Counterpoint: You Don’t Need Motivation
I often quote the famous Edward Deci definition of motivation that states it’s “the energy for action.” Desiring something but not having the energy to do it is a common problem for both kids and adults. So, it follows that most people always blame lacking motivation for their lack of energy.
Not having the motivation to do something is the perfect scapegoat, albeit a false one. The truth is, although motivation does provide “energy for action” it’s not the only source of energy one can tap into for action.
The spark that creates the energy for action we call motivation comes from the expectation of a reward or punishment. Whether that spark is a result of internal (intrinsic) motivation, or external (extrinsic) motivation doesn’t matter. The spark remains the same. What doesn’t remain the same is how one reacts when that spark doesn’t exist. When that spark doesn’t exist, some people wallow in a lazy funk and others don’t. Those who don’t have something else that’s greater than motivation. They have resilience.
Unquestionably, lacking motivation is an adverse circumstance. Moreover, resilience is the act of overcoming adversity. Therefore, those who can still muster the energy to act when they lack motivation are acting with resilience. What’s more, resilience is a skill. So, just as with all skills resilience requires practice.
So, the next time you or someone you know says they don’t have the motivation to act, tell yourself (or that other person) you don’t need motivation. Instead, you need to practice being resilient. Furthermore, practicing resilience in times when lacking motivation is the only adversity you are facing is a gift. Use that practice time wisely and it will pay off immensely in circumstances that are far more challenging in the future.