The Value of Self-Motivation

LESSON 3.0

In the previous lesson we learned about strategies we can use to overcome roadblocks to maintaining self-motivation. Before we wrap this lesson up, let’s look at the last three reasons why some people loose self-motivation. 

Expecting too little of yourself : Disconnect effort from results 

At times, when the outcomes don't match our efforts, we might start to lower our self-expectations and what we believe we can achieve. For instance, if we constantly get lower grades, despite how hard we try, we could start to expect less from ourselves. Additionally, external influences can impact our self-expectations, particularly when others have low expectations of us. So it's so important to be mindful of how external expectations can impact our own.

The key is to disconnect our efforts from results. We want to work hard and do our best, simply because we want to constantly be improving and developing our skills for life.

Expecting too much of yourselves: Be realistic  

Often, external pressures and expectations drive us to set overly high expectations for ourselves. When others' expectations become our own, that's when the pressure mounts. 

Whether the pressure originates from within or from others, the key lies in being realistic. So, when thinking about the tasks ahead, ask yourself: 'What is truly achievable?' 'What is reasonable?' 'What can I realistically accomplish with the time and energy I have?' 

Pondering these queries will help you in discerning essential tasks from those you've added because you overestimated your time, energy, or capabilities. 

Cultivating modesty is essential. Living up to others' expectations can be daunting. Modesty will enable you to find satisfaction in what you genuinely can and do achieve, despite what others expect. 

Not being specific enough: Get clear on your goals. 

There are times when we are being pulled in multiple directions, leaving us uncertain about where to start. If this happens, it's crucial to gain clarity regarding our goals and objectives, and the kind of individual we aspire to become. Ultimately, the tasks that logically pave the way to our goals are what we should focus on. 

Lack of self-motivation frequently stems from a focus on the present. We tend to concentrate on the current moment. So, the solution involves thinking past the present and thinking about the future. 

Exercise:  

1) What five things do you want to achieve in the next year? 

2) What would you like to accomplish in the next five years? Write a list of your goals and what it will take to reach those goals. 

3) Finally write a list of the durable skills you’ll need to accomplish even some of your goals. 

Will you need patience? Determination and persistence? Will you need to be flexible? 

Fuel Your Self-Motivation 

Much like other durable skills, self-motivation originates from cultivating core traits: self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-appreciation. The deeper your understanding of your strengths, potential, and areas for growth, the more inclined you'll be to take action in various aspects of your life. 

Here are some key ways to aid you in nurturing your intrinsic drive to take action: 

  • Surround yourself with proactive individuals and achievers – those who are driven to excel, improve, and unleash their utmost potential.

  • Be kind and compassionate to yourself.

  • You tend to adopt the attitudes and mindsets of those you spend time with the most. Opt for those who are inherently self-motivated.

  • Give yourself incentives or rewards for accomplishing tasks.

  • Discovering your true purpose and embracing a passionate pursuit can cultivate a powerful habit of self-motivation.

Feel free to take this metacognitive survey to learn more about yourself. 

STEPS FOR CHANGE

  • In school, we become accustomed to relying on external motivation like our teacher, grades, or parents for motivation to complete tasks. Just being aware of that fact is a good first step. Determining if you have internal reasons for success is the next step to developing greater self-motivation. 

  • Identify any obstacles to self-motivation. If you find that one or more obstacle covered in this lesson applies to you, try the strategies to get past those barriers to self-motivation. 

  • If you feel a lack of self-motivation, extend your outlook. Think about and plan for life after school. Set goals that you want to reach in two years, five years, or even ten years out. Looking past your current situation can often provide greater fuel for intrinsic motivation. 

END OF SELF-MOTIVATION LESSON 3.0