Sometimes, even for the hardcore crochet enthusiast, the motivation slips and one finds it difficult to pick up the hook. This can be baffling and frustrating. Maybe the cause is going through extra stress and feeling low or maybe your current stash of WIPs (works in progress) suddenly seem uninspiring. Whatever the reason, it can be helpful to understand motivation and where it could use some sparking up.
There are two types of motivation: intrinsic and extrinsic. There is lots of content out there defining what they are and their differences, but simply put, intrinsic motivation is when you would do the work simply because you enjoy it and extrinsic motivation involves something outside of yourself compelling you to do the work or complete the task. There are many types of extrinsic motivation: reward, compensation, threat of punishment or negative consequences, disapproval, etc. For myself, one of the best extrinsinc or external motivators is the response or support I receive from others and being accountable to them.
As I reflect back on my accomplishments, I’ve achieved the most challenging goals when I was experiencing this type of extrinsic motivator. It helps me to keep on keeping on when the emotional thread to my intrinsic motivation has gone missing. So I was quite excited to find a group of Instagram crocheters who are hosting, #OrganisedOctober21 and #WIPalong21 to address those abandoned crochet WIPs.
My WIPS had recently begun to pile up. Usually, I try to stick with no more than 2 or 3 projects in progress, but for some reason this fall, that flew out the window. I got distracted by too many CALs and MALs (crochet along or make a long) or feeling overwhelmed by projects that weren’t going well. Then I started feeling scattery and guilty. (If you saw my blog post Organization, you know I’ve been on a mission to be better organized as feeling unfocused reduces the satisfaction I get from crocheting.) So, finding a group of like minded souls working with the same goal was just the kickstart I needed! Plus, it’s fun cheering others on and seeing their projects take shape.
If you’re on Instagram, you can find directions for the WIP along on the bio page of one of the following host accounts: @andintothetrees (Hannah), @goslingandplumb (Laura), @laboursoflovecrochet (Ruth), @marta.mitchell.designs (Marta Mitchell), or @sewcraftynaz (Nasreen). They’re providing fun weekly prompts, tips and Live IGTV episodes to keep you going. Laura @goslingand plumb even has several free printouts to help you plan your goals for the month. I find the Bingo sheet, pictured above, to be especially motivating as I chose rewards for myself based on how many bingos I complete. You can also add in a few other projects you’re wanting to keep up on, such as exercise, reading, or whatever!
If you’re missing your inspiration to create, it’s not too late to join in. You’ve still got almost 4 solid weeks to participate and I’m finding it to be a lovely, welcoming community.
I love hearing about methods for boosting productivity/creativity. Let me know what you have tried.
Crochet at the Lodge 