Vision is More Important Than Motivation

Saturday, 12 February 2011

Motivation is defined as the drive or incentive to do something. This is a necessary element in the process of creating long-lasting change. But, is it really what carries us through the ups and the downs? After going through the weight loss process, and maintaining it for many years, I've come to discover what many people who overcome addictions and negative patterns of behavior realize after conquering the first major challenge in the process; whether it be compulsive overeating, drinking, smoking, whatever. Desire or intent to do something is not the same as a clear vision about how that looks and feels in your mind, and why it's important to you, above all else to maintain as a focus and priority in your life.

It took me a year or two to really understand the difference between my motivation and my vision for my life. Then I spent another while really defining that vision for myself. But, from the start, it was never a number on the scale that I felt would liberate me from the self-destructive habits and lifestyle choices I kept repeating. It was going to be the hard work of going inward and getting in touch with myself that would bring my vision into reality. And, I'm happy to say, that I'm ALMOST there. There's always work to be done!