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June 20, 2025 3 mins

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Motivation is great—until it’s gone. And let’s be honest, it always fades.

In today’s Thrive in 5, I’ll show you how to build habits and systems that support you even on the days you don’t feel like it. Because your goals don’t need a perfect version of you they just need you to keep showing up.

What we cover:

  • Why relying on motivation leads to inconsistency
  • How to shrink habits to make them “unskippable”
  • The magic of habit stacking
  • How to create systems that reduce friction and burnout

🎯 You don’t have to feel inspired. You just need a plan that works, especially on the hard days.

👉 Tag @ExclusivelyCindy on instagram/facebook and share how you’re using this tip—I’d love to connect and hear your story!

💡 Don’t forget to subscribe for more quick tips on productivity and mindset in 5 minutes or less!

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The OVERWHELM CURE - Beat overwhelm in one hour! - https://exclusivelycindy.thrivecart.com/the-overwhelm-cure/
Daily Success Framework - Learn more here:
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Connect with Cindy:

Website: ExclusivelyCindy.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exclusivelycindy/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@cindygordon

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Transcript

Episode Transcript

Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:00):
when motivation fades and itwill.
What keeps you going?
In this episode of Thrive InFive, I'll show you how habits
and systems help you stayconsistent even when your
energy, inspiration andwillpower is low.

(00:41):
Let's talk about what reallykeeps you moving towards your
goals.
Spoiler alert, it's notmotivation.
Motivation is amazing when it'sthere.
When you're fired up, inspired,ready to take on the world.
But motivation is a feeling andfeelings.
Are fleeting if you only takeaction when you're motivated,
your progress will be well andconsistent at best.

(01:05):
The real key here is habits andsystems, and here's how to build
a rhythm that doesn't rely onyour mood first.
Make it so easy, you can't skipit.
If your habit feelsoverwhelming, you'll avoid it on
the hard days, so shrink itdown.
Want to journal daily?
Just start with one sentence.
Want to work out, commit to fiveminutes.

(01:26):
The smaller it is, the morelikely you'll stick with it,
especially when motivation islow.
You can also tie it to anexisting routine.
This is one of my favorite waysto make habits stick You stack
them.
Want to plan your day?
Do it right after your morningcoffee.
Want to review your goals?
Do it right before you open yourlaptop.

(01:49):
When a habit is attached tosomething you're already doing,
it becomes automatic use systemsto reduce decision fatigue.
If you have to decide what to doevery single day, your brain
will get tired and fast systems.
Remove that friction.
Create a weekly planning ritual.
Use templates for social media,emails and check-ins.

(02:12):
Prep, close meals or task listsin advance.
This will make your life easieron the future you.
This works because whenmotivation fades.
And it will.
Habits and systems are yoursafety net.
They will carry you through thevalleys and keep you moving
forward even when your spark isgone.

(02:32):
You don't have to feel inspiredto show up.
You just need a process sohere's a recap and some action
steps to implement this.
Start small, build habits thatyou can keep even on tough days.
Anchor your habits to routinesyou already have.
Create simple systems to avoiddaily decision fatigue.

(02:52):
Consistency isn't about beingperfect.
It's about showing up even whenyou don't feel like it.
Let your systems carry you untilyour motivation returns.
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