The Truth About Motivation
Do you struggle to motivate yourself?
This is the most common problem I hear from my clients.
Yes, you can do things like hire an accountability coach (me!), but it doesn’t change the fact that you still need to do the actual work.
It’s highly unlikely you’re going to want to show up and put in the work all of the time. So if you’ve ever wondered why some days you feel ready to conquer the world, while on others, even the simplest tasks seem insurmountable, first of all, I want you to know that you are totally not alone!
Understanding that motivation ebbs and flows can free us from the guilt of 'off days' and help us focus on building habits that sustain progress, regardless of our mood.
In this blog post I hope to help demystify motivation and by painting a clearer picture of what it is, perhaps you can have a better understanding of how to cultivate it.
So let’s explore; what is motivation, really? Is it a random wind that blows productivity into our sails?
Motivation can be divided into two categories: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic motivation comes from within, driven by personal satisfaction, curiosity, or a desire for self-improvement. Extrinsic motivation is fueled by external rewards, like money, recognition, or social approval. While both types can be powerful, relying solely on extrinsic factors can be unsustainable. Cultivating intrinsic motivation leads to long-term engagement and fulfillment.
Here's the empowering part: you can create and influence your motivation by setting clear, achievable goals, and then breaking them down into small, manageable tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Another very powerful thing you can do is surround yourself with sources of inspiration and support, be it people, books, or an environment conducive to your goals. An easy way I like to do this is by listening to inspirational podcasts.
A prevalent myth is that highly successful people are constantly motivated. In reality, motivation is not a constant. It's normal for it to fluctuate. Even the most accomplished individuals have days where they lack drive. The key difference is their reliance on discipline over fleeting feelings of enthusiasm.
Alongside having discipline, acknowledging and celebrating even your small victories can continue to boost your motivation significantly.
One of my favorite catchphrases to remember on the subject is: Motivation gets you started, but habit keeps you going. Establishing routines reduces the mental energy needed to get tasks done. When a behavior becomes habitual, it requires less effort to maintain, and this leaves room for motivation to recharge and reemerge.
Understanding your motivation roadblocks is also very helpful. Common roadblocks include tendencies towards procrastination, a fear of failure, and a lack of clear goals. Addressing these obstacles often involves introspection and sometimes, a change in approach or mindset.
The truth about motivation is that it's not just a feeling but a skill that can be developed. It's about harnessing the right mindset, creating supportive habits, and understanding what drives you. Remember, motivation is personal and fluid; what works for one may not work for another. So, find what ignites your passion and discipline, and let that guide you to your goals.
Check out my podcast episode here where I share my 10 top tips for cultivating a positive mindset, and in turn, sustained motivation and drive.
