What's the best piece of motivation that you've received so far?
Make a motivation jar by writing encouraging notes, decorating the jar, and reading one daily to boost confidence and positivity.
Step-by-step guide to make a motivation jar
Step 1
Gather all your materials and bring them to a clear workspace where you can sit comfortably.
Step 2
Rinse and dry the jar so it is clean and ready to use.
Step 3
Use scissors to cut the paper into many small strips about the size of a finger.
Step 4
Write at least twelve short encouraging messages one on each paper strip using your pen.
Step 5
Fold each paper strip neatly so the message stays private until it is read.
Step 6
Decorate the outside of the jar using coloring materials stickers ribbon washi tape or glue to make it fun.
Step 7
Create a label that says Motivation Jar and stick it on the jar so everyone knows what it is.
Step 8
Put all the folded notes into the jar one by one until it feels full and colorful.
Step 9
Place the jar somewhere you will see it every day like on your desk shelf or bedside table.
Step 10
Every morning or whenever you need a boost pick one note from the jar and read it aloud to yourself.
Step 11
Add one new encouraging note to the jar each week to keep the messages fresh and surprising.
Step 12
Share a photo and a short story about your finished Motivation Jar on DIY.org
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
What can I use if I don't have a glass jar for the Motivation Jar?
Use a clean, rinsed-and-dried yogurt cup, empty coffee tin, or plastic food container in place of the jar and decorate its outside with your coloring materials, stickers, ribbon, washi tape, or glue just like the instructions say to make it look like a Motivation Jar.
My paper strips keep unfolding or the notes fall out—how do I fix that?
Cut the paper into finger-size strips as instructed, fold each message tightly so it stays private, and secure loose folds with a tiny piece of tape or a dab of glue from your decorating supplies so they won't unfold or fall out.
How can I adapt this activity for younger children or older kids?
For preschoolers, have them draw simple encouraging pictures on larger strips and help with folding and decorating the jar, while older kids can write twelve specific encouraging messages and commit to adding one new weekly note to keep it fresh.
What are some ways to make the Motivation Jar more special or useful over time?
Color-code notes or use washi tape and labels to create themed sections (like gratitude or confidence), tuck in small photos or tiny keepsakes with the folded notes, and then place the jar where you'll see it daily and share a photo and story on DIY.org as the instructions suggest.
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Facts about emotional wellbeing and positive self-talk for kids
✨ A single positive reminder (like a note) can quickly shift your mood and help reduce stress in a tough moment.
📝 Handwriting your thoughts helps your brain remember them better than typing — great for making motivational notes stick!
🎨 Personalizing a jar or object makes people more likely to use it and keep a habit going because it feels special and owned.
📆 Reading one encouraging note a day builds a tiny daily ritual that gradually boosts confidence and positivity over time.
🙏 Regular gratitude practices are linked to improved mood, better sleep, and greater resilience.
How do I make a motivation jar with my child?
What materials do I need to make a motivation jar?
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