Many people say that motivational quotes and inspirational social media pictures are just fluff. Others love them, share them and find inspiration.
Where do I stand? Well, if you’ve been reading my stuff for awhile, then you know how I feel about these things. I think they can be inspiring and motivational… IF you actually use them to take action. What good does it do for me to share, post or create a motivational poster, feel good for 5 seconds, then turn around and not take those words to heart.
Whenever I come across these quotes, I stop and really think about how I can use it and what actions I can take because of it. A few quotes I love and how I apply them to my life, training and career.
“Have goals so big your problems pale in comparison.”
Sometimes when I think about all the obstacles, I get scared or nervous. How will I overcome or get better? But when I set my goals higher than that, bigger than that, those obstacles seem pretty small. And finding a way to overcome those seem much easier. It makes me a little more ready to tackle them.
“The ambitious are criticized by those that have given up.”
I think everyone has experienced something like this. Those that are “unsuccessful” seem to tear down those that are pushing towards their dreams. Do NOT let anyone else speak negatively about your goals. Find true mentors and people that can be honest about your goals. Perhaps they will steer you in a different direction, but they will never say it in a degrading or negative way.
“Don’t just make money, make a difference.”
This certainly holds true for me in the fitness and strength industry. With many internet fitness people making names for themselves relatively quickly, it’s become easier and easier to make a buck. Personally, I want to make a difference in people’s lives. It might mean less money and less “fame” but the emails I get from people saying that their lives were changed because of the help they received… that will always speak a thousand times louder. Find a way, no matter what your career, hobby or life, to make a difference.
“If you want to be in the 1% it’s simple, don’t do what the 99% do.”
I think this one speaks for itself. but seriously look at the top 1%. And not just in your field, but other areas as well. There is always something to take and learn from other careers.
“Never lower your target; increase your actions.”
This goes along with the first quote above. Sometimes when obstacles arise, it’s easy to lower your goals. I don’t think the 4 minute mile would’ve ever been broken if people didn’t keep that target in sight. I don’t think. Instead, keep doing more. Do more to get you just one more step.
“You will never be admired without being criticized first.”
What else do they say… “You know you’ve made it when you have enemies.” There will always be someone who will disagree with what you’re doing, saying or building. Many successful businessmen, activists and even athletes were highly criticized at first.
“The people that say, “your dreams are impossible ” have already quit on theirs.”
Again, this goes along with the second one. There is a lot of jealousy, bitterness and anger out there. Many people throw it on those that are moving towards something good. Learning how to ignore it, move past it and not let it affect your life is extremely important.
Motivation is great. But motivation without action means nothing.
