How to Find Motivation

Have you ever found yourself lounging on the couch, binge-watching your favorite series, and thinking, “I really should be doing something productive right now”? Yep, we’ve all been there. Finding motivation can be like trying to catch a butterfly with your bare hands – it seems almost impossible, but oh boy, when you catch it, it's magical!

So, let's crack this mystery together and find out how to summon that elusive beast called motivation.

All right, let's be honest about motivation. It's like that secret sauce, that "mojo", that "jazz" in your step that keeps you moving towards those big, shiny goals. But here's the twist: Motivation isn't just about feeling excited after watching a motivational video or after downing a triple-shot espresso. It's a whole psychological thing.

Imagine motivation as this cool, complex engine under your life’s hood. Psychologists have taken this engine apart and found two main gears: intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation.

Intrinsic Motivation - Your Inner Fireworks

This is the stuff that comes from within, like a personal cheer squad in your heart. It’s about doing things that make your soul do a happy dance. Love painting? That’s intrinsic motivation making you pick up the brush, not the promise of turning into the next Picasso or getting Insta-famous. It’s what makes you do stuff even if nobody’s watching or clapping. When your job or goals tap into this kind of motivation, watch out world, because you’re about to take off like a rocket!

Extrinsic Motivation - The Carrot on a Stick

Now, this one’s a bit different. It’s the external goodies that you get for doing stuff. Think bonuses, trophies, high-fives, or even avoiding a telling-off. It’s like when you were a kid and did chores for that sweet allowance. Sure, extrinsic motivation can give you a quick boost, like a motivational espresso shot. It gets you going, but relying solely on it is like trying to run a marathon on just caffeine and willpower – eventually, you’re gonna need something more substantial.

So you see, motivation isn’t just a feeling. It’s a blend of internal fireworks and external incentives. The trick is to find the right balance between what sets your soul on fire and what the world throws at you as a high-five. Mix them right, and you’ve got yourself an unstoppable force.

Ever noticed how some of the most successful people have strict routines? That’s because routines build habits, and habits form the backbone of long-term success. When you automate the steps toward your goals, you free up mental space for big-picture thinking.

Small Steps Have Big Impact

Start small – make your bed, read ten pages of a book, and meditate for five minutes. These small habits compound over time, building the foundation for bigger successes.

Identify Your 'Why'

Ask yourself, “Why do I want to do this?” Is it for personal growth, happiness, or maybe to prove that naysaying uncle wrong? Finding your 'why' is like finding the north star for your motivation compass.

Simon Sinek, in his famous TED talk, urges people to “Start With Why.” Knowing your ‘why’ – the purpose behind what you do – is like having a personal cheerleader and coach rolled into one. It keeps your motivation authentic and aligned with your values.

Set Goals That Spark Joy

Marie Kondo your goals – do they spark joy? If not, it might be time to declutter. Set goals that excite you, and that make you jump out of bed in the morning. Remember, a goal without a plan is just a wish!

You’ve probably heard of SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound). They’re not just fancy words; they’re a psychological toolkit for turning nebulous dreams into achievable plans. By setting SMART goals, you give your motivation a clear direction and a measurable finish line.

Break It Down Now

Overwhelmed by the size of your goals? Break them down into smaller, bite-sized tasks. It's like eating a pizza; you don't wolf it down in one go (or maybe you do, no judgment!).

Celebrate the Small Wins

Got through a day without procrastinating? That’s a win. Celebrate it! Small victories add up and keep the motivation flame burning.

Find Your Tribe

Surround yourself with people who lift you up, not those who drain your energy. Ever noticed how motivation is contagious? Be mindful of your entourage, because they may lift you up or not.

Mix Up the Routine

Boredom is the arch-nemesis of motivation. Mix things up! Try a new approach, work in a different environment, or switch up your schedule. Don't give up!

But Wait, There’s More! The Role of Mindset

The Power of Yet: Adopt a growth mindset. Can’t do something? Add a 'yet' at the end. It’s not “I can’t do this,” it’s “I can’t do this, yet.” See the difference?

The Positivity Potion: Stay positive, even when things get tough. Remember, your attitude can be a magnet for motivation.

The Secret Ingredient to staying motivated is developing emotional intelligence that helps you navigate the ups and downs of your success journey. It’s about managing your emotions, empathizing with others, and maintaining a positive, yet realistic, outlook.

Remember, the road to success is uniquely yours. It’s paved with the bricks of your motivation, your goals, your habits, and most importantly, your passion and perseverance. Embrace the journey with all its twists and turns, because that’s where the magic happens.

Finding motivation isn't a one-size-fits-all kind of deal. It's a personal journey, a treasure hunt where you’re both the map and the treasure. Experiment with different strategies, see what works for you, and remember – motivation is a muscle; the more you use it, the stronger it gets.

So, what are you waiting for? Go find your mojo, and let's turn those dreams into reality! Together, we’re building a community of go-getters and dream-chasers! Spread the motivation, and let’s all get moving!