How to inspire yourself to take action

Lets talk about motivation. 

I've been watching Simon Sinek content on YouTube this week - he's got a great way of explaining motivation.

He is interested in this question: how do normal people achieve great things?

Most people have goals/ things that they want. They also know (thank you google) the sort of actions required to achieve that goal. But they don't always do the work. Why is that?

Simon's view is that we all need a sense of purpose or belief, a 'reason why' we want to achieve the goal. 

The science behind this is that when you're talking about a 'why' you're talking to the 'feeling' part of your brain, the limbic system. And check this - the limbic system is accountable for decision making. 

This is the reason your goal to get to the gym 3 times a week is difficult if you don't 'feel' like it. Your limbic system is acting on the most powerful feeling, which in this case is that you really don't want to go!

Simon is making the point that you need to peel back the layers to understand why you want to do something. If you have a compelling why, which creates a significant emotional feeling when you think of it, you've got access to a great store of motivation.

The feeling and connection to why you're doing it needs to be more powerful than the current moment temptation to do nothing.

So keep asking yourself why until you get to a strong enough core feeling that drives you to take action. Let me know how you get on uncovering the 'why' in relation to one of your goals.



P.S. Motivation can be hard. Make it easier by uncovering a powerful reason 'why' you really want something. Can't dial up a strong emotion? Ditch that goal and work on one you want more.