The best motivator for me is seeing progress. Getting started on something new is the big hurdle.

I have to break projects apart into smaller pieces so I can show myself I'm progressing towards the end goal and not just stuck on a treadmill.

Once started, it's much easier to keep going. This applies to just about everything I can think of. Take the first step, build momentum.

Having goals or soft deadlines helps too. Tell a friend you're going to show them progress by a certain time.