Brenda’s Blog – July 18, 2017
“Workout complete – great job!”
The bicycle in my community exercise room knows motivation techniques well. After 30 minutes of demanding rotations, it beeps then digitally scrolls these “atta-girl” words. Funny, but they keep me going when I get midway and begin rationalizing a shorter ride. My affirmation requirement is low, isn’t it? But it works.
The Apostle Paul talked of his desire to run the race well, receiving the victor’s crown. That reward is the “well done” commendation by our God. Certainly that is a worthy goal. The earthly workout is complete and there is a “great job” waiting.
Zig Ziglar used to say daily food and daily motivation are both necessary for successful living. We must fuel our bodies and spirits. The fumes of empty tanks, both physical and psychological, make poor substitutes. Just as cars out of gas cough and sputter, so do we when we run low on authentic motivation.
I have several friends who define their lives as “overwhelmed.” They feel the pressures of relationship tensions, financial shortfalls, life changes, and loneliness. It becomes difficult to operate smoothly… life sputters. During these periods, encouragement and inspiration provide impetus to get going.
My Dad’s wisdom influenced men and women for decades. His words spoken to others often helped me. But there were others directed to me which became engraved on my skull, ever ready for application. “Brenda, just start!” During a particularly difficult time he quietly listened to my moaning and responded with those words. Years later that motivation still works. Taking the first step or accomplishing the first task, (much like putting my feet on the pedals and rotating), kick start activity.
Consider carefully: What starts your engine? What keeps you moving? What motivation spurs you to activity? Be grateful for these prompts and techniques which enable us to live productively.