I feel like playing a little game of compare and contrast. Let’s take motivation and goals – a couple of things that we think are good for us. But, are they? Let’s find something to compare.

Why don’t we start with motivation. We think that motivation is a great thing, right?  When we are motivated we are energized to do all the things we should do. Wait. Should? Yeah, should do. All those things that we don’t really want to do but someone or some thing has told us that we should do them. We don’t really want to, but motivation makes us do it anyway, right? Motivation uses guilt as punishment – that right there should be a clue! Motivation is like the speed of emotions. It’s false energy. It might be okay as a kick in the butt to get us started, but will it really get us through the long haul?

Let’s compare it with inspiration. Inspiration comes from inside you. Inspiration lets you know what you really do want, and lifts you up. There’s no punishment involved. The more you follow your inspiration, the clearer things become. And interestingly, the more unexpected forces seem to align to help you.

How about this one: Big-ass goal. That sounds awesome, doesn’t it? I’ve got this big goal, and I am going to work hard to achieve it. I’m going to make a plan and do all the steps and gather all my resources and, and, and.  A big goal requires a plan. Okay, I admit, there are times when this is absolutely the right thing to do – like when you’re a project manager. Most New Year’s resolutions are really big goals – and most people leave them on the side of the road right about now – or maybe a few miles back.

Okay, let’s compare goal to aspiration. A goal might sound more achievable, but is it really? An aspiration isn’t just about achieving, it’s more about being. It feels quite different. Loftier. Lighter. More fun. More light blue, maybe even turquoise. Aspire’s second definition is to ascend, to soar! Definitely the stuff of daydreams.

Daydreams just might inspire you to do what you want to do.

I know, I know. We aren’t going to throw motivation and goals away. So how about a compromise? Let’s add in equal doses of inspiration and aspiration.

Let’s breathe.

In the meantime, remember these things: You are loved. We are all loved. Let’s all be kind. And in all things – progress, not perfection!

Love and light,

Maggie

*****

I have created a short online course How to Choose a Color to Work With Right Now (yep, that’s the link) that explains the messages of 16 important colors. It pairs quite nicely with the book, The Rainbow Onion, if I do say so myself….mostly because it’s got visuals and audio.

I’m coaching again. If you are interested,  Set up a call here.  and we can see  if it’s a fit for us to work together.