Motivation & Goal Setting

Struggling with motivation at work, at home, or within yourself? Finding it hard to stick to goals, maintain routines, or take the first step? At Head Start Counselling & Psychology, our psychologists and counsellors in Geelong work with you to explore what’s holding you back — and help you reconnect with your drive, purpose, and direction.

What Is Motivation?

Motivation is the internal force that drives us to act — the reason we pursue goals, change habits, or push through discomfort. It shapes not only what we do, but how much energy and persistence we bring to it. Motivation can come from within (intrinsic), like a desire for personal growth, or from external rewards (extrinsic), like recognition or success.

Why Motivation Fades

Low motivation can be frustrating and disheartening — and it’s often misunderstood. Some common contributors include:

• Perfectionism or all-or-nothing thinking that leads to avoidance
• Unrealistic expectations and frustration with slow progress
• Negative self-talk or fear of failure
• Burnout, stress, or unresolved emotional blocks
• Misaligned goals that don’t reflect your true values

Understanding the root cause is key to creating lasting change.

How We Can Help

Our team uses evidence-based therapy approaches to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. This may include:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to challenge unhelpful beliefs and increase positive action
• Motivational Interviewing (MI) to align goals with your personal values and increase internal motivation
• Goal-setting support to break down larger aspirations into clear, achievable steps
• Self-compassion and resilience work to overcome fear, self-sabotage, or past failures
• Exploring your ‘why’ to reconnect with meaning, purpose, and direction

Therapy is not about forcing motivation — it’s about helping you clear the blocks that get in the way of action and reconnect with what matters to you.

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unmotivated, help is available. At Head Start Counselling & Psychology, we’ll work with you to build momentum, clarify goals, and reignite your inner drive — at your own pace.