Many of us wait for motivation to strike before taking action. We tell ourselves, “I’ll start exercising when I feel motivated” or “I’ll work on that project when I’m in the right mindset.” But what if we’ve got it backwards?
The Myth of Waiting for Motivation
Motivation is often seen as the driving force behind action. We imagine it as an internal spark that pushes us to get things done. However, motivation is unreliable – it fluctuates based on mood, energy levels, and external circumstances. If we rely on motivation alone, we might never get started.
Action Creates Motivation
The key to breaking this cycle is understanding that action often comes first. Psychologists refer to this as the “behavioural activation principal”, the idea that engaging in a behaviour can generate the very motivation we were waiting for.
Consider this: Have you ever forced yourself to go for a walk when you didn’t feel like it, only to find yourself feeling more energised and motivated afterward? That’s because action builds momentum.
The Power of Small Steps
If motivation isn’t required to start, what is? The answer is small, manageable actions. Instead of waiting for motivation, commit to a tiny step forward.
- Want to start exercising? Do just five minutes.
- Struggling to write a report? Write one sentence.
- Feeling stuck in a project? Set a five-minute timer and begin.
Once you start, you’re more likely to continue. Your brain shifts from resistance to engagement, and motivation often follows.
Changing the Way We Think About Motivation
Instead of asking, “How do I find motivation?” try asking, “What small action can I take right now?” When you take action, even without feeling motivated, you create a sense of accomplishment, reinforcing a cycle of productivity and motivation.
Final Thoughts
Motivation isn’t the prerequisite for action, action often generates motivation. By focusing on small, achievable steps, we build momentum and create the conditions for motivation to grow. So, instead of waiting to feel inspired, take the first step. The motivation will follow
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