What is Motivation and How Does It Really Affect Us?

In recent years, the concept of motivation has become an element of popular culture. On social media platforms, YouTube and blogs, we often come across motivational content filled with life stories of successful people.

But is the motivation offered by this content real? More importantly, how does motivation really work and how does it affect us?

DEFINITION AND TYPES OF MOTIVATION

Motivation, in simple terms, is the internal or external driving force we feel to achieve a goal.

However, there are two main types of this concept:

• Intrinsic Motivation: The desire to do something just because you like it, are curious about it, or find it meaningful.

  For example, learning to play an instrument or painting a picture.

  
  

• Extrinsic Motivation: When you are motivated by external factors such as achievement, reward or social acceptance.

  For example, studying to pass an exam or entering competitions to win a prize.

MISLEADING ASPECTS OF POPULAR MOTIVATIONAL CONTENT

Most motivational content is usually filled with “from zero to the top” stories. In these stories, a person has overcome almost impossible circumstances and achieved incredible success.

1. Facts are Distorted: Success stories often exaggerate the challenges and ignore the coincidences or environmental factors behind the success. This can create a sense of “why can't I achieve such success?” in the audience.

2. Short Term Impact: These stories often provide momentary energy but not lasting motivation. Because everyone's life and struggles are different.

3. Pressure and Comparison: This type of content can cause people to constantly compare themselves to others and can create stress instead of motivation.

HIDDEN TRUTHS IN MOTIVATION STORIES

There is a truth that is often left untold in motivational stories:

People are often not alone on the road to success.

The sources of their help, the people who support them and their environment are often overlooked in these stories.

• Support Systems: Most successful people have had support from family, friends or business contacts.

  For example, the story of Steve Jobs tells only of his perseverance, but he could not have achieved his success in the early years of Apple without the technical support of his friends and the financial help of his partners.

• Education and Resources: Some people have access to a variety of opportunities on their path to success. Free courses, mentorships or financial support are an important part of this process. Therefore, to reduce success to individual effort is to miss the whole story.

So what can we do if we don't have such support systems?

TURNING OUR OWN LIFE CIRCUMSTANCES IN OUR FAVOR

Explore Resources: You can improve yourself by researching free trainings, communities and support groups in your area. Today, the internet is a great equalizer in access to information.

Develop Connections: Human connections are important not only for motivation but also for creating opportunities. Create a circle of positive and supportive people.

Make a Plan: It is not enough to just dream big; you can achieve it by making a step-by-step plan.

Discover Your Own Rhythm: Setting a pace that suits your circumstances is important for sustainable motivation.

FINDING STRENGTH AND RESILIENCE IN TIMES OF EMOTIONAL BREAKDOWN

Everyone goes through difficult times in life.

• Reframe Your Story: See your challenges as learning opportunities, not as failures.

  
  

• Focus on Small Victories: Even when you feel the worst, remember the small things you have accomplished in the past. This will help you rebuild your confidence.

  
  

• Establish a Routine: Establishing a daily routine, even in moments of depression, can create a driving force to get you going. For example, writing for 10 minutes every morning with a cup of coffee or going for a walk.

  
  

• Accept Your Feelings: Instead of suppressing the negative emotions you feel in the moment of a breakdown, accept them. Develop a calm approach by telling yourself, “I feel bad right now, but this feeling will pass”.

  
  

• Get Support: Do not hesitate to seek professional help. Therapists or support groups can help you build your resilience.

RESULT: CREATE YOUR OWN MOTIVATION

Motivation is not something to be taken from the outside; it is actually hidden within us. Popular content may excite you for a while, but true motivation starts with discovering your own values, goals and journey.

Remember, the journey of life is your story, not someone else's. You can be the one who turns the circumstances around you in your favor and manages to find strength even in the most difficult moments.

If you want to increase your motivation and bring order to your life, here are my book, movie and song recommendations:

THREE BOOKS FOR MOTIVATION AND CHANGE

1. “The Power of Habit” - Charles Duhigg

   A fascinating book about how our habits shape our lives and how we can transform them.

   
   

2. “What Does Man Live By?” - Tolstoy

   Questioning the meaning of life, this classic work offers readers a powerful spiritual motivation.

   
   

3. “Atomic Habits” - James Clear

   Small changes can lead to big results, and this book offers a step-by-step transformation plan.

FIVE INSPIRING MOVIES

1. The Pursuit of Happyness (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0454921/)

   This movie, starring Will Smith, is a moving portrayal of what it means not to give up despite adversity.

   
   

2. Forrest Gump (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0109830/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_7_nm_1_in_0_q_Forrest%2520Gump)

   The story of Forrest, who accepts life as it is and turns every situation into an opportunity, will inspire everyone.

   
   

3. Dead Poets Society (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0097165/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_7_nm_1_in_0_q_Dead%2520Poets%2520Society)

   Emphasizing the importance of following one's dreams and the power of individual freedom, this classic is a thought-provoking experience.

   
   

4. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0359950/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_7_nm_1_in_0_q_The%2520Secret%2520Life%2520of%2520Walter%2520Mitty)

   An excellent source of inspiration for those who want to make bold changes in their lives.

   
   

5. Rocky (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0075148/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_7_nm_1_in_0_q_Rocky)

   This legendary movie, which shows what is possible with perseverance and determination, is perfect for those looking for motivation.

TEN SONGS TO ENERGIZE YOUR LIFE

1. Eye of the Tiger - Survivor

   Rocky's unforgettable song will make you say “I can do it” in any situation.

   
   

2. Don't Stop Believin' - Journey

   A great motivator with hopeful lyrics.

   
   

3. Hall of Fame - The Script ft. will.i.am

   “You can be a legend”, this song reminds you of your dreams.

   
   

4. Stronger - Kanye West

   A work that makes you feel perseverance and determination with melodies.

   
   

5. Happy - Pharrell Williams

   This song, which represents happiness and positive energy, will be good for you on difficult days.

   
   

6. Lose Yourself - Eminem

   A motivational classic about seizing opportunities and being brave.

   
   

7. Unstoppable - Sia

   A song that gives the feeling of “nothing can stop me”.

   
   

8. Brave - Sara Bareilles

   Very impressive with lyrics that encourage courage.

   
   

9. We Are the Champions - Queen

   A legend with a sense of victory in every note.

   
   

10. On Top of the World - Imagine Dragons

    It's an energetic piece that motivates you to rise to the top in life.