When we are motivated we're energetic, focused, and we get things done. Too many of us have ambitions we want to achieve but we wait for the motivation before we get going. The good news is that we can all learn practical actions to boost our motivation, keep it high, and so achieve our ambitions.

*       Know what you want and why you want it. You may know what you want; the pay rise, the new job, new staff, etc. but do you really know why you want them? Time spent deciding why you want the change will help you focus on precisely what you want and the more importantly what it will do for you. When you have identified what you want, and why you want it, write it down. When the going gets tough come back to these thoughts, remember what is in it for you, and get back on track.

*       Nothing boosts our motivation like success! When you plan how you will achieve your ambitions break it into manageable chunks and schedule in rewards after each stage. If your plan involves others remember to keep them informed of successes and congratulate them on their achievements. Remember, we all love rewards, bonuses and positive feedback.

*       Be positive! Speak positively about your plan to others and to yourself. If you are doing something you have never done before it is normal to be scared but fear is simply your mind telling you that you are stepping out of your comfort zone and it is not a reason to turn back. If you do what you have always done you will get what you have always got.

*       Choose your confidants with care! Unfortunately we all know people who are apathetic, negative, and over-critical. Do not let these people trample on your dreams or quash your enthusiasm. Talk to people who are interested in your plans, in your development, who support and encourage you through the tough moments and congratulate you when you do well. These positive people will occasionally point out pitfalls but they do this to help you avoid mistakes, not to hold you back. Find the positive people, support their ideas and ask for their support in yours. Bear in mind that without innovation we would have no wheel, and so no bike, car, train or plane!

*       It's all gone wrong! Sometimes events will over take you, your plans have to go on a back burner for a while, you're thrown off track and your motivation dips. Accept that this is normal and happens to us all. As soon as you've got your breathe back got back to your plan, change the actions or the timescales if need be, and swing back into action. Remember, you haven't failed until you have given up trying to succeed.