Emeka Obia

Motivation comes from inside of you

Yes! I know what it feels like putting up your first blog post online. Believe me; I’ve had enough of that nervous ‘meal’ and all.

Would they really read this? Am I making sense? Are they gonna comment after reading this??? Trust me, these questions and more run through my mind over a million times. I had a full dose of self-taught positive thinking sermons before writing this. And I’ve come to realize that we’re what we think. So why not remain positive?

In this case, I choose to remain positive. Yes, you will read through, yes I’d make sense, and yes you’d comment! Life is a daring adventure or nothing. Like they say: “To make progress, you have to get started.” I have to share my thoughts to the World, right? It costs nothing, right? Then, why not? I have to talk!

I know you’re already thinking about my title and wondering what I really meant.

First, answer this: Are you hoping for some sort of motivation from me/anyone? Are you the type that sits on the internet all day searching for something or someone to motivate you? Well, I’m afraid you’re wasting your time. Wasting time wastes your life. I’m sure you know that. I mean, why would you want me/anyone to do that? Why? No way!!

However, the word motivation still remains relevant for many people today. Why? Because I still hear people (my friends too) say things like:

“I’m just not motivated.”

“I need someone to keep me motivated.”

“I start out strong and lose motivation.”

“I want a coach to keep me motivated.”

“I’m attending this conference/seminar/workshop/retreat to get motivated.”

Why, why, why do people keep looking to others to give them what they already have???? (Stand up).

Let’s take a look at what motivation is:

 

Motive is an impulse that causes a person to act. Motivation is an internal process that makes a person move toward a goal. Motivation, like intelligence, can’t be directly observed. Instead, motivation can only be inferred by noting a person’s behaviour. So, what does that mean?

Motivation causes people to act.

Motivation is internal.

Motivation can’t be observed.

Motivation is only inferred because of what you DO.

Which one of those four listed above has anything to do with someone other than you? Absolutely none. No one can give you motivation. No one can keep you motivated.

Motivation comes from inside of you. It’s your internal drive that moves you to act on a goal that you say you want. If you aren’t motivated to act, it’s because your desire to reach your goal has not yet become bigger than your excuses, your comfort zone and your fears. Others can inspire you, teach you, help you, and encourage you (through workshops, seminars, coaching, formal education, and books). And that’s great…we all need that. But the will to ACT can only come from you.

So, when you need a dose of real motivation – don’t look to me or anyone. Get up. Find a mirror. Look at the reflection. That is all the motivation you need! Cheers! 

Emeka Obia is a youth speaker, currently a Corp Member in Akwa-Ibom state. He currently runs a youth

programme,Youth Inspire. Obia has a  B.Sc in Sociology/Anthropology. Twitter @Meksy01.