Unmotivated Teens: 6 Ways to Encourage Motivation
Teens are often stereotyped as being unmotivated or even “lazy.”
But, if you’re a parent of a teenager, you might understand why.
While it’s not exactly fair to group all teens under that umbrella, it can sometimes feel difficult to get your tired teen up and moving.
Sound familiar?
While there’s a good chance your teenager will eventually grow out of their lack of motivation, it’s a good rule of thumb to encourage it now.
Motivated teens can set themselves up for better opportunities in the future and improve their overall mental and physical health by being proactive about things.
So, what can you do to encourage motivation? Let’s cover a few tips.
1. Tap Into Their Interests
One of the best ways to boost your teen’s motivation is to engage their passions in everyday activities.
Do they love music?
Play their favorite artist while doing household chores.
Are they sports-oriented?
Find ways to “gamify” certain activities, including homework!
By tapping into their interests, you’ll help your teen realize that they can find enjoyment in just about anything — even the tasks they don’t particularly want to do.
2. Break Things Down
No one wants to tackle huge, daunting tasks — especially teenagers.
So, help them out by breaking things down into smaller, more approachable pieces.
Dividing projects makes them seem less overwhelming. Setting small goals can improve motivation, as well.
As your teen accomplishes each one, they’ll feel a sense of pride and fulfillment and be more eager to take on the next challenge.
3. Be a Role Model
You might not think that your teen is paying attention to what you’re doing, but they are.
If you want them to be more motivated, show them what it looks like.
Take on daily tasks, tackle challenges as they come, and be a positive role model for motivation.
They look up to you more than you might realize.
4. Connect the Dots
Some teenagers have a hard time getting motivated about specific tasks because they don’t see the point.
Showing them that there is a reason for things can be the tool they need to get moving.
For example, doing chores around the house can foster organizational skills, problem-solving skills, and more.
They can use those skills as they eventually step into the real world.
They will make finding a job easier, foster healthy relationships, and more.
When you help them connect those dots, they’re more likely to get things done.
5. Provide Positive Reinforcement
Don’t be afraid to offer genuine praise when your teen does something or completes a task on their own.
As parents, it’s easy to focus on the negative side of things or provide what seems like constant criticism.
Instead, recognize them for a job well done.
When constructive criticism is necessary, provide it with respect and encouragement rather than using it to bring your teen down.
Everyone wants to feel acknowledgment for the things they do, and it can be a fantastic way to bolster your teen’s self-esteem.
6. Foster Open Communication
There might be a deeper reason for your teen’s lack of motivation that you haven’t discovered yet.
One of the best things you can do to encourage motivation and learn more about how your teenager is feeling is simply to talk to them.
You can’t force a conversation, of course.
But let them know you’re there. Ask how they are feeling.
Make sure you validate those feelings.
By fostering a home of open communication, you’ll start to understand their perspective.
If communication is a struggle for you, or you’re still having a hard time getting your teen to be motivated, consider reaching out for help.