The problem with motivation

Football coaches are master motivators. They can inspire, motivate, and get adrenaline pumping. Unfortunately, as the coach knows, the dose needs to be repeated at quarter time and half time. The benefits tend to be short lived.

Psychological tips for motivation. Clinical psychologists and sports psychologists have developed evidence based methods for making lasting improvements with motivation. Try this example.

Four steps to lasting motivation

1. First select a goal. This method works best if you have a particular goal in mind. It could be a goal you have thought about previously or a new one. Try to pin yourself down to one clear objective you want.
   
   
2. As you think about your goal, ask yourself what kinds of factors your success will depend on. Try to identify what variables will influence the result. What factors will help you, and what factors might get in the way?

   Did you know..

   People with an external locus of control believe most of their successes are governed by uncontrollable, external factors like luck, fate, other people, or the economy. ‘Externals’ believe their situation is largely determined by things outside their control.

   In contrast, people with an internal locus of control believe their outcomes are determined by internal, or personal factors such as their own efforts, preparation, ability, desire and commitment.

   Research shows some people are very external in their worldview, some very internal, with the rest of us are somewhere in the middle. This is a relatively stable characteristic that helps define you as an individual.

   So what are you? Are you an internal or an external? Know thyself!

3. Does it matter?
   Most importantly, research indicates ‘internals’ score better on academic achievement, mental and physical wellbeing, financial security, and general happiness. It seems people tend to be more motivated about life and invest more effort when they recognise they can influence what happens to them. They believe their efforts make a difference. In contrast, if you assume the situation is out of your hands you tend to give up easily. Your belief system tells you “Nothing I do matters so why bother?”

   In reality there is always a mixture of internal and external factors impacting on your results. But we are creatures of habit. We have a favourite way of looking at life and this habit can either help you or defeat you.

4. It is possible to change this habit.
   With a bit of effort it is not difficult to train your brain to become more ‘internal’. People who work at this can become more effective in their personal and professional lives.

   Go back to your goal at step one. List as many things you can think of that could influence your success. Every time you notice yourself dwelling on potential external factors, bring your attention back to the internal ones. No matter how much the role of other people, or the economy, or luck might play a part, stay focussed on the internal factors like your own determination, planning, effort, and skill.

   You can cheat by writing down the internal factors and using them like affirmations. Anytime you notice a drop in your motivation or confidence, go back to your affirmations. Allow this new focus to become increasingly automatic. Practise.

Final thought
Remember the words of legendary football coach Ron Barrassi......

“If it’s to be, it’s up to me!”

Another final thought
It is not difficult to figure out if a person's locus of control is internal or external. You just listen to how they talk about outcomes and success. Knowing if a person is internal or external may influence who you give an important task to, who you employ or go into business with, or who to develop a relationship with etc. Shhhh! It's a secret!