Motivation is a tricky thing.
It’s key to putting us in the right mindset to get strategic about a goal and take conscious action on a consistent basis, and yet we rarely know where that inner power comes from and how to get it when we need it.
In times of desperation, hopelessness, or when we fear failure or let outer factors affect our mind and decisions, motivation isn’t usually there to give us the determination needed to get through these.
But let’s take control of that aspect of our life too, as it can be the one thing we do that increases our chances of success, in whatever it is that we want to achieve, whether it is a professional success or making a girl to like you.
1. Purpose.
We’re all looking for meaning in our lives. And there’s no bigger motivator to do something, no matter how difficult it is or how long it takes, other than to really want to do it.
Nothing else really matters – our current situation in life might be bad, we might not be advancing at work or be okay financially, or things in our relationships or health might be going wrong. But if we have this desire deep within, if we know what we want and are determined to have it, there’s nothing that can possibly stop a mind focused on an end vision.
2. Progress.
When I go back to the moments when I did my best job, performed better than ever, were more focused and energetic than usual, there’s one thing that was always the same – I’d seen a little progress with a project or goal, and I wanted more.
Getting further makes you want to take the next step, and the one after that.
That’s great, as it’s a surefire way to constantly be moving ahead. But what does it take to make that first step?
That’s usually the irony. No one but you can make you take the first action. When you do, though, magical processes begin in your mind and you become more powerful, determined, and start using more of your potential.
Luckily, your first move doesn’t need to be big. You just need to start somewhere and thus build momentum.
According to Harvard professor Teresa Amabile, tracking these small wins can keep you motivated till you see even more progress, which itself will encourage you to keep going without complaining, being exhausted, getting distracted by other goals, or else.
3. Intrinsic Motivation.
It might be the desire for personal and spiritual growth, as it is with most students learning a new skill.
It might be the challenge when learning a new language or aiming at a higher position at work.
It might be the joy of learning that makes you read on a daily basis and put the things you know into practice.
When a teacher has his own personal reasons for inspiring others, leaving a dent in the universe, or just wanting to change the lives of a few particular students, then he’s able to go to work energetic every day and find a way to get to the kids, whatever it takes.
So, the next time you’re looking for motivators, look no further than inside. The deep internal motivation is not only the strongest and most effective, but also the one that leads to pure satisfaction.
