Social Media has become somewhat of a buzzword these days. Besides of staying connected with friends, I also like to use social networking sites for self-empowerment purposes. Doing this has drastically boosted my energy and confidence to do the things that would, otherwise, be considered impossible. In my opinion, motivation is the fuel on the furnace if you want to succeed. Therefore, the usage of social media as a “Daily Dose of Motivation” tool should become more widespread. In this post, I will share 10 tips on how to motivate yourself with different types of Web 2.0 tools.
1. Twitter #Hashtags
Being a huge fan of Twitter, I have discovered so many creative ways to put this microblogging tool into good use. For example, the hashtag (#) feature on Twitter can let you find tweets fast based on your criteria. To empower yourself each day, try Twitter search for either #quote or #inspiration, and you will get an influx of really inspiring goodies.
2. Google Reader
Do you have a list of decent personal development blogs? If not, check out this list from PluginID (best personal development blogs). Then go grab Google Reader (My favorite RSS reader) and subscribe to your favorite inspiration blogs. By doing so, you have chosen to be notified each time a new post is published on any of your subscribed blogs.
3. YouTube Videos
Several weeks ago, I compiled a list of the most inspiring YouTube videos of all-time. If it has come to your realization that motivation doesn’t last, you should resort to watch inspirational YouTube videos each day. My list is a good starting point. If you want more, search for motivational video clips on YouTube or any other video sharing sites.
4. iTune Podcast
If you like Youtube videos, chances are good that some podcasts can work out for you too. It is convenient to load them to your iPhone or iPod and listen to them while driving or on subway. Here are several self-empowerment podcasts that I recommend:
- Personal Growth Podcast
- My thought Coach
- The Daily Boost | The Positive Boost You Need Everyday
- MorningCoach.com
- Law of Attraction Tips
- Meditation Station
Type in the title of the podcast on your iTune and you can download them for free.
5. Amazon Books
Amazon Kindle
Amazon is the new hotspot in the Web 2.0 age when it comes to buying books and CDs online. Amazon.com has always been the “go-to” place for me as an important personal development source. Even better, its interactive user review feature is the cornerstone of Web 2.0 technology. I have compile a “What-to-buy” list previously which illustrates what books are worth considering on Amazon. If you like their books, I would encourage you to give a try to Amazon’s Kindle: The Wireless Reading Device.
6. Audible Audio Books
Think of an audio version that goes along with your newly purchased Amazon books? Go for Audible.com. Even better, you can get discounts off their product if you sign up as a member. I have downloaded seminars from speakers such as Zig Ziglar, Brian Tracy, and Jim Rohn. It’s priceless considering the substantial value you get with those audio materials.
7. Meetup Groups
It is important to surround yourself with positive people. I have discovered a wonderful Web 2.0 site that uses the internet to organize local community groups with local offline meetings. You probably have heard of the site Meetup.com. Because I realized the importance of gathering like-minded and positive individuals, I have created the NYC Personal Development Mastermind Group (Top 20 Meetup groups). If you like, try to search for a similar Meetup group near you. Even better, you can start a group and organize one yourself.
8. Online Communities
There have been amazing online communities forming each day where like-minded people share ideas to keep each other motivated. The #1 site that I recommend here is David Riklan’s SelfGrowth.com, which claims to be the #1 Self Improvement Site on the Internet. Personally, I don’t think that’s an overstatement given the enormous following on the Internet the site has attracted over the last 10 years. Watch the following video from the founder, David Riklan.
Of course, there are other online communities such as Facebook or LinkedIn groups (Top 30 LinkedIn Groups). Do a search on each of those sites. and you will discover some great groups!
9. Connect with Me
To find out the value I add to my community, you are welcome to check me out on Twitter, Facebook and, of course, read more on this blog. Don’t hesitate to connect with me or subscribe to my blog feeds. After all, what’s better than having a live Twitter buddy who is doing his best to help you keep moving forward each day?
10. Keep Dreaming
In order to achieve, you must keep dreaming, because you can’t fly any higher than your imagination. Here is what I suggest you do. Spend a tiny fraction of your time each day Goolge-imaging your dream houses, your fantasy vacation resorts, your A-list cars, the boys and girls that you are dying to be with…. As Albert Einstein puts it, “Your imagination is your preview to life’s coming attractions.“ Use high-tech tools to help you dream. Why? Because when you have a big enough “Why,” the “How” will reveal itself.
That’s it for this time. Any suggestions and comments? How do you keep yourself motivated? Let us know if you have anything to add to this list.
