GIVING YOUR BEST WITHOUT MOTIVATION? YES, THIS IS POSSIBLE! PART 1

“What does not destroy me strengthens me.”

(Friedrich Nietzsche)

Contrary to what many may think, being motivated is a challenging task. Self-motivation is complex, often filled with obstacles that seem almost insurmountable. The pursuit of motivation is a widely discussed and explored topic, and for good reason. But before we delve into this article, I would like to provide a brief context on the complexity underlying motivation.

Motivation, at its core, is an introspective force that drives us to act, pursue goals, and overcome challenges. However, personal achievement is often hindered by various factors, from dealing with external pressures to internal conflicts present in all of us. In other words, being motivated is much more of a neuropsychological matter than a simple opportunity that presents itself in our lives.

Neuroscience and behavioral psychology have deepened our understanding of the brain mechanisms governing motivation. Recent studies highlight the interconnection between neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin and motivation, revealing how these biochemical processes play a crucial role in our drive to achieve goals. Furthermore, understanding the neural networks associated with habit formation and emotional self-regulation provides valuable insights into how we can cultivate our ability to act without necessarily being motivated.

To put it more tangibly, imagine a professional who may be going through a whirlwind of personal problems or, despite adversities and the apparent lack of external stimulus, manages to maintain exceptional performance. This resilience is a deeply personal quality, subject to variations depending on circumstances and, therefore, temporary. It has to do not only with one’s own history but also with the needs that arise. By exploring our behavior in light of neuroscientific findings, we can unveil the brain patterns and psychological strategies that enable one to work at their best even in challenging situations.

By the way, here’s a tip if you want to delve deeper into the subject. In my research work over the past few years, I have dedicated space on my blog (https://www.marcellodesouza.com.br) to explore motivation from different perspectives. In these articles, I help understand the nuances of this concept, sharing insights, practical tips, and profound reflections on how to find and maintain motivation in various areas of life.

Now, for this article, I invite you to reflect on the intricate relationship between motivation and the ability to give our best in our professional life, exploring an unconventional approach that proposes a path to personal excellence. Let’s dive into this intriguing path, exploring the intricacies of the human mind and discovering how we can recreate a guiding light, even in the most challenging moments of our professional journey.

To start this journey, I often compare motivation to one of the feats of the Übermensch. In “Thus Spoke Zarathustra,” one of the most well-known passages deals with the parable of the Übermensch or the “Overman.” This fundamental concept in Nietzschean philosophy represents the idea of a human being who surpasses conventional limitations and creates their own values. In the work, Zarathustra talks about the transformation of man into Übermensch, a journey that requires self-knowledge, overcoming obstacles, and creating personal meaning for life, a glowing light in the darkness of demotivation. The Übermensch, this being who creates their own values, emerges as an inexhaustible force even on days when established values seem to lose their light. Compared to our personal journey, it does not shy away from obstacles but embraces them as steps for elevation, transforming the situation into an eternal flame fueled by resilience in the face of adversity.

It is worth noting that the Übermensch is like an artist shaping their own work, dancing with the uncertainty of the unknown. Accepting the unexpected becomes an endless source of inspiration, allowing us to overcome unforeseen surprises with creativity and resilience. While demotivation tries to cloud our horizon, the philosophy of Übermensch is a beacon that guides us through the darkness. In other words, giving our best is, or should be, a force to seek internal inspiration, transcend conventional norms, and forge a unique destiny, even when external conditions seem adverse.

I brought this Nietzschean reflection for you to understand that accepting the unknown and the unexpected is not just a lesson from Übermensch but an invitation to a creative dance with the circumstances of life. In this dance, we find the true essence of perseverance and the strength to achieve our best, regardless of external conditions.

“Whoever has a why can almost bear any how.”

(Friedrich Nietzsche)

So, with this reflective introduction, let’s now understand that despite self-motivation being one of the main characteristics of successful professionals, distinguishing them from others, the question arises: How to proceed when there is no longer motivation?

Unveiling Strategies to Fuel Our Internal Flame

As seen, motivation is a deeply personal and temporary experience. What drives one individual may not resonate the same way for another. The truth is that some people seem to possess a naturally more intense perseverance than others. However, over more than a decade dedicated to research on human motivation, several strategies have emerged that show promise for most people. Whether attempting to master a new language, seeking new professional horizons, or embarking on challenging ventures, these strategies offer a potent guide.

If, at any point, you have found yourself facing procrastination or a lack of commitment, a common experience for virtually all of us at various points in life, allow me to encourage you to continue reading. From this point on, we will explore four carefully crafted proposals to illuminate the path ahead.

1st. Goals Instead of Tasks

Perhaps the main reflection to start this article is precisely on the importance of goals. Setting goals is crucial to achieve significant accomplishments in various areas of life. These goals act as compasses, providing a clear direction to guide our actions and decisions. Furthermore, they represent a constant source of power to act, sustaining focus and determination in the face of challenges. The definition of specific goals contributes to effectiveness by directing efforts in a focused manner, increasing productivity, and allowing measurable progress assessments with flexibility for adjustments when necessary.

In the behavioral realm, achieving goals, even small ones, strengthens self-confidence and elevates self-esteem, validating individual potential and capability. Additionally, the necessary planning to establish goals promotes organization, while challenging goals drive personal development.

Avoiding the dispersion of time and resources in unnecessary activities, goals ensure that efforts are directed to the right areas. They provide a sense of purpose and meaning in life, answering the crucial question: “Where am I going and why?”. Moreover, goals encourage resilience, acting as motivational anchors in the face of challenges. In summary, having goals is fundamental to guide, motivate, evaluate, and achieve progress in different aspects of life, serving as the foundation for personal and professional growth.

Observing, especially in businesses, employees who set goals achieve superior results. Similarly, individuals seeking to improve their quality of life reach a higher level of physical fitness by setting goals for daily exercises or even by taking care of their diet, for example.

Abstract ambitions, such as “thinking positively solves all problems instantly,” prove to be much less effective and do not reflect the complexity of life and personal development. Contrary to concrete objectives, like achieving a better income for the family through the improvement of specific knowledge or learning another language to pursue opportunities in other countries, specific goals provide more tangible and motivating results.

The same applies to innovative projects within an organization involving clear and measurable goals. In a business environment, for instance, a project that sets specific goals, such as increasing operational efficiency by X percent or developing a new functionality to meet customer needs, has a higher chance of success than one based on vague ambitions. The same principle applies to the pursuit of self-improvement. Setting concrete goals, like completing a specific course, acquiring a new skill within a certain period, or reaching a professional milestone, provides a clear and measurable direction.

The definition of tangible goals not only guides the way but also creates a sense of accomplishment as each objective is achieved. This contributes to positive reinforcement in finding enough strength to deal with the issue, creating an upward cycle of progress and continuous effort. Unlike abstract ambitions, which may seem vague and intangible, specific goals offer a solid framework for development and personal success.

It is worth noting that there is a close relationship between goals and purpose, amplifying the will to act, as it represents something intrinsically meaningful and valuable. This is fundamental for any goal you set for yourself or agree with, with specificity crucial to align goals with a clear purpose. When our goals are aligned with their deeper purpose, they cease to be simple tasks to be fulfilled, transforming into tangible expressions of what is truly meaningful to you.

This synergistic connection between goals and purpose is a two-way street. While goals provide a concrete and measurable framework to direct your actions, purpose acts as the underlying motivating force. It offers a substantial “why” that propels each step toward goal achievement.

By setting goals aligned with your purpose, you build a path that not only guides but also gives meaning to your journey. Each achievement becomes a milestone in fulfilling a broader purpose, providing a lasting sense of fulfillment. Therefore, when setting goals, always remember to link them to the purpose, transforming specific objectives into a meaningful narrative that transcends simple task fulfillment. In this way, you not only reach goals but also nurture a deeper connection with the driving purpose, empowerment, and intrinsic resilience rather than extrinsic issues.

Every activity becomes intrinsically potentiated when it is an end in itself, leading to lasting achievements and success. My research indicates that intrinsic motives portend more significant achievements and success than extrinsic ones, as they represent something truly belonging of meaning and value. It is crucial to understand that goals are not simple points of arrival but an integral part of a broader path—a journey that intrinsically connects to the desired destination.

This relationship between goals and purpose goes beyond a superficial association; it is a deep connection between what we seek to achieve and the essence of what we value. Consider, for example, a professional with the purpose of excelling in their career and contributing significantly to their field; their specific goals, such as obtaining certification, leading a challenging project, and developing leadership skills, are intrinsic elements of their broader goal.

Each step toward these goals is not just a task accomplishment; it is significant progress toward something they deeply value. This interconnection between goals and purpose not only strengthens our objectives but also elevates the activity itself to a status of reward. When we achieve goals aligned with our purpose, satisfaction is not just momentary; it is lasting, driving us to constantly seek new challenges.

In this context, we realize that goals are always above motivation. They transcend the mere pursuit of external incentives, becoming the essence for everything that truly matters. Goals are not just means to an end but the tangible expression of a purpose that gives meaning to the journey. They are rooted in the pursuit of something that, in itself, is already a reward.

In this way, achieving these goals not only leads to tangible progress in the career but also nurtures a deeper connection with the underlying purpose of excelling and contributing significantly to the professional field. If the professional viewed these goals merely as tasks, without connecting with the broader purpose, several risks and challenges could arise:

• Lack of Empowerment: If goals are seen only as tasks to be completed, without a deep connection to the purpose, the sense of necessity and reasons may be compromised. This means that the professional may lose enthusiasm along the way, as tasks can become monotonous and devoid of personal meaning.

• Resilience in the Face of Challenges: When challenges arise, a solid connection to the purpose can serve as a motivational anchor. If goals are seen only as tasks, resilience in the face of difficulties may be compromised, as there is no deep “why” to overcome obstacles.

• Feeling of Emptiness: Fulfilling tasks can lead to a feeling of emptiness if they are not connected to a higher purpose. The professional may achieve goals but still feel unsatisfied or question the meaning of their efforts.

• Loss of Focus: By treating goals as simple tasks, there is a higher likelihood of losing focus on the broader purpose. This can lead to choices less aligned with long-term career goals.

To avoid any doubts, I reinforce the idea that by connecting goals with purpose, the professional gains a more holistic and meaningful perspective. Each step toward a specific goal is not just a task to be completed but a valuable contribution to something they deeply value in their career. This approach not only increases the intrinsic power to act, but also provides a deeper sense of accomplishment and meaning with each achievement.

In an ideal scenario, we would all seek roles and professional environments that we genuinely enjoy, ensuring a high level of commitment. However, we know that reality does not always allow for such exclusive choices. In my research, most respondents emphasized the vital importance of maintaining strong relationships with colleagues and managers in their current positions.

It is crucial to recognize that often the relevance of these elements for professional success goes beyond the current position. Company morale, for example, proved decisive in past professional experiences, even when respondents initially did not perceive or anticipate such importance for the future. This realization reinforces the idea that intrinsic power to act plays a significant role when choosing a new job or project. Remembering how these factors positively impacted previous experiences can be crucial in guiding future choices. Therefore, when seeking new opportunities, considering the alignment between your personal goals, values, and the underlying purpose of the work can be a fundamental differentiator for long-term success.

In concluding this chapter, in situations where the pursuit of an ideal job or project seems impractical, a reality for many of us, the strategy lies in directing our attention to aspects of the work that provide greater satisfaction. Reflecting deeply on how the activity’s accomplishment can be enjoyable becomes essential. This may include the opportunity to demonstrate your skills to company leaders, develop meaningful internal connections, or create value for customers. Additionally, strategically balancing the effort dedicated to more challenging tasks and activities that provide personal gratification, such as listening to music during breaks or less critical moments, or sharing a coffee with colleagues, taking a short walk, or practicing stretching exercises during breaks or less critical moments. This approach not only makes the journey more bearable but also emphasizes the importance of finding pleasure in various facets of work, establishing a meaningful balance between daily demands and rewarding elements that give meaning to the professional path.

2º. Recognize Rewards That Truly Make Sense

Throughout our professional journey, we inevitably encounter challenges and tasks that may seem daunting. In these moments, exploring external incentives in the short and medium term, complementing the rewards offered by the company, can be a valuable strategy. The idea of promising yourself a vacation after completing a project or rewarding yourself for achieving wellness goals are valid strategies. However, it is crucial to be attentive to avoid pitfalls related to inappropriate incentives.

A common mistake lies in rewarding oneself for the quantity of tasks completed, neglecting the quality of performance. For example, a designer who rewards themselves for finishing a specific project quickly may inadvertently become more susceptible to errors. Similarly, a doctor focused solely on maximizing the number of appointments, at the expense of the quality of care, will likely face challenges related to issues that can harm the patient irreversibly. Another frequent trap is choosing rewards that undermine the progress made. If someone on a weight loss plan grants themselves rewards like long days of rest, sedentary activities, they may compromise some of the efforts made. Similarly, if the reward for an outstanding workweek is permission to slow down the pace the following week, this pattern can negatively impact the positive impression left.

Studies in behavioral psychology and neuroscience emphasize the importance of balance in rewards. Achieving a goal can sometimes lead people to give in to temptation, resulting in setbacks. Therefore, when choosing rewards, it is crucial to align them not only with task completion but also with continuous progress toward objectives. Discovering rewards that are intrinsically connected to your purpose and progress not only enhances motivation but also contributes to consistent and meaningful development in your professional journey.

By strategically integrating rewards aligned with objectives, we set off a complex series of neurochemical events that resonate deeply in the intricate neural network of the human mind. The neuroscience perspective offers a fascinating insight into how these practices influence the release of crucial neurotransmitters, including dopamine and serotonin, which play fundamental roles in mood regulation, intrinsic motivation, and satisfaction.

It is important to remember, as I have explained in various published articles, that dopamine, often dubbed the “reward molecule,” is released in the brain in response to stimuli indicating the attainment or anticipation of a reward. When goals are achieved, and rewards are perceived as aligned with the efforts exerted, dopamine levels increase, generating a sense of pleasure and reinforcing neural connections associated with positive behavior. This dopaminergic activation not only intensifies motivation to repeat actions that led to the reward but also contributes to forming memories associated with success, thus consolidating the positive experience.

In turn, serotonin, known for its role in mood and well-being regulation, also comes into play. Aligning rewards with objectives not only triggers the release of dopamine but also fosters a mental environment conducive to emotional stability, facilitated by serotonin regulation. This stability not only enhances resilience in the face of challenges but also contributes to a more balanced mental state throughout the goal pursuit process.

The dynamic interaction of these neurotransmitters is not limited to specific moments of reward but continually shapes the structure and function of the central nervous system. The creation of strengthened neural circuits is an intriguing phenomenon. Each time a reward is associated with goal achievement, synaptic remodeling occurs, strengthening connections between the involved neurons. This synaptic plasticity, essentially the brain’s ability to adapt and learn, creates neural pathways that make the journey toward goals more efficient and paradoxically more emotionally rewarding.

Understanding that strategically linking rewards to goal achievement is not only shaping conscious behaviors but also sculpting neural activation patterns that form the basis of our motivation and satisfaction. The human mind, with its complexity and plasticity, responds not only to the end result but to every step of the process, thus transforming the professional career into an experience rich in meaning and continuous growth.

A fascinating example reveals that most people demonstrate greater dedication when facing the uncertainty of a reward compared to a guaranteed reward. In experimental situations, a more robust investment of effort, time, and resources was observed when there is an uncertain chance of receiving $1000 or $500 (50% probability) compared to a certain reward of $450 (100% probability).

Understanding that uncertainty about the reward can have a significant impact on people’s motivation. The idea is that the prospect of an uncertain reward creates an element of challenge and excitement, leading people to invest more effort in pursuing the goal, as uncertainty increases the perceived value of the potential reward. This behavior highlights the complexity of human motivations and how psychological factors, such as aversion to loss in uncertainty, can influence our decisions and levels of dedication. It is essential to recognize that motivation can often be volatile and influenced by various external and internal factors. Despite this, it is possible to adopt strategies and practices that allow achieving excellent performance even when motivation is lacking.

The above example about the uncertainty of rewards highlights that, in some situations, people show greater dedication when facing uncertainty, even compared to a guaranteed reward. This suggests that motivation is not only determined by the assurance of positive results but also by the inherent excitement and challenge of the process.

Therefore, we can argue that giving your best without constant motivation is possible by cultivating practices that go beyond momentary motivation. Strategies such as linking rewards to continuous progress, aligning goals with personal purpose, and developing conscious habits are ways to build a path to success even when motivation fluctuates. Thus, understand that the ability to give your best without relying solely on motivation is a valuable skill that involves understanding the complexity of human motivation and adopting approaches that allow for maximum performance even in challenging moments.

The application of strategies to maintain performance and commitment in the professional environment, even in times of low motivation, is challenging but can be approached in creative ways. An interesting approach is to turn goal achievement into a stimulating challenge, resembling a “game.” The presence of two envelopes on the table, each containing different rewards, can add a layer of excitement and surprise. The random choice of an envelope upon completing a task not only introduces playful elements into daily life but also serves as a catalyst for deeper and more enthusiastic commitment to professional responsibilities.

Another aspect explored is the aversion to loss, where people often strive harder to avoid losses than to pursue equivalent gains. A study from the University of Pennsylvania illustrates this, where participants had a goal of achieving seven thousand steps per day over six months. Those facing a penalty of $1.40 per day for not reaching the goal exceeded the success frequency by 50% compared to those receiving an equivalent reward. A tool like StickK.com, developed by economists at Yale University, can be helpful. It allows registering goals, creating commitment contracts with penalties for non-compliance, and monitoring progress.

Most importantly, by incorporating neuroscientific elements into the approach to rewards, we not only stimulate positive behaviors but also strengthen the neuronal foundation that supports motivation and the sense of achievement. Recognizing and embracing rewards that transcend the surface of immediate achievement makes the professional journey not only productive but also rewarding and meaningful.

As we explore the complex relationship between motivation and the ability to give our best, we delve into the intricacies of the human mind, inspired by Nietzsche’s Übermensch philosophy. We discover that, more than a quest for external stimuli, true strength lies in the interconnection between goals and purpose, a profound path that transcends momentary motivation.

In this first part, we highlighted the crucial importance of establishing tangible goals, intrinsically connected to purpose, as a path to lasting personal and professional development. We reflected on how specific goals, when aligned with the broader purpose, become tangible expressions of what is truly meaningful to us.

However, this journey is far from over. I invite you to move forward, as in the second part of this article, we will explore additional strategies and valuable insights to continually fuel the internal flame, even when motivation seems to fade. We will uncover secrets that transcend the temporal limitations of motivation and reveal the intrinsic power that each of us possesses to overcome challenges and achieve excellence.

Get ready for a continuation full of discoveries, where we will explore new horizons of self-motivation. The second part of this article awaits you, full of insights that will guide you toward a journey of lasting achievements. Stay with us on this exploration of human potential, where commitment and resilience become pillars to reach the best that each of us has to offer. Until next time!

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Hello, I’m Marcello de Souza! I started my career in 1997 as a leader and manager in a large IT and Telecommunications company. Since then, I have been involved in important projects structuring, implementing, and optimizing telecommunications networks in Brazil. Restless and passionate about the psychology of behavior and social dynamics. In 2008, I decided to dive into the universe of the human mind.

Since then, I have become a professional passionate about unraveling the secrets of human behavior and catalyzing positive changes in individuals and organizations. A Ph.D. in Social Psychology, with over 25 years of experience in Cognitive Behavioral and Organizational Human Development. With a diversified career, I highlight my role as:

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