There are those who can self motivate and have that rare ability to actually consistently do so. They seem to find ways to move through difficulty and challenge and find inspiration from it. In fact, they are usually deeply fueled by their difficulties and use them to leap. This ability speaks volumes about ones personal brand.
Most people can not.
There is no real secret as to the billions of dollars made by others who sell motivation. It is actually a very predatory business.
“I think that inspiring others to believe in themselves, see the best in themselves and get into action is a gift and a privilege.”
We are responsible for our motivation, but a little help from the outside and others is welcomed. The power of love, music, art, poetry, nature and examples of human kindness are proven to inspire and motivate. Even the motivators and those that empower others need their muse.
What do you do and use to motivate yourself when you can’t self motivate? What message can that relay about you and your brand to others?
I love music, art, sports, writing, travel, accomplishment and people. They always move me.
I was asked to speak last year and my topic was “Be Bold and Make it a Bold Year”. In researching this, I came across the story of Erik Weihenmayer. He became the only blind man in history to reach the summits of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest on May 25, 2001. What really blew me away was how he changed the face and perception of what a blind person could do and he did it. I always think about his story and process and think about what he accomplished with his major handicap. Please check out his site.
I mean if he can summit the world’s highest peaks blind, I can surely get through my challenges and disappointments with my gift of sight. In fact, he made people think about using their sight differently, to look at things from different perspectives. There are so many ways to perceive and look at things isn’t there?
Here are 6 things that help me stay self motivated.
- Sharing passion and inspiration daily in as many ways and with as many people as possible.
- Stay in the day and don’t go too far out.
- Develop a commitment to your holistic well being by taking care of your physical, spiritual and emotional life.
- Seek out positive information and input early, late and often throughout the day.
- Surround yourself with people that support and encourage you.
- Clear away and clear out those detractors, toxics and distractors.
Here are some 2010 stories of triumph that we shouldn’t forget.
Being motivated through great or gray times is important to share. It’s that authenticity part of you and your brand that people really connect with!
Author:
Deborah Shane is an author, entrepreneur, radio host and expert. She is the leader of her business education and professional development company, Train with Shane, hosts a weekly business radio show, and writes for several national business, career and marketing blogs, and websites. Her book Career Transition-make the shift-the 5 steps to successful career reinvention comes out in early 2011. Connect with her on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Blogtalkradio at Deborah Shane, or visit www.deborahshane.com.
