Motivation follows Action
Often, we find ourselves trapped in a cycle of waiting for motivation to strike. It's a common scenario: feeling inspired after listening to a podcast or reading a book, only to soon return to old habits as the initial spark fades. This common experience raises a pivotal question: what really propels us into action?
The Paradox of Motivation: Action Needs to Come First
The journey towards achieving any goal – be it professional success, physical fitness, or personal discipline – demands dedication to tasks that might be daunting or mundane. We frequently delay starting, hoping for a burst of motivation. However, my own experiences and observations have led to a crucial understanding: motivation follows action, not the other way around.
Take the goal of improving fitness as an example. The road to fitness is filled with challenging choices, from resisting unhealthy food to embracing tough workouts. The initial step is always the hardest. Yet, once we start – whether it's running, swimming, or lifting weights – the earlier resistance fades away. The act of starting triggers a sense of pride and forward progress and an escalating cycle of motivation. It's the momentum generated by this cycle that becomes unstoppable.
Practical Strategies: Leveraging Small Beginnings
To harness this principle, I employ a straightforward tactic: when procrastination strikes, I commit to just five minutes of the intended task. Surprisingly, these five minutes often shatter the barrier of inaction, converting reluctance into proactive engagement. This insight applies to both positive and negative habits. Just as we effortlessly fall into habits like overusing social media due to their instant rewards, recognizing this pattern can guide us towards more beneficial habits.
The Power of Daily Choices
Each decision we make is a step towards the person we aspire to be. James Clear, in his book "Atomic Habits," aptly notes that every action is a vote for the type of person we want to become. Consistency in these actions builds our new identity. This perspective shifts the focus from waiting for motivation to taking deliberate actions that align with our goals.
Scientific and Philosophical Support
This concept isn't just anecdotal; it's backed by science and wisdom. Studies suggest it takes about 66 days for a habit to become ingrained. William James, a renowned psychologist, emphasized the indispensable role of action: "Action may not always bring happiness, but there is no happiness without action." This synergy between action and habit formation is fundamental to personal development.
Conclusion: The Transformative Power of Taking Action
In essence, motivation is a product of continuous action, not its precursor. The real magic lies in overcoming the inertia of the initial step. Once this hurdle is crossed, each subsequent action propels us further, much like a row of falling dominos. This process transforms 'I wish' into 'I did', underscoring the significance of embracing the journey of action, one small step at a time. By doing so, we harness the power of action to shape ourselves into the achievers we strive to be.
Five Facets of Health: Week 34
If you're new to the 5 Facets of Health, learn more here. Avoid trying to implement everything at once! These suggestions are meant to spark ideas. To build healthy habits, focus on one or two aspects over the next week.
Physical Health
Consistency in physical activity often trumps intensity or duration, especially when you're building an exercise habit. If a long gym session isn’t possible on a given day, you can still get in shorter activities like 20 pushups or a 10-minute neighborhood walk. The key is to do something daily, gradually increasing intensity and duration as you are able.
“Small disciplines repeated with consistency every day lead to great achievements gained slowly over time.”
— John C. Maxwell
Action: Set a daily reminder to engage in a brief physical activity, such as a short walk, stretching, or a set of body-weight exercises.
Mental Health
Sleep is critical to having good mental health. Prioritize and protect your sleep at all costs. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep a night.
“The best bridge between despair and hope is a good night’s sleep.”
— E. Joseph Cossman
Action: Establish a bedtime routine that promotes good sleep hygiene, like turning off electronic devices an hour before bed and creating a comfortable, dark sleeping environment.
Emotional/Social Health
Turn your phone off or put it completely out of sight when having a conversation with others. It will help you focus and is a signal to whomever you’re with that they are the most important thing to you right now. As you do, you’ll notice the quality of your relationships and the quality of your conversations will increase.
“When someone asks for your time, and you put your phone away to talk to them... that's leadership.”
— Simon Sinek
Action: Commit to a 'phone-free' hour daily, focusing solely on engaging with family or friends without digital distractions.
Spiritual Health
Make time to connect with the Divine daily. Whether it is through meditation, study, or prayer, finding time to seek direction from a Higher Power will improve your confidence and mental health.
"The prayer offered to God in the morning during your quiet time is the key that unlocks the door of the day."
— Adrian Rogers
Action: Dedicate a specific time each day for spiritual practices like meditation or prayer, even if it's just for a few minutes.
Financial Health
Achieving financial satisfaction often involves wanting less rather than having more. Mindfulness and living within your means can lead to greater financial independence and satisfaction.
“Satisfaction = What You Have / What You Want”
— Arthur Brooks
Action: Each week, identify one unnecessary expense you can eliminate or reduce. This practice will help you focus on what you truly need and value.