…When you just ain’t feeling it

Yesterday, on Facebook, I asked the question, “How do you motivate yourself when you just AIN’T feeling motivated?” As expected, there were a variety of responses since the theory of motivation as there is not a one size fits all definition.

Since everyone does not view motivation in the same way, let’s start with the basics to align our thoughts on the topic.

What is Motivation?

“Motivation is the word derived from the word ‘motive’ which means needs, desires, wants or drives within the individuals.” It is the process of stimulating people to actions to accomplish the goals.”

Towards the end, you will see I noted each of the Facebook responses as I am sure at least one of them will INSPIRE you. My goal was to highlight one or two responses, but they were all so enlightening so I noted them all. Thank you to all who responded to my Facebook post.

Types of Motivation

The two types of motivation that stand out are, Intrinsic and Extrinsic motivation.
“Intrinsic Motivation refers to behavior that is driven by internal rewards. In other words, the motivation to engage in a behavior arises from within the individual because it is intrinsically rewarding.” On the other side of that coin,
“Extrinsic motivation refers to behavior that is driven by external rewards such as money, fame, grades, and praise. This type of motivation arises from outside the individual, as opposed to intrinsic motivation, which originates inside of the individual.”

Who Really Cares About Being Motivated or the Notion of Motivation?

Thanks for asking. I care and many of you reading this probably care especially if you are a working parent, an educator needing to motivate yourself and your students, a student, or if you are a business owner, etc. Motivation and motivators are tied into much of what we do in our personal and professional lives, therefore, the topic of motivation is one to discuss long before we get to that dreadful, yet realistic, place of feeling the LACK of motivation. Can I get an AMEN?

Are You Reading and Asking Yourself What is YOUR Motivation?

Maybe you already know what puts PEP in your STEP. (Yes, I still say pep in your step.) Maybe you are like the rapper Cardi B who expresses in her music that she is “all about the bag.” The “bag” is another way of saying she is chasing the money. Get it yet? Like money bag. Some are motivated by the desire for money, success, recognition, or simply by the satisfaction from enjoying what they do.

List Self-Motivated on Your Resume?

Although I have never been a hiring manager, I would think listing self-motivation on your resume would be ideal. In my opinion, when someone says they are self-motivated, that lets me know that person is goal-oriented, and doesn’t need to be nudged to stay on task. In fact, to become an efficient leader, you must be self-motivated.”

Tips to Become (and Stay) Motivated

• Create a plan
• Set goals
• Celebrate your achievements
• Adopt the “take one bite of the apple at a time” concept
• Get a support or accountability group
• Keep the “big picture” in mind
• Remember your WHY. The reason WHY you started your business or went back to school

Facebook Response to the question,” How do you motivate yourself when you just AIN’T feeling it.”

I had to include a few of the many Facebook responses from yesterday’s post of people sharing how they motivate themselves. May these responses encourage you. See below…

“I thought to myself, will this serve me to stay in this bed or does it better me to get going [to the gym].” ~ Amanda

“Let Go and Let God” ~ Angel

“Call Your [Life/Business] Coach” ~ Darla

“Think of my goals that I have set personally…” ~ Armilla

“Get up and pray for God to renew my mindset.” ~ Chanelle

“I just do it despite how I feel until it becomes clockwork” ~ Tasha

“I say affirmations, journal or put on music…” ~ La Shay

“I put on praise and worship” ~ Alicia

“Drive through impoverished communities” ~ Dr. Arrickia

“Play music as loud as I can” ~ Cookie

“Keep repeating positive thoughts and affirmations…” ~ Vivien

“Pray” ~ Azure

“…at the end of the day, it really isn’t about you, it’s about the other persons that need you to THRIVE & WIN” ~ Sheya

In closing, I ask you WHAT IS YOUR MOTIVATION? I would love to get your feedback and comments.

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