Motivation from Within

Ignoring the noise, and finding my voice

There are a lot of ideas out there about what success means and what it should look like at various stages of life. Whether it's a financial goal, a career milestone, a marital status or more, everyone has something to say about it.

Well, I've stopped listening. The only voice I listen to when it comes to this topic, is my own. I have motivation that goes deeper than any of the typical goals and milestones and any time I feel like I'm spinning too fast on the hamster wheel, I get off and get a little perspective.

Motivation from the past

Growing up, as a child, a teenager, and well into my twenties, I was cripplingly shy. I had zero confidence or self-esteem. When I think about what motivates me now, it's that girl who felt out of place in every situation. I am always focusing on being myself and being comfortable in that space because she never did.

Motivation from the present

I'm a mum of three little ones and as exhausting as that is, it also pushes me to do more every day. There's nothing like becoming a parent to make you want to succeed. I'm not motivated by the lifestyle I want them to have, but the values I'd like to instill in them. To name just a few;

Creativity and authenticity are important and valued.
Your career path may not be linear and that's ok.
Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard. 

Motivation from the future

I have this image in my head for years now and in it, I am standing with a cup of tea looking out the window at a beautiful view, from our own house, I'm wearing a soft knit jumper, and I'm about to start my day. I have an office in my house and I have help in the running of my business. There's nothing flashy or extravagant, and I've reached my goal. A calm, creative, sustainable future is my ultimate goal and I'm aiming for it all the time.

Call me old-fashioned

There's a small chance I'm already turning into my parents so call me old-fashioned but I'm also motivated by authenticity, slow paced living, meaningful and real interactions. Every time I'm thinking of a new project or product I ask myself, does this add value? Does it simplify life? If I bought this, would I use it to make life more pleasant and more meaningful? If the answer to any of those is yes, I'm on the right track.

Final thoughts

Some days motivation feels like a powerful engine, other days it's a quiet stream you can barely hear. Either way, it's worth remembering that when your motivation comes from within you instead of from outside influences, if you really listen you'll hear it, and even better, you'll feel it and it will feel right.