What Motivates You?

Well, it’s that time again.  Seems like everyone is focusing on evaluating the year gone by, the goals achieved or not and deciding on what will be the direction of one’s efforts in 2015.  There are plenty of studies to suggest that the likelihood of achieving goals is significantly increased when they are written down.  Then there’s on going reinforcement from reading them daily, keeping the list close by and reminding one’s self of one’s commitment.  The question becomes, “What are you willing to do to ensure achieving the goals you’ve identified?”

Now, I want to refer back to the title of my blog. What motivates you to honor your commitment to your goals?  Are you inspired by reward?  Are you motivated by fear?  Or, are you an individual that is self-motivated because ultimately you are accountable to yourself? Reward motivation can very well be a driving force for activity.  For example, if a certain goal is achieved, there is compensation.  Reach a desired weight and earn a spa day.  Achieve a quota at work that results in a new title or increased salary.  Kids are a great example of reward motivation.  Parents often provide rewards for good grades, great behavior or completed chores!  Children learn quickly that pleasing parents definitely has benefits!

Fear is another huge motivator.  This is particularly evident when it comes to one’s health.  People will say that unfavorable medical test results were the motivation needed to change one’s habits.  Fear in not getting something one desires can be the catalyst to do whatever is necessary.  Fear can play into every aspect of our lives – financial uncertainty, relationship struggles and potential job loss are examples.  Goals centered around on being more conscientious concerning savings, mending relationships or increasing one’s skills to be more valuable in the work environment are worthy goals as well.  Fear of loss is a great motivator. 

When one is self-motivated, the only accountability is to yourself.  You know the joy that simply comes from what you achieve, what you overcome and that you can count on – YOU.  You’re motivated by possibilities, by accomplishment and satisfaction.  There is no one or nothing that is determining what your success will be except what you choose.  Setting goals from a place of self-motivation offers the greatest chance of success. 

As you take a look at your 2015 goals, consider what motivates you!  As long as you’re trusting that you can achieve the results you want, that’s all that matters. You are in charge.  You get to decide.  Be confident.  Be consistent.  Be conscientious.  And feel proud of yourself for setting goals in the first place.  That, alone, sets you apart from all those individuals who don’t.  You are already headed to the winner’s circle.  Congratulations.

Where do you want to be in 5 years? Wherever that is, Your Learning Library can help you get there!