    9 Proven Ways to Motivate Yourself to Write. 1. Don't Confuse Motivation with Passion. Forget everything you've ever learned about writing "out of passion.". If you wait to feel passionate about what you're writing, you'll never finish writing your book. You can't rely on passion. It comes and goes too easily.

  2. 15 Ways to Motivate Yourself to Write

    If it helps, pretend this is for a client. 3. Write now, edit later. An essential part of creative writing is to just get your story down. When the words are flowing, don't stop to edit. You'll forget your thoughts and ideas and you'll lose momentum. Get the story down first. You can go back and edit later. 4.

  3. 6 Strategies to Boost Your Writing Motivation: Fueling Impressive

    Finding the motivation to write an essay can be a challenge, but with the right mindset and strategies, it can become an enjoyable and rewarding process. Remember, every essay you write is a stepping stone to becoming a better writer and critical thinker. ... It helps me to get the motivation I need to start writing again. Renata Feyen February ...

  4. Need Writing Motivation? 33 Ideas to Get Your Groove Back

    Eventually, your brain will automatically associate the taste and aroma of the drink with the activity of writing, resulting in automatic motivation. So there you have it. 33 quick doses of writing motivation! Next time you feel stuck, give one of them a try. It might just be the jolt you need to get back on track.

  5. How to Get Motivated to Write an Essay: 9 Easy Steps

    2. Outline the Essay including the Introduction and Conclusion. In this step, you're going to set up the essay to make it as easy as possible to think about. This is one of my biggest tips when it comes to sticking to a plan. This helps get you motivated to write the essay because it makes it seem less daunting.

  6. Motivation to Write: 7 Fundamental Needs of Writers And How to Leverage

    When you hit a slump in your writing and need motivation to write, go back to your message. Pretend you are sharing it with someone for the first time. Relish in it. Let your passion for it fuel your work. 4. The Need to Fulfill a Calling. When I was in seminary, I heard a lot of people talk about "calling.".

  7. How To Start a College Essay: 9 Effective Techniques

    How to start a college essayTABLE OF CONTENTS. (click to scroll) How You Probably Shouldn't Start Your College Essay. 9 Ways to Start a College Essay. The Full Hemingway. The Mini Hemingway. The Twist. The Philosophical Question. The Confession.

  8. Need Some Essay Writing Motivation? Read Our Top Tips

    Fortunately, we have got those all-important motivational tips to get you through this tough time and fill up that blank document with the 2,000 words due next week. 1. Cut Out All Distractions. We all do it. Take a quick look at Facebook, catch up on a group chat or watch a quick video and suddenly it's been 20 minutes.

  9. 6 Writing Motivation Tips That Work (Even if You're Busy)

    Here are six very simple tips and mindset tweaks that have not only helped me regain writing motivation in my toughest moments, but also allowed me to create my best work ever. 1. Find Your Why, Then Stick With a How. For the first few months after I started my blog, I felt lost and unmotivated.

  10. How To Get Motivated to Write An Essay: 5+ Useful Tips for You

    2. Read the Prompt, Do Research First and then Write, Don't Do All at the Same Time. Essay writing can be as hard and boring AF if you do everything at once. But since you're interested in making the process as flawless, engaging, and interesting as possible, consider doing the assignment in parts.

  11. PDF Strategies for Essay Writing

    Harvard College Writing Center 2 Tips for Reading an Assignment Prompt When you receive a paper assignment, your first step should be to read the assignment prompt carefully to make sure you understand what you are being asked to do. Sometimes your assignment will be open-ended ("write a paper about anything in the course that interests you").

  12. How to Write the Perfect Essay: A Step-By-Step Guide for Students

    As well as some best practice tips, we have gathered our favourite advice from expert essay-writers and compiled the following 7-step guide to writing a good essay every time. 👍. #1 Make sure you understand the question. #2 Complete background reading. #3 Make a detailed plan. #4 Write your opening sentences.

  13. 9 Tips for Writing a Brilliant Motivational Essay

    Table of Contents. 9 Tips to Write a Motivational Letter. 1. Research the Institution to which you are applying. 2. Be Creative. 3. Get Personal in your Motivational Essay. 4.

  14. How to Motivate Yourself to Write a College Essay

    Read the assignment instructions, reach out to your instructor if you have concerns, and start the process. Every time you second-guess yourself, identify it and reason it out instead of giving in to it. As Antoniou and Moriarty stated, "the most important lesson in developing one's writing is to WRITE.".

  15. The Beginner's Guide to Writing an Essay

    Come up with a thesis. Create an essay outline. Write the introduction. Write the main body, organized into paragraphs. Write the conclusion. Evaluate the overall organization. Revise the content of each paragraph. Proofread your essay or use a Grammar Checker for language errors. Use a plagiarism checker.

  16. How to Write a College Essay Step-by-Step

    Step 2: Pick one of the things you wrote down, flip your paper over, and write it at the top of your paper, like this: This is your thread, or a potential thread. Step 3: Underneath what you wrote down, name 5-6 values you could connect to this. These will serve as the beads of your essay.

  17. Tips for Writing Your Motivational Statement and Essays

    Optional Essay Questions. Although the Motivation Statement is required, the essay questions are optional. For all optional essay questions, we aren't just interested in the "right answer," but how you are thinking about and approaching these complex questions.

  18. THE PERSONAL STATEMENT

    How to Write a personal statement A Comprehensive Video Course for Students. A seven-part online course designed to gives students and counselors everything they need to figure out (or help someone else figure out) how to write a personal statement for the Common App. Watch the Q&A sessions after each session where I answer important questions about the personal statement-writing process and ...

  19. 6 Unique Tips for Writing a Brilliant Motivational Essay

    3. Drafts are important. First impressions matters. In the case of college applications, your first impression is in your motivational essay. Of course, you want to give a good first impression. Proper grammar, sentence structure, and punctuation are the key. This is why editing and revising your text is crucial.

  20. 113 Motivation Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

    113 Motivation Essay Topic Ideas & Examples. Motivation is the driving force behind our actions, thoughts, and behaviors. It is what pushes us to achieve our goals, overcome obstacles, and persevere through challenges. Writing an essay on motivation can be a great way to explore the topic and gain a deeper understanding of what motivates us as ...

  21. Motivation Essay

    Motivation is a reason to behave in a particular way. In other words, motivation is derived from motive and motivate which means need, desire within individual or we can say psychological factors stimulating the people's behavior. Motivation can be used in any kind of field... Motivation. 14.

  22. Essays About Motivation Leads to Success: Top 5 Examples

    5 Top Essay Examples. 1. The Power Of Positive Self-Talk by Teri Karjala. "Powerful and positive self-talk can change your entire mindset, which can affect your actions. That, in turn, can have a massive impact on how successful you are on any journey you take or any obstacle you face.".

  23. Motivation Essay for Students and Children

    Q.1 Define what is motivation fit. A.1 This refers to a psychological phenomenon in which a person assumes or expects something from the job or life but gets different results other than his expectations. In a profession, it is a primary criterion for determining if the person will stay or leave the job. Q.2 List some best motivators.