If you find yourself self declaring ‘Im unmotivated’ – there is a good chance that you are lying.
I am not saying that this stems from intentional malus or that it is even a conscious admission.
The reality is, it is easier to say ‘I’m just not motivated’ or ‘I just need to find some motivation’ than it is to admit:
I have no idea what I am actually trying to do!
The truth is lack of clarity will fill action faster than laziness ever could. In order for your motivation to actually kick in, your brain requires a picture of what your actual goal is.
Motivation Requires a Target
Think of motivation like your goal GPS – provide it a destination and it in turn provides you a route.
When you fail to provide yourself and therefore your brain with a clear goal (earn more money, get fit), the lack of a clear path causes your brain to stall.
Hence aiming for ‘somewhere over there’ ends up in lack of momentum and back to binge watching YouTube Ted Talks or Netflix.
Avoid the Vague Goal Trap
Here is exactly why vague goals will make you feel unmotivated:
- They are impossible to measure – How are you supposed to know when you are becoming more successful at ‘being healthier’.
- They are almost impossible to act on. ‘Start my side hustle’ sounds great and energising. Until you then realise you do not know what your first step is.
- The creation of decision fatigue. Each day, rather than setting out with a purpose (One Thing), you have to re-decide what you are working on. This is mentally exhausting.
Goal Clarity: The Cure for Fake “Unmotivation”
Reiteration – you do not need more motivation – you require sharper goals to start moving forward.
Formula for clarity – [Action Verb] + [Specific Outcome] + [Deadline]
Get in shape > Got to the gym 3 times per week for 3 months
See the difference
Instead of Start writing my book > Write 500 words per day, 5 days per week for the next 8 weeks.
Instead of Grow my business > Sign 2 new clients in the next 30 days.
Why This Actually Works
In setting specific goals, we trigger the brain’s reward system. Through every completed action, we get a dopamine hit and that in turn provides our momentum. Clarity of our goals allows us to remove decision making friction. You can now stop wasting energy on asking ‘What should I do?’
Now it is also easier for you to be able to track your progress as the clarity allows you to identify the wins, which fuels your persistence.
Vagueness to Clarity – It’s Time to Upgrade
Once you have your current goal, try applying these next 3 steps:
- Identify and name your finish line – Must have a tangible, observable end.
- Write down your first step. Think small, pick literally anything that you can actually start today.
- Select your deadline. The importance of a time frame is not to be missed. Otherwise you just have a day dream.
No More Pep Talks
Growth for you now comes from precision. Moaning that there is not enough wind to sail when your sails aren’t even up is not going to get you anywhere. Now we have identified the truth, that you are not broken,; just too vahue.
Time to get specific and I promise you, you are going to be shocked at how quickly that illusive “motivation” shows up.
Ready to Get Clear?
Download the free Momentum Starter Kit – two simple worksheets to get you moving in the right direction allowing you to:
- Identify your real starting point
- Define very clear and importantly actionable goals
- Kickstart your momentum in under 10 minutes
Smarter Goals. Sharper Mind. Fewer Excuses 