Sitting at a table with a cup of coffee and a croissant, I looked around at the type of people that surrounded me. Most were dressed up and seemed to be engaged in quiet, yet intense conversation. I had signed up for the meeting of business people and professionals that the church was hosting. As I listened to they speaker share his story, I found I was writing like crazy. Was it the coffee? Was it this man’s inspirational story? I looked down at my yellow legal pad and realized my notes had very little to do with the content, but they were thoughts and ideas that were coming to me about life and ministry. I found myself inspired in that environment.
For years I’ve enjoyed thinking about my vision and setting goals. It’s been a part of my life since I was in high school. Sometimes I forget about how much those topics inspire me and I go a long time without thinking of my vision. Sometimes, though, I set goals but have a hard time finding the motivation to follow through with them.
I want to share with you four types of motivation that might help you gain momentum on achieving your goals. All four really look at one question: Why?
1. Intrinsic motivation. For me, this is the most important. Is this something God has called me to do? I value God’s will and plan for my life, and I want to do all I can to achieve that. For example, I’m writing daily for these 40 days because I believe God has called me to write.
2. Extrinsic motivation. Though this isn’t the “ultimate” motivating factor, it can help. Why will this benefit other people? I’m very encouraged by people who leave comments on my blog posts. It helps me know that people are interested in what I have to say.
3. Growth. One of the most frustrating places for “artists” of any sort is the gap between how they see their potential and how they see their current work. I feel this with almost every post I write! I know that I have potential to be a better writer than I am, but I recognize that any process is improved with practice.
4. Achievement. Sometimes, the desire to complete something is enough of a motivation in itself. For me, this 40-day challenge keeps me writing. I don’t want to give up. Having a goal as specific as this keeps me going.
What are you feeling like you should be doing, but just haven’t gained the momentum or motivation to get going on it?