There are plenty of ways to motivate oneself: through money, sex, power, prestige and against negative repercussion, among others. We're motivated to not get speeding tickets because we know the consequences. We're motivated to make money to buy all the things we need to survive, and enjoy life. What if the objects of our motivations are more subtle than these things? What if they're more to determine our personal happiness and satisfaction, after the basic needs have been met?When we're motivated to do something (think exercising), our intention has to be there, as well as a clear sense of our values. I know that I desire good health (value), a better physique (value) and something to help me get out of my head.

If I can put those values into play, and visualize the outcome I'm seeking, the intention or will to follow through on it then gets produced.If I'm not clear on my values, then I don't have any foundation from which to get motivated. I may be exercising for no clear outcome, from which my chances of quitting would be high. If I don't have a clear outcome in my head (visualizing), I don't know what I'm working for, and my chances of quitting increase.Intention, values and visualizing are three pillars of motivation for me. Organization doesn't hurt either, as well as acquiring the resources I need to do what I have to do. Motivation can be the product of those three pillars, and can create a better, more functional system to get things done in my life.

What about you? How to do find the motivation you need to do the things in your life, or achieve the goals or dreams you have set out for yourself? Chime in below!

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