how to seek and sustain motivation

Our graphic designer from ICU branding agency, Ilya Obukhov, gave a lecture at Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, where he discussed the topic «What is motivation, how to sustain it, and where to find it» with students.

Motivation is essential in all areas, as it helps us achieve desired outcomes and stay on course with our plans.

Setting a goal requires a clear structure. We use the SMART framework, which includes five criteria:

1. — specific;
2. — measurable;
3. — attainable;
4. — relevant;
5. — time-bound.

The objective is to move from point A to point B. To do so efficiently, the goal should be broken down into smaller steps. Recognizing even small achievements along the way is important.

Motivation builds on basic principles:

1. Autonomy — the need to feel we have a choice.

2. Belonging — the feeling that we contribute to something larger than ourselves.

3. Competence — the assurance that we can handle daily challenges

If someone is deprived of choice, the other two principles weaken as well.

Conditions that support motivation include:

1. — relevant goals — setting measurable, achievable goals;
2. — positive mindset — creating an atmosphere that energizes us for results;
3. — focus — concentrating on tasks and solutions;
4. — confidence — seeing each step as experience and expertise building;
5. — perseverance — expressing opinions and defending values;
6. — curiosity — showing interest, engaging deeply, and learning from experienced specialists.

Hyper-motivation can lead to burnout. To avoid hyper-focus consequences:

1. — practice self-care: take breaks as needed;
2. — think objectively: maintain balance among tasks;
3. — mentally prepare: accept that goals may not always be met, but life goes on;
4. — refuel: recharge as you work towards your goals.

Our designer shared his personal motivation journey. His “Point A” was a strong desire to delve into design. Although he had some Photoshop skills and experience creating merchandise, this wasn’t enough to become a full-fledged designer. Dedication and a commitment to learning paid off: a portfolio and eventually an internship at ICU branding agency.

Point B became a position as a graphic designer in the agency's promotion team, where he now enjoys all aspects of the job and teamwork.

A strong team enhances motivation and helps overcome challenges, fueling professional growth. For example, our creative director supported Ilya while he developed a sticker pack for ICU by:

1. — offering encouragement, reassurance, and praise;
2. — reviewing difficulties, giving tips, and sharing insights;
3. — supervising each stage of the project.

Despite challenges, the sticker pack was successfully completed.

Motivation is essential in professional settings, especially when early-career professionals are seeking employment. A well-crafted portfolio showcases skills, knowledge, and motivation, highlighting:

1. — adaptability;
2. — core competencies;
3. — specific skills and experience;
4. — structure;
5. — a modern approach;
6. — motivation for successful results.

Common portfolio mistakes can reduce opportunities:

1. Inconvenient viewing formats;

2. Showing only one type of work;

3. Missing contact information or social media links;

4. Skipping a cover letter or sender’s name;

5. Overloading with too many projects;

6. Omitting a description of the role in each project.

Motivation needs to be nurtured because it’s essential in everything: from simple tasks like making a bed to more complex goals like securing a job, completing work assignments, or realizing a lifelong dream.

The lecture materials are available here.