Motivation is for many difficult to define. But let’s understand what it is and what it is not. Motivation is the driving force behind our decisions and thus, our actions.
When I receive a request to be a keynote speaker at a conference, I get a shiver down my spine if I am referred to as a “motivational speaker.” You can imagine why. So, when coaching one on one with somebody for their own public speaking, I make the distinction between an inspirational talk and what is widely considered motivational.
An inspirational speech, conversation, book or even movie is food for thought. Like a sermon on Sunday morning, it causes one to reflect on his or her own values. A motivational program, however, is one that creates a sense of urgency to take action. It compels us to do something different from what we were already, and with that, encourages us to move toward success. The main difference between the two is; action.
Motivation itself can be divided into two types: autonomous and controlled. Basically, this is internal versus external. A controlled stimulus at work could be a paycheck or the fear of being fired. It goes to the carrot and the stick or pain versus pleasure.
We are all aware of experiments using lab rats. A rodent in a cardboard box
sniffs its way through the maze to find cheese, an external stimulant. The furry critter gets the cheese and doesn’t die of starvation; carrot and stick. But what if the rat, knowing cheese is somewhere near, still decides to jump out of the box and run for freedom? THAT is internal motivation.
Tapping into our autonomous motivation can be done by identifying our values and passions, and aligning our goals with them. No one will ever find their inherent stimulus at work knowing they, much like the rat, are in a dead-end job. When we are engaged in activities that align with our values and passions, we are more likely to be motivated to pursue them.
One way to increase autonomous motivation is through self-reflection. By taking the time to reflect on our values, passions, and goals, we can gain a better understanding of what truly motivates us. Creating a life plan will help facilitate this. It’s much like writing a business plan for an organization that wishes to secure a loan. The plan shows strengths, weaknesses, and a map of how to move forward.
To catch that internal fire, focus on the process of achievement itself rather
than the outcome itself. Success is contagious even when it’s broken down into smaller pieces. This is because the process of accomplishment along the way is often more fulfilling than the outcome itself.
It is also important to surround ourselves with positive influences and to practice self-care. Surrounding ourselves with people who support and encourage us can help to boost our motivation. Jim Rohn stated; “We are the average of the five people we spend the most time with.” So, is that good or bad? Only you can answer that.
Perhaps the greatest internal motivator of all is our thoughts. Our self-talk
will make or break us in terms of personal excellence. Many suffer from what my elementary school teacher referred to as; stinkin’ thinkin’. A lot of those who are pierced with self-doubt or dooms day scenarios in their head never had a positive role model. So, it’s up to oneself to change their course of individual evolution.
We can do this by reading good books, watching positive videos, or getting a better class of friends. It is possible to retrain our brain, but it takes a lot of conscious thought to override the years of negative subconscious thought.
So, if you’re looking for a sign, here it is! No one will ever motivate you toward personal excellence other than yourself. Understanding what your passions and values are, enjoying achievements along the way and being around those who are encouraging will lead you to success. But remember, there is no true motivation without action.
Blaine Little is the owner of Momentum Seminars Training & Coaching. For additional information on one-on-one coaching, call (615) 513-6443 or visit; http://MomentumSeminars.com