Motivation is potentially the most powerful variable in our lives as humans. It is the unseen force that urges us to act, accomplish, and meet challenges. Often people think of motivation as something other people give or something society rewards us with, but the real, deep-down, and lasting motivation comes from ourselves. Motivation in ourselves is important for growing as individuals, for successful living, and for generating meaning and value in our lives.In this article, we will look at what motivation in ourselves really is, what it means, the different forms of motivation, and what we can do in our lives every day to develop it.
The Meaning of Motivation In Ourselves
Motivation in ourselves is the internal decision or will to act. It is the inner desire that provides the determined push to pursue a dream, to continue pursuing hope, and to work hard when life presents obstacles or challenges. It is what rekindles the flame of passion after experiencing a setback. Self-motivation is independent of external rewards or motivation such as deadlines, goals or punishment. It arises from our internal values, beliefs, passions, and a sense of purpose.For instance, a student who studies to merely avoid being punished by their parents for not studying is an externally motivated student. But a student who studies because they love learning, and a passion for developing a future of their design is an internally motivated student. The distinction here is meaningful because externally motivated drives tend to only last as long as the excuse for the motivation lasts. Internally motivated drives may continue for a lifetime.
The Two Types of Motivation
Psychologists typically classify motivation into two main categories:
1.Intrinsic Motivation.
This stems from within. Intrinsic motivation is usually fueled by curiosity, a sense of passion, and joy and the feeling you get from doing something worthwhile.Example: Writing a book simply because you enjoy the thoughts you have, doing something productive, being creative, etc.
2.Extrinsic Motivation
This is externally similar to money, fame, rewards, or avoidance of consequences. Example: Working on the weekends or extra hours because of the chance of getting promoted or avoiding criticism.Both motivation styles are necessary for life, however intrinsic motivation is usually much more sustainable. It keeps us acting without the benefit of an extrinsic reward.
Why Motivation Within Ourselves Is Important
Without motivation, even the most talented people would ultimately fail to use their potential. Motivation is the energy that converts thought into action. Here are some reasons self-motivation is important in our lives:Gives Us Purpose and DirectionWhen we are motivated, we know what we want and why we want it. This perspective gives direction to our decisions and prevents us from spending time on things that do not matter.
Gives Us Purpose and DirectionWhen we are motivated, we know what we want and why we want it. This perspective gives direction to our decisions and prevents us from spending time on things that do not matter.Helps Build ResilienceLife comes with struggles, disappointments, and failure. Motivation is what gives us the ability to pick ourselves up after falling and keep moving forward through challenges.
Promotes Discipline and Regularity
Success is hardly ever about a large leap; it is about taking small consistent steps. Motivation can provide the discipline required to retain focus and commitment over time
Enhances Confidence and Self-Efficacy
When we are motivated, we begin to trust in our abilities. Each bit of success, however small, builds self-confidence and lifts our aspirations.
Encourages Growth and Contentment
Motivation encourages us to learn, to grow and reach our potential – while living our lives with more than just survival, but with enjoyment and meaning.
What Motivates Us Inside
Self-motivation does not just happen; it is influenced by a number of internal factors like:
Values:What we truly value oftentimes will motivate us to act. A person who values education will continue to be motivated to learn, even under difficult circumstances.
Passion and Interest:When we are doing things we are passionate about, motivation is easy to find.
Goals/Dreams – Having clear and inspiring goals or dreams is a road map, reminding us where we want to go.
Belief In Ourselves – What we believe, as confidence and self-worth, is important to staying motivated.
Vision of the Future – The clearer our vision of a desired future, the more drive we will have to work toward it.
How to Boost Motivation in Ourselves
Staying motivated is sometimes not easy. There are times when we can feel tired, despondent, or distracted. Fortunately, there are proven strategies to increase self-motivation:Set Specific and Concrete GoalsWhen we know what we are working to achieve, motivation increases. We are better off stating goals in clear terms, rather than something general, such as, “I want to be successful.” A better goal might be, “I want to open a business in two years.”
1.Break Goals Into Smaller Steps
Big goals often lead to feeling overwhelmed. However, if we break down big goals into smaller, manageable tasks, it can lead to a feeling of accomplishment as we check off small tasks that have a tendency to lead towards larger goals. Each small step creates forward momentum.
2.Nurture a Positive Attitude
Remember, positive thoughts are the best source of fuel for motivation! Displace negative self talk with positive affirming thoughts. Always focus on what you can do, not what you can’t do.
3.Develop a Routine and Discipline
Motivation works best in contrast to habits, so develop a daily routine to achieve your goals. Then, regardless of your motivation level, stick to it! Discipline will make progress, even if your feelings change.
4.Visualize Your Success
Try to imagine your success at each goal on a regular basis. Visualizing success helps confirm your ability to achieve it and keeps motivation near, especially when times get tougher.
6.Reward Yourself
Intrinsic motivation creates a powerful source of energy, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have some external inputs too! Every time you achieve a mini-success, take a moment to celebrate! This will boost your motivation and you will stay engaged!Keep it FreshCheck out books, videos or surround yourself with people who keep telling you to stay positive! Remember that inspiration is what brings back the internal force that might be slowly fading away.accomplishment
7.The Reality of Self-Motivation
Self-motivated people struggle just the same as all of us. Everyone has experienced procrastination, fear of failure, lack of mental or physical energy, and self-destructive people or environments message/influence on us. The one thing that we are all responsible for is to acknowledge that motivation will naturally rise and fall, but motivation can always rise again. Motivation can be put back on the priority list by going back to your purpose and practicing your discipline.
8.Self-Motivation in Practice
For instance, think about the story of Thomas Edison. He failed thousands of times prior to inventing the electric light bulb. If motivation depended only on external support; he would have quit after the first few failures. However, his internal motivation, passion for discovery, and belief in his vision drove him to take action and keep going until he was successful.This demonstrates that motivation in ourselves is what distinguishes temporary effort from a lasting accomplishment.
Conclusion
Motivation within ourselves is the basis of progress and success. It is what keeps you moving forward, even through the hard parts. While external incentives may spur us on, true and lasting motivation comes from within ourselves, through our values, passions, goals, purpose, and self-belief.We can develop our motivation by setting goals, committing to discipline, staying positive, and reconnecting with our own purpose. When we develop the motivation within us, we have the power to turn dreams into reality, overcome challenges, and live a fulfilling and meaningful life or life’s journey.Ultimately, we do not wait for motivation; we take action and create it within ourselves.
