There once was a young man who was coasting through life. He never bothered to study much at school. He enjoyed hanging out with his mates. In late teens he got a part-time job and saved a little to buy a 2nd hand car. His room at home was usually messy, and after a while his car was not exactly kept clean either. His personal appearance (clothes, grooming) was casual, even sloppy. However, over a month or so, a transformation occurred in his grooming, and he was seen wearing new and trendier clothes. It was obvious that he was wearing deodorant and getting his hair styled. What had brought about these sudden changes? You guessed it, he had fallen in love for the first time. There was a new motivation that stirred considerable internal motivation to make some improvements to his appearance. When this girl agreed to go out with him, his car was washed and cleaned inside and out. His room at home was still a bit messy, but even that began to change over time.
Internal or External Motivation
Motivation is either internal (intrinsic) or external (extrinsic – relying on someone else to deliver a reward or punishment, carrot or the stick). Only internal motivation works when no-one is watching. External motivation lasts a little while but often breeds resentment and fear and ultimately can make a person feel trapped or controlled. Internal motivation is what works long term. Internal motivation enables discipline. When motivation is strong enough, discipline can kick in. After a while discipline can set and create a new standard which then grows into a good habit that can make new and better ways sustainable.
The example of top athletes
It begins with a passion and then some encouragement from early successes. Some young athletes then decide to work on their fitness and develop their natural athletic prowess. They hire a coach, and this brings the kind of training and accountability they need to introduce disciplines that enable them to become better. Elite athletes have more than the external discipline a coach provides. They are willing to do the extra training when no one is watching. Their internal motivation is such that they develop a level of discipline that sets them apart. That discipline becomes a habit, and then a lifestyle.
The example of the health of older Australians
Recent research shows that at least 80% of our health outcomes in old age are within our control. Physical decline is not inevitable as we age. Lifestyle factors, such as alcohol, smoking, lack of exercise, poor diet and bad sleep habits can account for many of our health issues. Exercise, diet and establishing good sleep protocols will enable almost anyone to have a better and longer life. This is true even for those with a poor genetic history. Yet, most older people are not motivated to commit to regular disciplines of exercise, diet and sleep protocols until after they have some kind of health scare. Even then, they do it for a while and go back to a more relaxed approach. Many never become motivated enough to do anything about establishing good health disciplines. They accept their aches and pains and declining mobility as inevitable.
There is an indisputable link between motivation and the daily discipline that creates a successful life.
John Maxwell says,
“Successful people are simply those who are willing to do things unsuccessful people will not do”.
What motivation do you need to start to establish the daily discipline that will enable you to create a successful life?
If you need help to unlock your internal motivation to do what it takes to grow your business, reach out and book a free conversation with John. I assist business owners to become more knowledgeable about themselves and their business, so they can make more strategic decisions and ensure long-term success.
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