Motivation of others is a topic that comes up a lot lately. Most of the time it is managers or owners searching for a way to motivate others. I keep coming back to the realization that motivation might be more internal that external. You know, it’s probably not realistic to think that one human being can really “motivate” another. It comes from the inside.
However, inspiration is something different. I looked up the word inspire and found the following: Exalting influence, to fill or affect with a specific feeling or thought, to influence or impel. It makes more sense to me that we might “inspire” rather than motivate others; and that could be for good or bad!
I’ve thought about this all week and finally decided that there are 3 very powerful messages in my own life that have influenced me; and I’m motivated to share them with you. I’m also curious as to what inspires YOU. Please take a moment and share some of the things that you know have had great influence in your life.
1. Zig Ziglar’s belief that “when you help enough other people get what they want then you’ll have what you want” has been a driving force in my life. Our core belief at TrainerTainment is that, “We help others.”
2. Ralph Waldo Emerson: I’m an English major and one of my favorite works is written by Emerson. This message titled Success hangs in my house. I hope you are inspired by Emerson’s beautiful portrayal of success…
“To laugh often and love much; to win the respect of intelligent persons and the affection of children; to earn the approbation of honest citizens and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to give of one’s self; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to have played and laughed with enthusiasm and sung with exultation; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived—this is to have succeeded.”
3. The Psalmist-David: The entire chapter of Psalms 139 is very inspirational on many levels. Through the years when I struggle with my weight or have moments of doubt verse 14 in particular reminds me that there is great purpose given to each of us. There are no accidents. And when it comes to “self-esteem” it’s encouraging to know that great care was taken in how we were made. David writes:
“I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.”
So when I consider success, self-esteem, and purpose in my own life, these 3 thoughts have become strong words that I believe have inspired and motivated me on a daily basis.
I hope you are having a great week and are looking forward to an even greater weekend. For all of my East Coast friends, I look forward to seeing you in a couple of days.
