MOTIVATION FIRST REQUIRES ACTION...

This week, I want to talk about how motivation first requires action . Like many people, I genuinely used to believe that motivation was needed first before taking action. But I’ve come to realise over time that it’s actually usually the other way around - motivation kicks in after taking action! 

It’s really empowering knowing this, as you then realise that, when motivation feels elusive, or not in your control, taking action always remains within your control. After taking initial steps, they build your confidence and, as you start seeing progress, that progress then becomes its own motivation for you.

The important thing therefore is just starting something, even if you do not feel fully ready to do it as, once you begin doing something, your motivation for doing it will normally follow, which then provides you with more momentum to keep going. It is self-perpetuating and circular!

Starting to take action about something, even if just in a small way, lights the motivational fire that you often wait for. It’s like a cycle, isn’t it; your action to do something leads to your motivation for doing it, which in turn fuels and propels you to more action. 

Here are some examples:

- People often cannot muster motivation for exercise, even though they know they should be more active, so they make excuses to themselves and others. But just putting on trainers and going for a short walk or run, motivates them to keep going every day, or to just do more.
- Starting to read a new book sometimes feels a bit daunting, especially if a long one. But reading just one page usually sparks your interest and curiosity, providing you with the motivation to keep turning pages.
- Many people refrain from learning a musical instrument or new language, but practising simple things routinely on a daily basis usually ignites motivation for them to eventually play full songs, or to try conversing with others.

But, whilst action builds momentum, motivation is still a strong foundation, making actions better. Motivation also fuels determination, even if action seems daunting. People driven by internal drive can also frequently find motivation from within themselves, which propels them forward, without needing an external push to start something. 

So, this week, remember that motivation usually follows action and, even taking small steps sparks motivation, fueling more action. Next time you’re waiting for motivation to strike before doing something, try flipping the script and start by just taking a simple step forward. Trust me, motivation will catch you up!