Motivation! I have been thinking a lot lately about motivation. What is motivation? What is MY motivation? Even my editor’s column tag line is Who is This Guy? (and WHY is He doing this?), so it would seem that I am always questioning my motivation.
Interestingly, this was the topic of a group that I ran with my clients recently. We defined a motive as something, a need or desire, that causes a person to act. In the case of my clients, the motive we discussed was getting high (and getting sober), but in thinking about it, I wondered what is my motive for running, especially as I am getting older.
If I were looking for a job, one of the questions I might be asked in an interview would be “What is your motive for working here?” To begin with I would be looking for a job that would challenge me to grow in my career. (Running challenges me to grow both physically and mentally) I would also be looking for a good relationship with coworkers. (With running I get a chance to network with a wide variety of interesting people) In a job I would also be looking for a good health care package. (The health benefits of running are well documented – see my blood pressure lower) In these times of high gas prices (although they are slowly going down), I might be looking for a job that is closer to my home. (The nearest run is just outside my door)
We also discussed in my group that motivation can change over time. This has been the case with my running (as it probably has been for others). Winning races and running fast times are less of a priority (of course, I say this to make myself feel better because the reality is that I may never win another race, and it is too much work to run any faster than I already do). So, my priority today is to continue to enjoy the sport for the health benefits, the friendships I gain, and the challenges I face. I also run because it is a huge part of who I am. I run, therefore I am (thinking is sooo overrated). That is my motivation.