Stop chasing motivation
Motivation is a rush. It’s that jolt you feel at the start of a new goal - the fresh notebook, the gym membership, the spark of an idea.
But how long does it last?
That’s the problem.
Motivation fades. It isn’t dependable. It shows up late and disappears early. And if you’re waiting for it to drive your progress, you’re stuck.
Here’s what people get wrong:
The myth: Motivation drives success
We’re told that highly successful people are always motivated. That they leap out of bed full of drive, power through tasks, and stay hyped up day after day.
But it’s a myth. Even the best performers struggle with energy dips, doubt, and the temptation to give up. What separates them isn’t constant motivation.
It’s what they do when motivation isn’t there.
I used to think I needed to feel inspired to take action. That I had to be in the right mood, in the right headspace. But I was wrong.
The truth: Systems create progress
What actually works is building systems. Systems don’t rely on your mood. They run on structure, repetition, and simplicity.
When you don’t feel like it, the system does. When you’re tired, the system still ticks forward.
This isn’t cold or robotic. It’s the warmest, kindest way to show up for yourself. Because you’re not leaving your success up to chance anymore.
Here’s how to apply it
1. Build a morning trigger
Start the day with a small habit that signals "go." A journal, a short walk, five minutes of silence. Make it your switch.
2. Set a “Minimum Viable Win”
Choose a task so small you can do it tired, distracted, or unmotivated. The key is to keep moving, not to move big.
3. Use time, not mood, to decide
Set fixed work times. Don’t ask, "Do I feel like it?" Ask, "Is it 10am? Then I start."
4. Design a simple tracking system
Mark Xs on a calendar. Use a visual tracker. Celebrate streaks. Your brain loves visible proof.
5. Reflect weekly, adjust lightly
Every Sunday, check your system. What worked? What clogged? Adjust without judgment.
6. Anchor it to a bigger why
Tie your routine to what matters. A relationship, a purpose, a legacy. Let that pull you when you want to stop.
Motivation is a feeling. Systems are a strategy
You don’t need to feel highly motivated to begin – but once you take that first step, motivation often follows.
Every consistent action you take strengthens your identity. You become someone who follows through.
Stop trying to get motivated. Start building what works.
Want more?
The Art of Setting Goals is packed with tools that don’t just inspire you - they change you.