For the millennial generation, motivation is going to be the foundation of not only how much we accomplish in life – but how much we enjoy the process of achieving along the way.
You know the feeling – that burning in your stomach, when you know you’re not only going to do it, but you’re going to do it better than anyone else has ever done it. It may be from a quote you just read, a movie you just watched or a song that you just heard. Chemically, it’s literally an adrenaline rush – your mind becomes so excited about the potential of what this motivation is going to bring in to your life, that your body literally beats in anticipation and excitement (more on this connection in a later post).
The problem with motivation is that it is always short lived and never lasts, at least at it’s initial state. This is life. Figuring out how to use that initial motivation to maintain your best game is the key to developing the quality of life you want to live.
Motivation comes in waves – one of my favorite leader’s in the field, Robin Sharma, describes the roller-coaster ride best with the following quote:
“Winners have two types of courage – the courage to act and the courage to endure – and they never quit regardless of the circumstances. Understanding that they are bigger than their circumstances is what gives them the courage to succeed.”
-Robin Sharma
Motivation is essential to kick starting a new habit (or quitting and old one). But if you don’t have that courage to act DAILY upon your new-found motivation it becomes just another ‘phase’ in your life.
New Hustle Truth: The millennial generation is used to having what they want, when they want it. Sustainable positive motivation towards an end result IS within reach – but it’s not easy to do. It takes dedication to your purpose, and the mindset to achieve. Here are my top 7 simple truth’s about motivation that I’ve come across in literature I have read.
1. What’s Your Underlying Objective?
Yea, this seems pretty simple – because it is. If you want to get motivated to make more money – figure out the reason why you want to make more money. If you’re motivated to get in better shape – ask yourself why do I want to get in better shape? By identifying you’re core reasons for wanting to maintain motivation you paint a clearer picture for your mind to get a hold of. Once you have this picture – claim it. Take a snap shot of yourself in the house of your dreams, in the perfect shape or as the successful individual you want to be. See it, breath it and be it – even if you know that you’re not even close to being there (see #3).
2. Identify Short Term Goals
I’m notorious for riding the motivational roller-coaster, and one of the best solutions that helped me was to set small, simple, daily – weekly – or monthly goals that are achievable. So instead of, “I’m gonna be a millionaire by 35″, its changed to – “I’m going to pay down $35 every two weeks to get rid of this outstanding debt”. You won’t get anywhere reaching for the stars without building a ladder to get to them. And write it down! On your computer or in a notebook, whatever works for you – just have it to look at and reflect upon regularly.
3. Lock In On The Outcome
Feeling that adrenaline rush of motivation is exhilarating. But what we’re missing is that it’s not the motivation that’s causing the effect – it’s the outcome of what that motivation will produce. If you’re familiar with the law of attraction (this will be another post for another time), you understand that what you think about you bring about. It’s not magic, it’s just how the we work. If we’re thinking positive, happy thoughts – we feel positive and happy. The New Hustle is locking in on your desired outcome – and letting nothing and no one get in your way of achieving this. This really comes in handy on those down days when you just don’t feel like being motivated and want to sulk in your miserable self pity (I’ve been there).
4. Absolutely, Positively, Let Go Of Your Past
No matter where you’ve been, what you’ve done or haven’t done and how many times you’ve tried – you must learn to let go of the past. This was really hard for me, because how do you not think of all the times you’ve tried and failed? Look at your failures as strengthening of your character. Bob Proctor, an advocate of the law of attraction, states that there is a reason for every failure – and it must be learned – and until it is learned, we will not change. So basically, you fail because you have to – and until you decide to right whatever wrong is causing you to keep failing, you won’t succeed. Fail, learn and rise above the circumstance. Lock in on your outcome, and never doubt yourself – this is essential to maintaining motivation.
5. Think Only Positive Thoughts
Another huge struggle for me. Controlling my thoughts felt like trying to control an unchained rabies infested 150lb pit-bull that was running at me. This is gradual, but it can be done. The New Hustle IS positivity. Along with forgetting and letting go of the past (via learning from our mistakes), you must decide that you will only think positive thoughts – especially in the motivation arena. If you even catch your self-talk (you know how you talk to yourself in your mind?) doubting, or fearing or worrying about what might happen if I do this or don’t do this – stop what you’re doing and get your swag back (see #6).
6. Maintain Swagger
Ah swagger – gotta love the millennial generation. Swagger, simply stated, is that persona we all have when we’re at our best game. This is what you see when the next best hip hop artists is walking the red carpet – the athlete that refuses to loose – or the President who exudes power and confidence. You’ve felt it, you’ve been there. Wake up every morning and, as the song puts it, ‘Get your swag on’. Literally, whatever it takes – put it on. Make it like you’re favorite shirt. Maintain confidence in your purpose, dedication to your improvement and be that person everyone wants to emulate. This is a vital piece of The New Hustle and is required for lasting improvement and overall life satisfaction. Tony Robbin’s calls this ’state-management’. Look in the mirror and sneer, pump your chest, whatever it takes to get you to that emotional state – no matter how stupid it may seem, it works.
7. Connect Yourself With Resources and Likeminded People
With the digital age upon us, there is no excuse for not researching excellent resources (see my soon to come post of free ebooks) and like-minded people who want to not only improve their own lives – but make a difference in the world. Maintaining motivation is much easier when people around you are trying to do the same thing. For some of you, this may not be possible. I was there too – my environment was anything but proactive at one time – but I was able to come out of it and learn from it and have begun friendships with people who truly make a positive difference in my day – everyday.
Lastly, don’t wait until the ‘perfect time’ to maintain your motivation. When you are motivated to do something – no matter how big or small – if it’s for your ultimate benefit – like Nike says, just do it. Or, like Jack Canfield says, in a much lighter tone:
“Remember, there is no perfect time for anything. There is only now. We encourage you with all of our hearts to begin your journey to greater levels of fulfillment and productivity now.”
-Jack Canfield