Wikipedia describes the word Motivation as: the activation of goal-oriented behavior. Motivation is said to be intrinsic or extrinsic. Intrinsic motivation refers to motivation that is driven by an interest or enjoyment in the task itself, and exists within the individual rather than relying on any external pressure. Extrinsic motivation comes from outside of the individual. Common extrinsic motivations are rewards like money and grades, coercion and threat of punishment. Competition is in general extrinsic because it encourages the performer to win and beat others.
Today I was telling someone about my goal to run a half marathon and my news was received with a soft chuckle followed by a rather hearty laugh. I was slightly taken aback...why was this person laughing at me? I don't think it's very funny. Once the laughter subsided the question was posed "Are you really going to stick with it this time?" I honestly didn't know how to answer that. I will be the first to admit I am famous for saying Monday I am going to start working out and eating healthy....umm pretty sure every monday I say this..it's kind of a habitual...almost like saying the word What? after someone tells me something. I was honestly embarrassed. This person had just called my bluff. I have rarely stuck with anything I have ever started..well besides Nursing and School. It made me start to think about my motivation to stick with running. What is it? Why am I doing it? What made this monday any different from any of the other ones? What is my MOTIVATION??
I honestly don't know! I like to run..that is the intrinsic part of it...but I don't like to hurt after...it actually kind of sucks. Has my motivation become extrinsic because I now have a challenge? Am I now running for the wrong reasons or does it matter because it is for a good cause...my brain is a tangled mess! What if noone runs with me..will I still do it or will I just forget about it like all the other times? What is my motivation? I do want to get into shape and change my life but it seems I always find an excuse not to. I honestly hope this blog helps me with this ...I hope I have people who will hold me accountable...and become my motivation to continue with what I am doing. I need to stick with something....for real this time!
I guess only time will really tell.....I need to find a little time to do some meditation and prayer and find out what my motivation is in life...maybe if I discover this ...I will finally be able to stick with something I say I am going to do.
Until later,
peace out little debbies!
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