Introduction

It’s a common myth that we need motivation before we start anything, yet experience tells us otherwise. Often, the courage to take the first step fires up our motivation. This blog will explore why taking bold action can spark sustained motivation.

The Misconception of Motivation

Many of us, especially creatives, wait for that perfect moment of inspiration, the muse, to kick-start our endeavors. It’s a romantic idea but not particularly practical. We often hear tales of waiting for the muse, but what if this waiting is actually what holds us back? I’ve been caught in this loop of waiting and procrastination, constantly battling to break free and engage with my projects. It’s a tricky cycle, but awareness and a proactive stance can crack it.

Action Before Motivation

Here’s the scoop: action tends to precede motivation. When I pushed myself to just do the things that made me happy—regardless of my motivational state—something amazing happened. After just ten minutes of writing, which often extended to thirty, I not only achieved something but also felt genuinely uplifted. The act of starting, no matter how small, can light the fire of motivation and keep it burning.

The Role of Courage

Courage plays a pivotal role here. It’s about stepping up without immediate motivation, embracing the unknown, and taking risks. In her book, ‘Get Good With Money’, Tiffany ‘The Budgetnista’ Aliche suggests visualizing and even naming your future self to foster a connection that makes taking that first step less daunting. Interestingly, studies show we often view our future selves like strangers, which explains our hesitance to act for their benefit. Creating empathy with our future self can diminish the need for courage, but it’s that initial brave act that gets us moving.

Conclusion

In conclusion, motivation isn’t waiting for us to get started; it follows after we take action. Rather than sitting around waiting for motivation to strike, it’s more effective to take the initiative. Action sparks motivation, not the other way around. So, let’s get moving and let our actions inspire our motivation!