The Formula for Unstoppable Motivation: Purpose, Small Simple Steps, and Energy.
Motivation is a powerful force that drives us towards our goals and dreams. It's what propels us out of bed in the morning, inspires us to take action, and keeps us moving forward, even when faced with challenges. But have you ever wondered what the secret to unwavering motivation is? According to Jim Kwik, a renowned expert in memory improvement, motivation can be summed up as follows: "motivation = purpose + small simple steps + energy." He states that “motivation is the purpose you have for taking action”. Lets dive into this formula and explore how you can apply it to your life to cultivate lasting motivation.
First and foremost, it's crucial to understand that motivation is not a static state of being. It's not something you either have or don't have. Instead, motivation is a verb – it's an ongoing action that you must actively cultivate and engage in. This means that staying motivated requires continuous effort and commitment.
Purpose Trumps Difficulty: One of the key elements in the motivation formula is purpose. Your purpose is your "why" – it's the reason behind your actions and goals. Without a strong and meaningful purpose, it's easy to lose motivation when faced with challenges or obstacles. As a health & wellness coach, I work with clients to help them define and connect with their purpose & values. I ask powerful questions eliciting them to dig deep and discover what truly drives them to make positive changes in their lives.
Small Simple Steps: The second component of the motivation formula is small simple steps. Think of these as the breadcrumbs that lead you down the path of motivation. These bite-sized actions are manageable, achievable, and keep your motivational momentum going. When you break down your goals into smaller steps, they become less intimidating, and progress feels more attainable.
Energize Your Motivation: Finally, maintaining your energy levels is vital for sustaining motivation. Think of your energy as the fuel that powers your actions. Without sufficient energy, even the most compelling purpose can be difficult to pursue. Here are four key aspects to consider when it comes to boosting and sustaining your energy:
Sleep: Adequate sleep is the foundation of physical and mental well-being. Ensure you prioritize good sleep hygiene to recharge your energy reserves.
Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet, and prioritizing quality whole foods, provides the necessary nutrients for sustained energy levels. Nutritional awareness is essential to your wellness journey.
Stress Management: Chronic stress can drain your energy and motivation, not to mention wreak havoc on your bodies systems. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, breath work, or relaxation exercises.
Exercise: Regular physical activity not only boosts energy but also releases endorphins, which contribute to a positive mindset. Help your clients find enjoyable ways to stay active.
Remember, an object in motion stays in motion. By taking consistent, small steps toward your goals, you keep the momentum alive. Set realistic, specific, and measurable goals, and then follow a roadmap with these small, actionable steps.
Motivation is not a magical state that some people possess while others don't. It's a dynamic process that can be cultivated and sustained by following the formula: motivation = purpose + small simple steps + energy. And while this blog post is a simplification of what can feel like an overwhelming lifestyle adaptation, hopefully it helps you to realize that in the end you have the power to sustain motivation for yourself.
As health & wellness coach, I have the opportunity to collaborate with clients by helping them discover their purpose, recognize their strengths and take consistent, small steps towards their goals. With this formula in mind, you can unlock the key to unstoppable motivation and achieve lasting success in your wellness journey.
Listen to more about what Jim Kwik has to say on Motivation in this podcast> Understanding What Drives You