• Know what you need to do. If your tasks seem daunting, or you are not sure where to start, consider making a list of things that need to get done. This can be motivating because writing things down makes the tasks more manageable. Go one step further and write down not only what you need to do, but how you are going to get there. For example, if you are having company that night and need to clean the house, make a list of what needs to be done and write down ways to accomplish the tasks, such as, "Have kids help with dishes," or "Do floors last."
• Set deadlines. If you are trying to do schoolwork or projects at work, chances are you will already have a deadline in place. Deadlines are motivating because they allow you to stay focused with a goal in mind. Without a deadline, there is no urgency to complete your tasks and you are not as motivated to finish them.
• Steer clear of distractions. There will always be a distraction that will keep you from getting a task complete. You will be less motivated to stay on task if there are many things surrounding you, like the TV, friends, and so forth. So if you need to do homework or study, go find a quiet place in the library where there are less distractions. Or if a coworker keeps coming over to talk and you find it distracting, put earphones in or close your office door to keep distractions at bay.
• Reward yourself. A reward can be a powerful motivator to stay on task. Think of a reward for staying on task, such as, "If I finish my homework by 8, I can watch my favorite TV show," or "Once I get this project finished, I'll treat myself to ice cream." Whatever the reward is, it can be the motivator you need to stay on task.
• Give yourself a break. It can be hard to stay on task if there is no end in sight. One way to motivate you to stay on task is to allow yourself to take a break every now and then. This will give you a chance to get a drink, stretch, or walk around. Taking a break will also help you to clear your head a little, so when you get back to work you will be more focused and able to stay on task.
• Think of the end result. By focusing on what you will accomplish at the end of the task, you can stay motivated to complete your task. For example, if you need to stay on task to study, you can get motivated by thinking of the great grade you'll get. Or, if you need motivation to stay on task at work, think of how easy it would be for your boss to fire you if you don't finish your job. The good or bad outcome of the end result will help motivate you to stay on task.

These are just a few things you can do to get motivated to stay on task.