A couple years back a friend asked why I’d never done a bodybuilding show despite having a lean muscular physique. My main reasoning at the time was because I didn’t want to stick to the strict dieting required for a show prep. Eventually I gave in and reluctantly committed to a strict 3-month meal prep for a bodybuilding show. It wasn’t until this moment that I learned the difference between being motivated and having true personal desire for something.
The next three months where personal living hell.
During the next three months I struggled with what I call ‘passive motivation’. Passive motivation is when we do things “just because” which offer little-to-no value to us.
So despite still taking 2nd in my class and 3rd place overall, I couldn’t help but wonder how much better I could’ve done had this competition had any true value for me. This experience ultimately lead me to the simple conclusion that
We thrive when things are valuable to us – like staying healthy for family and friends.
So here’s the deal: If your reason for going to the gym is simply because you’re “supposed to” then it’s not very likely that you’ll stick with it in the long run. Because while it’s important to develop gym consistently, it’s equally important to recognize the value that something brings you.
Try asking yourself: “Which parts of health and exercise bring me value?“ Once you can clearly answer this question you’ll start developing what I call “Personal Desire” (ie. true motivation). Moreover, your personal desires should complement those goals which are meaningful to you.
For instance:
GOAL: I want to get into better shape
Personal Desire: To look my very best for my spouse or significant other
GOAL: I want to lose weight
Personal Desire: To fit into that cute summer outfit and feel better about myself overall
GOAL: I want to exercise consistently after work
Personal Desire: To clear my head of any work-related stress before going home
As you complement your goals with personal desires you equip yourself for long-term success!
DAILY FIT BOOST CHALLENGE: Write out your exercise goals along with your personal desire. As you go through each day, make a conscious effort to shift your focus from your goal to your personal desire!
Related Video: “How to Become Motivated”
Key Takeaways:
- Passive motivation is another form of just “going through the motions”
- Motivation can be defined as “personal desire”
- Make a conscious effort to shift your focus from your goal to your personal desire
