Finding True Motivation: The Journey Within
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Chapter 1: Understanding Motivation
What drives you to take action? It’s a seemingly straightforward inquiry that many people struggle to answer correctly.
“What motivates you?”
This simple question can open up a realm of complex thoughts, much like other profound life inquiries such as:
- What is my purpose in life?
- How can I contribute meaningfully to others?
These questions can take a lifetime for some to fully comprehend. Similarly, the query about motivation often masquerades as an easy one, yet it holds significant weight in our lives.
You might think that asking ten different people this question would take just a few moments. Surprisingly, many will respond quickly with answers like:
- My best friend inspires me.
- My gym instructor is my motivation.
- A motivational speech really gets me going.
- Money drives me.
But are these truly the right answers? While not entirely incorrect, they certainly miss the mark.
Section 1.1: The Nature of True Motivation
If these answers are merely surface-level, what does genuine motivation look like? The answer lies in the definition of motivation itself. According to Wikipedia, motivation is an internal state that drives individuals to pursue goal-oriented behavior.
The pivotal term here is "internal."
This is crucial to understand—real motivation originates from within us, not from external sources.
After starting to write online, I initially quit despite seeing others thrive. I was aware that many were earning well and building their brands, yet I still stepped back. If external factors like money were truly motivating, why did I give up?
Even with the best motivational speeches, without that internal drive, lasting change is unlikely to occur.
Section 1.2: The Pitfall of External Motivation
We often mistakenly believe that external factors will sustain our motivation. This belief can stem from the temporary boosts we get from external influences, which can lead to disillusionment when those factors fade away.
Consider this: if you remove an external motivator, will you still feel compelled to act? Most likely, the answer is no.
After my writing hiatus, I observed others flourishing in the same space. This realization ignited an inner conviction—I was squandering an opportunity for success by not writing. It was my internal desire to change that prompted me to write daily.
The best part? This motivation is rooted in my own will, so even in the absence of external validation, I continue to persevere.
Chapter 2: Redefining Common Motivational Traps
The first video, "DEAR ENTREPRENEUR ... Let's be real! Success Motivation!", provides valuable insights for those on the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the need for self-driven motivation rather than relying solely on external influences.
The second video, "We Can't Be Everywhere at Once: Overcoming Adversity", focuses on resilience and the importance of internal strength when facing life's challenges.
Let’s address two common external motivators:
Money as Motivation
Avoid letting money be your sole driver. Instead, cultivate a desire for financial independence, which is an internal motivator. Money can be lost, but the desire for freedom will always propel you forward.
Inspiration from a Gym Instructor
Don't let your gym instructor be your only source of motivation. Focus on your own desire to improve your health or build strength. This way, even in their absence, you’ll remain committed to your goals.
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