Motivation is an Inside Job

We've all known people who were highly motivated. And,of course, we have also known those who do not have a motivational bone in his or her body. What makes the difference in the two people? - PURPOSE or MEANING. The critical characteristic of the highly motivated is a drivingpurpose or meaning for what he or she wants to achieve.

Energy Performance Tip: Motivation is defined as "a moving cause." It proceeds from the meaning you place on what you want. Meaning is determined by our present context or what situations we find ourselves in. For example, if you see your present situation as hopeless you have defined a purpose, - "hopelessness" - and your motivation and energy will be given to how hopeless it is.

On the other hand if you "purpose" to do something about the present situation all your energy and motivation will be given to that.

So, what's the greatest threat to personal motivation - How I define my present situation! The critical question is,"What am I going to do about it?"

"Always bear in mind that your own resolution to success is more important than any other one thing."
- Abraham Lincoln

"The difference between getting somewhere and nowhere is the courage to make an early start."
- Charles M. Schwab

Energy Development Tip: Motivation is not about what others are going to do to make you feel, think or behave better. Many people are caught in this trap -- hoping that someone will come along who will motivate them to get the job done. Then there are those who are waiting on something to happen, a better market, better product, etc., so they can feel more motivated. Motivation is about what "I" determine to do. The first step is to realistically define present circumstances - good, bad, or ugly. The second step is to define a clear and concise purpose or meaning for what I want to achieve. As you define what you want (or your purpose), and stick with it, motivation and energy will follow.

"Courage is sustained by calling up the vision of the goal."
- A. G. Sertillanges

"The secret of discipline is motivation. When a man is sufficiently motivated, discipline will take care of itself."
- Niccolo Machiavelli

Have a great week.

Dr. Bob