Why Motivation is Overrated (and What Really Gets You Moving)

Motivation is like that initial spark that gets the engine running. It’s the rush of energy that makes you sign up for a new workout class, start a fresh project, or tackle a goal you’ve been eyeing. But here’s the thing—motivation is fleeting. It comes in waves, and if you rely solely on it to keep going, you’ll find yourself stuck on the shore more often than you’d like.

The Myth of Motivation

We’ve all been there, waiting for the perfect moment when we “feel” motivated to get started. The truth is, motivation is fickle. It’s that one friend who shows up when everything is fun and exciting but ghosts you when the going gets tough. And while it’s great for kicking things off, it’s not reliable for the long haul.

The Real Secret: Action, Results, Motivation

So, what’s the trick? The real magic happens when you flip the script and focus on action first. Here’s how it works:

1. Action: Instead of waiting for motivation to strike, just start. It doesn’t have to be perfect or pretty—just do something. Taking that first step, no matter how small, sets everything in motion.

2. Results: Once you take action, you start seeing results. These don’t have to be earth-shattering; even small wins count. Maybe you feel a little stronger after a workout, or you check off a task on your to-do list. Results build momentum.

3. Motivation: Now, here’s where motivation comes back into play. Seeing results fuels your motivation. It’s no longer about forcing yourself to get started; you’re driven by the progress you’re making.

Why This Works

This cycle of action leading to results, which in turn fuels motivation, creates a sustainable loop. Instead of relying on a random burst of inspiration, you’re building a habit that’s powered by progress. Every time you take action, you’re reinforcing the behavior, making it easier to keep going—even when motivation takes a day off.

The Power of Identity-Based Habits

To make this cycle even more powerful, consider focusing on identity-based habits. This means shifting your focus from what you want to achieve to who you want to become. Instead of saying, “I want to run a marathon,” think, “I’m a runner.” When your actions align with your identity, they become more natural and sustainable.

For example, imagine someone trying to quit smoking. If they’re offered a cigarette and they say, “No thanks, I’m trying to quit,” they’re still thinking of themselves as a smoker who’s struggling to stop. But if they respond with, “No, I don’t smoke,” they’ve already adopted the identity of a non-smoker. Which person do you think is more likely to successfully break the habit? The one who sees themselves as a non-smoker is more likely to succeed because their actions align with their new identity.

By viewing your habits as an expression of who you are, rather than just a means to an end, you create a deeper connection to your goals. Each time you take action, you reinforce this identity, making it easier to stay consistent. It’s not just about doing something because you feel motivated; it’s about doing it because it’s who you are.

Final Thoughts

Motivation is a great kickstarter, but it’s not the engine that keeps things running. Success in anything isn’t about once-in-a-while bursts of motivation; it’s the result of daily action. Transformations are often romanticized as big, transformative moments, but the reality is much more mundane. Real change comes from regular people building small habits over time and staying relentlessly committed to improving themselves daily.

So, the next time you’re waiting for that spark of motivation, remember: you don’t need it. Take action, get results, and watch as the motivation follows. Start now, and let the results speak for themselves.