Bank Your “Why’s” Now, So You Don’t Break Later
You need to take time to prepare your balance sheet for what is to come. Think of your motivation as an account that requires regular deposits. Start banking away all the reasons why you are chasing a dream or goal. Soon enough, obstacles will come to take withdrawals from your account, and if you haven’t banked enough high-value reasons, you’ll stall and fall short when faced with challenges.
Be aware that your perceptions can influence your balance sheet. Thoughts of future obstacles—real or imagined—can tip the balance in the wrong direction before the bank is even open for business. Negative thoughts are like invisible debts, quietly undermining your resolve.
To stay the course, stack up all the reasons why you can do a thing. Think of every success you’ve had, every lesson you’ve learned, and every person who believes in you as a deposit. Your drive needs this reservoir of motivation to draw from when the road gets rough. You’ll be unfazed when obstacles step onto your path because your account will be rich with purpose and determination.
Here’s how to start building your balance sheet of motivation:
Identify Your “Why’s.” List every reason that fuels your goal. Whether it’s for personal growth, to prove something to yourself, or to set an example for others, make sure it’s crystal clear. The more reasons, the better.
Regularly Revisit and Reassess. Just like a financial account, your motivational balance needs constant attention. Add new reasons, refine old ones, and keep track of what keeps you going.
Visualize Obstacles as Withdrawals. Every challenge you face will demand something from you. Expect it. See it coming. When you know what you’re up against, you’ll be prepared to counter it with your stacked-up reasons.
Stay Aware of Self-Sabotage. Doubt, fear, and anxiety are like hidden fees that slowly drain your account. Recognize when your thoughts are tipping the scales and adjust. Remind yourself of the reasons that outweigh those fears.
Balance sheets aren’t just for businesses—they’re for your dreams too. Build up your reserves, focus on your strengths, and keep stacking your reasons. When your motivations are solid, you’ll find yourself unshaken, no matter what obstacles try to take you down.
