Measuring Motivation

When it comes to measuring motivation to achieve our goals there are some of us who just naturally have it. Then there are others who struggle to locate and embrace it. I find there are days I wonder where my motivation is. On these days I question if there is a way to measure my motivation levels, in comparison to others days; outside of a knowing I feel more or less motivated. We know that motivation is the fuel that supports people to take actions necessary for them to achieve their goals.  When people have a strong desire to take action, take chances, think outside the box, or blaze their own path. We recognize they have a strong sense of being motivated.

Inner Inspiration

When an individual has lesser inner desire to take action where they make little or no progress in their life then we know these people as slackers or lacking motivation.

Outside of these two perspectives, is there another way to learn how to measure motivation? Simply put … yes. We do this by recognizing the action steps a motivated individual takes versus those lacking motivation to reach their goals.

We also know a goal has no power on its own. But combining passion and strong desire of the individual seeking to achieve the goal. Then you can recognize the strength of the motivation and the power behind it.

Clarity

The clearer a goal and the greater the desire to achieve it, then the greater the person’s motivation will be. With a greater sense of motivation an individual finds an increased level of courage to take greater risks. To step outside of their comfort zone and the perseverance to continue even when things are not going as planned. Observers will question why the individual continues down a path that seems to be leading them nowhere. But the individual sees the goal in their sights and only see opportunities before them.

When an individual sets a goal for themselves but does not clearly define it. They will often come up against even the smallest challenge, taking them off course and possibly having them give up. These individuals lack the inner strength to embrace the risks necessary. As a result become unmotivated to continue striving for goals that take them out of their comfort zones.

Motivation Review

Let’s take a quick review and see how we are measuring motivation levels right now. Think of a goal you would like to establish for yourself. Put a mental check mark beside the statements that are true for you at this time:

• Is the goal clearly defined?
• Do I know without question when I’ve arrived or completed the goal?
• Are there markers or guide posts along the way for me to know that I am on course to achieving the goal?
• Have I shared my goal with anyone else in my life either personally or professionally?
• When I think of the attaining the goal it feels comfortable to me – like an old well worn sweater?
• Is there anything that I may lose if I don’t achieve the goal?
• Am I okay with not seeing a return on my investment – both time and money if I don’t achieve the goal?
• When I hit a road bump do I stop taking steps necessary to achieve my goal?
• Is my stress level higher than before embarking on the path towards my goals?
• Has my sleep pattern been disrupted due to trying to achieve my goal?

How many did you answer yes to? Greater than 5? If you answer yes to 5 or more, than you are definitely motivated to achieving your goal. What about yes to 3 – 5 of the questions, then you are moderately motivated. If you answer yes to less than 3 then you may want to reconsider the goal. Get clear on how this goal supports your overall journey in life. Now, please know there are a few questions that if you have motivation, you will actually respond no to. Use these few questions to help bring clarity to your goal. This will allow you to better define it and outline your plan for achievement.

Fuel Your Incentive

When we witness someone doing everything within their power to attain their goals, but then face challenges without hesitation; we know we are looking at someone with an inspiration and desire to succeed. As we stated in the beginning, motivation is the fuel which empowers people to take action. If people are not in action then they are not motivated enough. If you seem to lacking motivation; it is a great idea to clearly redefine the goals you would like to reach.

Motivation comes from your inner desir. Your inner desire comes from knowing clearly and truthfully what you want to achieve. If you are unsure of what you want, then it is time for you to be measuring motivation. It is worth the time to define and articulate clearly what it is you do want. As you know, people who have a high level of motivation are those who achieve the greatest success.