Something I hear people saying all the time is “I just can’t get myself motivated.”

Well here's a little secret -- motivation isn't a mystical force; it's a feeling we create with a thought.

Life is complicated. More than one thing can be true at the same time. But we tend to think a whole lot more about what feels good in the moment than what we truly want for our lives.

We spend a lot of time fixating on what we’re missing out on and the unfairness of it all. But we rarely consider the negative effects until they’ve gotten so bad they can no longer be ignored.

Take a moment to think about your favorite treat and how you feel afterward. Now, think about your biggest accomplishment and how that makes you feel.

There’s no comparison, right?

Our primitive brain leads us to prioritize pleasure above all else. It’s a survival mechanism. 

However, in today’s world of man-made abundant, concentrated pleasures, we’re more likely to find ourselves with way too much of a good thing.

Here’s what's really important to know …

Chasing instant gratification, whether it’s food, alcohol, spending, Netflexing or something else, can rob us of the motivation we need to take steps towards finding genuine joy in life—joy found in purpose, contribution, and friendship.

A little bit of discomfort is useful. It’s what motivated us to leave the comfort of the cave. It’s that bit of need that’s the mother of invention. Right?

So if you want to get yourself motivated, start by giving equal air time to the other side. It’s true that we enjoy eating whatever we want, but it’s also true that overconsumption never brings true happiness.

And, here’s where a coach can really help too.

They can show you that you can handle more than you imagine without needing food for comfort. They can help you see what’s difficult to see in yourself.

Ultimately, they can help you create more of what you really want for yourself.

You can certainly get there on your own. But it’s a whole lot easier and much more fun with a coach on your side.