Motivation is described by Wiki as: “The set of reasons that determine one to engage in a particular behavior.” To make sure we’re on the same page, let me just reiterate that I’m talking about self-motivation- intrinsic motivation- as opposed to having someone say: “Move your butt!” Now, what motivates you to achieve? Here are some common ones:

• Wealth
• Physically Fit
• Dream Job
• Relationship
• To Receive an Award / Title

What makes you go to the gym early in the morning, or after a long day at the office? Could it be the music you listen to? For me, I find that certain up-beat songs and the lyrics can be very motivating when at the gym or out for a run- to help sprint just a bit faster, or to go for those extra few reps. 

I also find that quotes can be very inspiring. Here are some of my favourites:

• The best way to predict your future is to create it
• In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity
• Don’t look down on anyone unless you’re helping them up
• No one can make you inferior without your consent
• Goals determine what you are going to be
• Choice, not chance determines ones destiny
• Only those who fail greatly can ever achieve greatly
• Learn how to be happy with what you have while you pursue what you want
• We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence then, is not an act, but a habit

Then there’s that whole other topic that some people believe in and some do not. I’m talking about mind power/visualization. I’ve read several books on this and have used a lot of the practices myself. When I’m in a routine of visualizing, I certainly notice the difference. I feel better, I see more results, and I find more opportunities. When I’m not visualizing, I absorb all of the negative energy that other people give off, and when bad things happen and I worry about it, more bad things happen. I find that when I am in a positive frame of mind, the people around me tend to be too. It’s like they say: “Smiles are contagious.” I believe this to be absolutely true, but the same goes for the reverse. When I- or someone else- is in a bad mood, it spreads like an epidemic. 

I also have a vision board. As I just wrote that, I felt a little self-conscious: I’m exposing myself somewhat here and some of my friends (*ahem* ADAM) have made fun of me for my vision board and the fact that I have read/watched The Secret, but whatever, it works for me and makes me happy so that’s all that’s important.  But really, all a vision board is, is a collage of things you want to achieve/accomplish: the life you’d like to see yourself living. It can be made up of words, magazine clippings, pictures, or a combination of all of the above. There are no rules- it’s for you and no one else. 

This is just my take on all of this, and I’m sure some of you think it’s all a bunch of BS, which is fine, but some of you may agree or want to try something new since your new year’s resolutions might have gone out the window.

 Loading ...

Related Stories:

• A Little Sunshine!
• ENOUGH! Rally for Richard Dowrey Part II
• Karma Cent My Way?