Why Motivation Doesn’t Work Part 1

You’ve heard other coaches, authors and experts talk about the foundational pieces you need in order to have a successful and profitable business. You know you need a business plan. You know you need a vision.

You’ve bought their books and attended their seminars. You may have your very own shrine of these materials in your office. There are some great ones on my own shelves: Rich Dad, Poor Dad, Think and Grow Rich, The Purpose-Driven Life, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. Sometimes, even just looking at them up there gives you a little jolt of motivation. But, does it last, or are you still stuck?

I have seen the motivational business from both sides of the stage. As the owner of a highly regarded, successful personal and professional development company, I was a popular speaker. I attended just about every personal and professional development course known to man. Everyone, myself included, regarded me as an expert on time management, finance, sales, marketing, leadership and personal development.

Then, in 1994, I lost the business. It was a major shock; not only to me, but everyone who knew me.

You see, motivation can work, but it doesn’t last – it is unsustainable. That’s why I’ve dedicated my life since then to creating a sustainable system for a successful and profitable business.

Motivation fails because it’s inherently flawed. It’s based on fear; fear of losing something you already have, or fear of not getting something that you want.

I looked up motive in the dictionary, and it said motive comes from a place of need, desire or fear. So, you see, the whole premise of motivation is flawed. You have to hit bottom before you can turn around and become motivated.

Look at the word desire, as well. It comes from the Latin word desidus, which means moving away from the star. You are already a star. These things are sabotaging you.

No matter how motivated you are, you cannot progress past a certain point until you address your Unmet Need Disease.

If you’re looking for motivation look elsewhere. I’m not trying to motivate you; I’m trying to cure you. What I offer is a proven, sustainable model of success that will address your Unmet Needs Disease, spark your aspirations and give you the inspiration – not motivation – to put it to use.

This article was originally published in Curing The Unmet Needs Disease © Simon Reilly 2008