Motivation is a word that we throw around to explain why we do or don't do something.
We say we go to a seminars, read a book, watch a video, or work with a coach to get motivated - or that a particular speaker, trainer, or message is "motivating."
We read blog posts to get motivated.
But do we really?
We can and do become motivated, but first we have to become inspired.
Inspiration is the fuel that feeds the motivation furnance. That furnance drives our actions.
We might know intellectually or emotionally that we need to do a particular task or that we need to get started on some action. Knowing that we are charged with doing it, that we really do want to do something, that others are depending on our performanace, that our company is counting on us, or that the outcome of other events hinges on our contribution should be motivation enough for us to commence. Often, however, it isn't.
We need the inspiration to make the motivation or drive kick in.
Therefore, we should look to outside influences to positively inspire us to action - to trigger our motivation. We can't motivate each other because the act of actually taking the transmission out of park and putting it into drive is a personal, free-will decision and choice. We just need to be inspired to get us started oftentimes.
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For more information on my coaching and educational programs and services, visit my website stevehoffacker.com or go to my other blog homesalesinsights.com for additional sales tips, insights, and commentary. You can also listen to my free podcast messages at Steve Hoffacker's Happenings.
© Steve Hoffacker, 2009. All Rights Reserved.
Perhaps a different twist to *The Spirit Is Willing, But The Flesh Is Weak*!?
As Realtors we know that we must get moving in order to obtain that client; but sometimes it isn't the lack of inspiration or that we are not motivated, but the lack of training!
When stuck in the "I have always done it this way" mentality, or unable to put a new twist on an approach; having that different perspective delivered with a high spirit is just what the Doctor ordered to get back into the fray! I find the training delivered by a motivational speaker gives me the fuel I need to get back into the trenches when "things" are going haywire!
Steve, I find your posts to be informative, sometimes inspirational. I believe you have to motivate yourself! Does that make sense?
Steve - I really like that title. Motivation is either present or not. Never met a successful person who was not motivated to succeed.
One must have motivation in order to succeed in life. Thanks
Steve,
I do not read AR posts for motivation. I do it for entertainment and information.
Goodmorning Steve - nice to see you up and writing such a lovely post. I do believe passion and enthusiasum creates an exciting and rewarding life. I've been inspired by a lot of folks along the way and I'm sure I've done the same back for many as well.
AR is a great place to get 'it' all. Kind of a one stop shop!
Have a Fun weekend!
Banana :)
Steve - I'm a believer in self motivation. I also believe that time is wasting away, and you never know when tomorrow may be too late for the things you need or want to do.
I like Elean's comment.....it's the age old adage, coupled with a bit of truth.
Steve: I try to surround myself with folks that do motivate me to do better in my business, and be a better person in my personal life.
Hi Steve
I like Paul's reply; in the long run we have to motivate ourselves.
Good luck and success.
Lou Ludwig
Hi Steve:
I think motivation comes from many sources.
But you are right to a degree...
you need to be able to motivate yourself...in order to get motivated!
Eilean,
Glad that type of training works. If you understand it and embrace it, it will continue to work for you. :)
Steve
Paul,
Thanks. That is precisely my point. We are the only ones who can motivate us. :)
Steve
Gary,
Thank you. The point is that we can never look outside ourselves for anything but inspiration. :)
Steve
Harry,
We all have motivation - it just depends on how it is directed. :)
Steve
Steve,
Glad to hear that because nothing you read will motivate you - only inspire you to act in a certain way. :)
Steve
Banana,
Thanks. Got an early start yesterday to a very long day. Appreciate the comments. Enjoy your Sunday. :)
Steve
Larry,
All motivation comes from within - by definition (mine). Inspiration can spark our motivation. :)
Steve
Larry,
Thanks. We can utilize outside inspiration, but we have to put the car in gear ourselves. :)
Steve
Chris Ann,
Thanks. Just a bit of sematics here. Try to think of the people around you as inspiring you - you are the one who acts (on your own). :)
Steve
Lou,
Thanks. We are the only ones who can motivate ourselves. We always have a choice. :)
Steve
Toula,
I think we are just talking about a difference in terms, but I think motivation comes from within - inspiration comes from many directions. :)
Steve