Why You Feel Stuck - and How to Get Motivated

What is this lesson about?

This motivation ESL lesson plan helps C1–C2 learners explore why people lose momentum in the middle of a project and how to push through setbacks. Students build advanced vocabulary, engage with a video on the psychology of motivation, and reflect on strategies to stay resilient and focused.

What language will students learn?

Learners study advanced terms such as setback, benchmark, momentum, impenetrable, engaged, incremental, untethered, and galvanise.They also practise functional language for:

Describing challenges: I hit a major setback in the middle of the project. Explaining progress: Small, incremental steps can build momentum. Reflecting on motivation: I need something to galvanise me into action.

How do students practise?

The lesson develops critical thinking and fluency step by step:

• Warm-up discussions about feeling stuck and staying motivated.

• Vocabulary matching and gap-fills with advanced mindset-related terms.

• Video activity and comprehension tasks with True/False and quote completions.

• Scenario-based advice discussions to apply key ideas in real life.

• Speaking and reflection tasks where students share strategies and create a short motivation plan.
  

Why is this lesson useful?

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

• Talk confidently about motivation, resilience, and productivity.

• Use advanced vocabulary and expressions in meaningful discussions.

• Analyse real motivational challenges and suggest realistic solutions.

• Build fluency in discussing abstract, psychological, and self-development themes.
  

Who is it for?

Designed for advanced adult learners (C1–C2), this lesson suits wellbeing-focused ESL classes, business English courses, and coaching-style sessions that encourage reflection, mindset growth, and fluent self-expression.